While working out has many benefits, including weight control, disease prevention, and even mood improvement, germs can thrive at the gym. This could put gym-goers at risk for a variety of common skin infections, including ringworm, plantar warts, or impetigo, unless they take certain precautions.
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This is because bacteria, viruses, and fungi that cause skin infections to develop, thrive in warm, moist places like sweaty exercise equipment and locker room showers. Although skin infections are not a reason to cancel your gym membership, it’s important to follow a few simple steps to avoid germs while you’re at the gym.
To help prevent skin infections at the gym, our dermatologists recommend the following tips:
1. Wear loose-fitting, moisture-wicking clothes.
2. Always wear shoes, especially around pools, and in locker rooms and showers.
3. Keep any cuts clean and covered. Avoid using saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs until your wound is healed.
4. Clean equipment with disinfectant wipes or spray before and after using it.
5. Wash or sanitize your hands immediately after working out.
6. Shower as soon as possible
7. If you notice signs of an infection, such as increased pain or swelling, pus or persistent redness, make an appointment.
What Causes Gym Infections?
You might contract a skin infection through contact with different surfaces at the gym. Certain types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, including
- Bottoms of smelly gym bags
- Floors of community showers
- Insides of running shoes
Conclusion
Going to the gym can expose you to germs that cause skin conditions like staph infection and ringworms. Other illnesses that spread at the gym include colds, flu, herpes and so on.
The risk of infections does not mean you have to stop going to the gym. There are many ways to help reduce or prevent those infections. Practice good hygiene, including washing your hands, wiping down equipment, and changing and washing sweaty clothes.