Many of us head to the gym for different reasons, maybe to shed those extra pounds, build muscle, or simply catch a break from the daily routine. However, the reality of a public gym is that we share the space with others, and along with it, the sweat and dirt. It’s somewhat ironic— we visit the gym to enhance our health, yet by sharing equipment and space, we expose ourselves to germs and bacteria, potentially risking our health. This scenario might sound a bit discouraging at first, but there’s no need to worry. There are some gym hygiene tips we can follow to stay clean and healthy while working out.
1. Maintain Personal Hygiene
Maintaining good personal hygiene is key when visiting public gyms. Start with some pre-workout basics, such as taking a shower and wearing clean gym attire. It is wise to have a dedicated set of gym clothes to help reduce the spread of germs. Hand sanitisation is important, so carry a hand sanitiser and use it often, especially after touching shared items like dumbbells, door handles, or cardio equipment. If you have any cuts or abrasions, cover them with waterproof bandages to prevent infections and the spread of bacteria.
2. Routine Wiping
Disinfecting equipment is a practice that protects both you and other gym-goers. Make it a routine to wipe down machines and equipment with disinfectant wipes before and after use. If you come across any equipment that is exceptionally dirty or in disrepair, report it to the gym staff immediately for cleaning or maintenance.
3. Use Towels & Bring Your Own Towels if Needed
Using towels is a simple yet effective hygiene practice. Place your towel on benches and machines to create a barrier between your skin and the shared surface, minimising direct contact with germs. To help keep shared equipment cleaner, it is also wise to have a separate small towel to wipe sweat off your face and body.
4. Wear Appropriate and Clean Footwear to Prevent Fungal Infections
Footwear is another important aspect of gym hygiene. Ensure you wear appropriate and clean footwear to prevent the onset and spread of fungal infections. Consider investing in a good quality antimicrobial spray for your gym shoes to keep them germ-free. Additionally, wearing flip flops in the shower can protect you from fungal infections like athlete’s foot by avoiding direct contact with the floor.
5. Consider Bringing Your Own Yoga Mats or Boxing Gloves
Lastly, bringing your own equipment such as yoga mats or boxing gloves can significantly enhance your gym hygiene. Not only does it ensure that you are using clean gear, but it also allows for a personalised workout experience. Make a habit of cleaning and disinfecting your personal equipment after each use. This practice not only keeps your gear germ-free but also extends its lifespan.
These simple and easy-to-follow hygiene tips can make a big difference in your gym, creating a cleaner and nicer space for your workouts. Think about it: if everyone at the gym followed these tips, we’d all enjoy a cleaner and healthier workout space. Like with many things, change begins with us. Let’s all play our part in keeping our workout spaces clean, healthy, and inviting for everyone.
