Gym Hygiene: Pump Up Your Muscles and Not Germs

Don't skip hygiene, make it your fitness regime. Make your next gym session infection free.

Highlights:

Gym hygiene is an important aspect to consider for maintaining good health while working out
Common skin infections like impetigo, ringworm, and folliculitis can be contracted at the gym through physical contact or touching contaminated surfaces
Following hygiene practices such as not sharing personal belongings, avoiding walking barefoot, and cleaning equipment can help prevent the spread of infections at the gym

Staying healthy at the gym is important, but what about staying hygienic?

Gyms are popular spots for fitness enthusiasts, and the demand for gyms is increasing due to growing awareness of the health risks associated with an unhealthy lifestyle. However, it's worth considering the issue of gym hygiene, especially since multiple people may be using the same equipment within a short period of time.

Infections that one can Contract in the Gym

Here are some common skin infections that can be contracted at the gym:

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‘Gym hygiene is your secret weapon for a healthier you. So, make sure to not catch those germs in your next gym session. #gym #gymhygiene’

Impetigo

: This bacterial infection starts as a red and itchy spot, which later oozes and forms a yellow scab. It spreads through physical contact from an infected person to a healthy individual.

Ringworm

: Caused by fungi, ringworm spreads through touching infected areas or coming into contact with an infected person. It appears as a red, scaly, ring-shaped infection that is highly itchy and stings.

Folliculitis

: This bacterial skin infection resembles red and itchy acne. It's important not to scratch these, as scratching can cause the infection to spread across the body, making it more challenging to treat and potentially leading to permanent scars.

Athlete's Foot

: This common fungal infection, also known as Tinea pedis, affects the feet and causes a burning sensation. Avoid scratching your feet with your hands to prevent the spreading of the infection.

Jock Itch

: This fungal infection typically occurs in the groin area and is known as tinea cruris. It causes itchy and flaky skin, which can develop into reddish and painful sores ().

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In addition to these skin infections, there is also an increased risk of contracting contagious viruses like influenza in the enclosed space of a gym. Sweat, sneezing, and coughing can contribute to the spread of these viruses.

Another risk to be aware of is the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause warts. Walking barefoot inside the gym can expose you to this virus, and plantar warts are a common infection caused by HPV.

Maintaining Good Hygiene at the Gym

To maintain good hygiene at the gym, here are some tips to follow:

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Experts say that certain precautions are necessary to steer clear of germs in the gym.

Avoid sharing personal belongings with others, even if you're close to them. This includes towels, bottles, and other items.

Never walk barefoot in the gym. Most infections start from the feet, and scratching can lead to the spread of infection throughout the body.

Before using any machine or equipment, make sure to clean it properly. It's a good idea to carry wipes and hand sanitizer with you to the gym.

By practicing these hygiene tips, you can help protect yourself from potential infections and enjoy a healthier gym experience.

Reference:

Which skin infections are transmitted between athletes? - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1071398/)

Source-Medindia