Avoiding Germs at the Gym
Germs
are able to survive on surfaces from one minute to months at a time.
Dumbbells, free weight benches, cardio machines, and locker rooms are
where the viruses are concentrated more heavily. One study reported
that 63% of the gym equipment was covered with rhino virus which is the
cause of the common cold1.
Some of the most common bacterias that lurk in the gym are E.coli, MRSA
(known as staph), HPV, Influenza, and Streptococcal bacteria. So how do
you protect yourself from harmful bacteria, fungus, and viruses?
Make
sure to spray it down thoroughly before and after using a machine. Most
gyms have disinfectant available throughout the day. Be sure to let it
sit for a couple of minutes before wiping it off with a towel. It is
vital that you avoid touching your face or rubbing your eyes while in
contact with equipment. Cover any cuts or lesions with bandages that
will guard against germs and other infections. Upon leaving the gym wash
your hands with soap and water or with hand sanitizer if available.
Showering immediately after a workout is important and decreases the
chances of coming down with any infections. The benefits you receive
from exercising exceed the risks, so just be cautious, follow the
preventions, and continue living that healthy lifestyle!
1Schwecherl, L. (2001, December 28). Are Germs at the Gym Making You Sick? Retrieved September 20, 2014, from http://greatist.com/fitness/are-germs-gym-making-you-sick
1Schwecherl, L. (2001, December 28). Are Germs at the Gym Making You Sick? Retrieved September 20, 2014, from http://greatist.com/fitness/are-germs-gym-making-you-sick
2Johnson,
T. (2011, August 1). Stay healthy and infection-free at the gym.
Retrieved September 20, 2014, from
http://thenationshealth.aphapublications.org/content/41/6/32.full
The one thing most people don't think of in a gym is germs. The facility's staff should be on an around the clock cleaning schedule but it is always best to clean your equipment yourself just to be safe.
ReplyDeleteI agree, most people who are really sweaty just get off the machine that they are using and walk away without cleaning it. It is disgusting and I see how easy it is to spread germs. Everyone who is in the gym should always clean the machine or weights they are about to use!!
DeleteEspecially at the gym, I know I touch my face quite often wiping away sweat. So I can see how it would be easy to pick up germs or bacteria. I know I will pay more attention from now on.
ReplyDeleteMost gyms do have disinfectant wipes. I will definitely pay closer attention and use them from now on.
ReplyDeleteI never even thought about the amount of germs at the gym, now realizing how many germs there are on all the equipment and how often I touch my face I will be more precocious.
ReplyDelete