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| Monday, July 26, 2010 |
| Gym Germs |
If you belong to or have ever gone to a gym, you know there are a lot of germs there! There are so many different people touching the machines and spreading their germs that it is very easy to pick something up if you aren’t careful. People are sneezing, sniffling and sweating all around you. People share machines, mats and water fountains. Many gyms have hot tubs, pools, saunas and showers which are the perfect places for germs to grow. Come to think of it, it’s a wonder anyone goes there at all. Don’t get me wrong, I love the gym and go every day, but I’m always telling my friends and clients to be careful because it’s very easy to pick up germs while you are there.
There are some common conditions that you should be aware of if you frequent a gym, studio or fitness center:
- Ringworm is very common in gyms. Ringworm can be picked up from a shared yoga mat, fitness ball or towel. It causes red, scaly circles on your body and can spread and become itchy. You can pass it to your family members once you have it.
- Staph infections are also quite common in gyms. You can get a staph infection by sharing machines, mats, etc and coming in contact with someone’s sweat they left behind. A staph infection can usually be treated with antibiotics. However, there is a staph infection called MRSA that is resistant to antibiotics and can cause you to get very ill.
- In the shower or locker room, there is a very high risk for getting athletes foot (tinea pedis). This is a fungal infection that causes blisters, itching and burning sensations on the feet.
- It is also easy to catch flu or strep germs at the gym.
So what should you do to avoid all these illnesses? Well, there are some easy steps you can take to protect yourself from germs while at the gym:
- Wash your hands with warm water and soap before and after your workout. It sounds basic but it really is your best defense.
- Use hand sanitizer if you cannot wash your hands before leaving the gym. Wash your hands as soon as you get home.
- Use your towel. Don’t let your skin come in contact with equipment. Use your towel as a barrier when you sit on machines and WASH IT DAILY. Don’t use the same towel more than one day.
- Wipe down machines before you use them. Most gyms have disinfectant spray. Use it on treadmills, bikes, etc before and after you use them.
- Get your own mat. Don’t share a mat with anyone. Many germs can be left behind on a mat. If you must share a mat, wipe it down with disinfectant first.
- Always wear shoes or socks, especially in the locker room and shower. Damp areas are a perfect environment for germs to grow.
- Avoid the gym water fountain! BYOW! Bring your own water.
- Shower as soon as possible after leaving the gym.
These steps may sound basic but they work. Incorporate them and keep yourself healthy and fit!
- Jennifer
If you like this article, you might also enjoy…
Sensei Talks: Go GREEN With Your Fitness Program
Sensei Talks: Get a Great Workout at Home!
Labels: Fitness, Health, Jennifer
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posted by My Sensei @ Monday, July 26, 2010   |
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| 1 Comments: |
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I don't shower at the gym! Thank goodness!
I bring a large towel for the bench, machines, mat etc. & a smaller separate one for my face. I also always know which side of the towel hits the bench, machine mat etc.. so it does not hit my bod AND I wipe down everything before using it! :-)
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I don't shower at the gym! Thank goodness!
I bring a large towel for the bench, machines, mat etc. & a smaller separate one for my face. I also always know which side of the towel hits the bench, machine mat etc.. so it does not hit my bod AND I wipe down everything before using it! :-)