Working out is important. Not only does it help you get yourself in shape, but it just feels good, right? But all that sweat and effort doesn’t always translate to wonderful hygiene, and as you workout it’s likely you’ll generate plenty of sweat, grime, and more. And if you’re creating ‘gym stank’, you know that others in there are doing the same thing.
So what can you do about it? One thing that’s worth doing is knowing what the 5 dirtiest spots in your gym are. Knowing this can help you avoid germs, staph, and other communicable illnesses that can be spread in the gym.
With that in mind, here’s a quick look at 5 of the dirtiest spots in your gym.
- Dumbbells and Free Weights – You probably weren’t expecting this one, huh? But the reality is that you should think about the same rules used in hospital hygiene – anywhere that is commonly touched by multiple hands will mean increased chance of disease transmission.
- Mats – Gym mats can play host to a wide range of infections, primarily ringworm. Other illnesses can be spread through them as well.
- Shower/Locker Room Floor – After the common cold, Athlete’s Foot is the most common infection you can get from the gym. This fungus is easily spread, and can create serious problems for anyone who encounters it.
- The Water Fountain – Yep. The wet areas in your gym are usually the ones that are most commonly host to germs, so be wary of that water fountain.
- Shared Towels – This one is particularly dangerous and one of the main causes for MRSA to spread within the gym. Shared towels can quickly transmit staph, so it’s worth paying attention to them and avoiding their use.
So how can you go about improving your health and safety at the gym? Primarily, common sense prevails. Try to bring your own mat and towels, use sanitizing wipes before handling weights, and don’t go anywhere barefoot. Those simple tips can help.
The right clothing can help, too. And Fit Scrubs are perfect for heading right from your shift to the gym. The antimicrobial fabric will help wick away sweat and help keep you safer and fresher while working out. Staying vigilant is the key to staying healthy.