Stay Germ Free At The Gym

You may notice your gym is a little more crowded than usual at this time of year thanks to the millions of people who made a New Year’s resolution to finally get healthy and in shape and this year. Ironically, this place that can help in achieving a more health conscious lifestyle can also be a breading ground for infectious germs and bacteria – especially when people are packing onto the machines during the winter months. The warm and moist conditions found in a gym make it easy for germs and fungi to spread and grow. I personally have never given it much thought until a close friend of mine broke out during an allergic reaction to someone else’s sweat at the gym. Not exactly something you want to think about when you’re trying to stay true to your weight loss goals, but her experience is not as rare as you might think.

Once I got over the idea of steering clear of the gym altogether, I realized that taking proper precautions was all that really needed to be done. Although most gyms require members to wipe down their machines after use, many either neglect this golden rule or just forget to do so. To be on the safe side, take advantage of the sanitary wipes or sprays the gym provides to wipe down the machine you are about to use. I usually bring my own sanitary wipes to the gym just in case they are not readily available. Furthermore, if you choose a machine or bench that requires you to sit or lie down, place a clean towel down rather then sitting directly on it. If you take part in a yoga class, bring your own mat.

After your workout, make sure to immediately wash your hands. Also, don’t forget to wash any gym bags and water bottles regularly to help further stop the spread of germs in your car or home. And finally, make a huge effort to change and shower after your workout. If you choose to shower at the gym, never do so without shower sandals on.

With these tips, I no longer use my friends experience as an excuse to stay away from the gym. By taking these precautionary steps you too can work out without worry and continue to stay fit and healthy… emphasis on healthy.

Written by Samantha Belli. This design-obsessed, Northern California native is currently residing in the Arizona desert after receiving her degree in, of all things, design. As a recent grad, she struggles to find a balance between her love for beauty products, architecture and anything in shades of red.