She Strengthens

The Hidden Dangers Lurking in Your Gym

When you hit the gym, you’re probably thinking about getting fit, not getting sick. But the truth is, gyms can be breeding grounds for all sorts of germs, fungi, and viruses just waiting to ruin your workout high. From the locker room to the treadmill, every surface and piece of equipment is a potential petri dish for infection.

Fungal Infections: The Uninvited Guests

Ringworm, athlete’s foot, and skin yeast are just a few of the fungal infections you can pick up at the gym. These nasty critters thrive in sweaty, moist environments, making the gym a perfect storm for infection.

• Ringworm, despite its name, is a fungus that appears on the skin in a ring shape. It’s highly contagious and can be caught from sharing towels or bed sheets with someone who has the fungus, or even from snuggling up to your pup if they’ve been exposed.
• Athlete’s foot is another common fungal infection that can be caught from walking barefoot in communal areas or wearing wet socks.
• Skin yeast, while not contagious or dangerous, can cause light-colored spots on the skin and itchiness.

To avoid these fungal infections, make sure to disinfect surfaces and equipment with Clorox wipes, tea tree oil, or witch hazel. Wear shoes in communal areas, wash and dry your feet regularly, and change your socks after exercise.

Bacterial Infections: The Silent Threat

Staph, MRSA, and impetigo are just a few of the bacterial infections that can be lurking in your gym. These bacteria can cause painful, pus-filled infections on the skin, and can be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or people.

• Staph is one of the most common bacteria found in gyms, and can cause infections ranging from mild to severe.
• MRSA is a type of staph that’s resistant to antibiotics, making it a more serious threat.
• Impetigo is a superficial skin infection caused by staph or strep bacteria, and can be spread through direct contact or shared equipment.

To avoid bacterial infections, wash your hands regularly, use an alcohol-based sanitizer, and cover open cuts or sores. Wipe down equipment with antiseptic wipes, and avoid sharing towels or personal items.

Viral Infections: The Unwelcome Visitors

Herpes and plantar warts are two viral infections that can be caught at the gym. While rare, they can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or contaminated surfaces.

• Herpes is a highly contagious virus that can cause painful blisters on the skin.
• Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear on the soles of the feet.

To avoid viral infections, avoid contact with anyone’s visible sores, and avoid sharing water bottles. Wear shoes in communal areas, and wash your hands regularly.

Staying Safe at the Gym

So, how can you avoid these infections and stay safe at the gym? Here are some expert tips:

• Disinfect surfaces and equipment regularly
• Wear shoes in communal areas
• Wash and dry your feet regularly
• Change your socks after exercise
• Avoid sharing towels or personal items
• Wash your hands regularly
• Use an alcohol-based sanitizer
• Cover open cuts or sores
• Avoid contact with anyone’s visible sores
• Wear flip-flops in the shower

By following these simple tips, you can reduce your risk of infection and stay healthy at the gym. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!