Escape Gym Germs

As more people realize the importance of health and fitness and head to gyms to work out, we face increased exposure to colds, flu, streptococcus and other germs as we sweat and strive to be healthy. From the change rooms to the showers to the equipment, the gym is full of warm, moist areas where bacteria and viruses can thrive – and where you can easily come in contact with them.

Rather than running to hide, fight those nasty germs on their own turf. Here’s how:

• Shower:

Wash thoroughly before and after a swim, steam, sauna or spa. Wear footwear in damp and wet area to prevent fungal infections between the toes. Use liquid dispenser soap in the change rooms. Bar soaps can host many types of germs.

• Don’t share your towels or your clothes:

Unhygienic fabrics can spread diseases such as pinkeye, skin rashes or unpleasant fungal infection. Don't share your clothes or towel with anyone.

• Wipe it off:

Use a small towel to wipe off the equipment, including free weights, machines, and mats, before and after you use them (even though the salt in sweat inhibits the growth of bacteria).

• Dry your body first:

The same fungus that tries to take up residence between your toes can create a rash in the groin area or under the breast.

• Close your mouth:

Public pools may contain small amounts of cryptosporidium, chlorine-resistant protozoa, which spread when toddlers accidentally soil their swimsuits.

• Check the hot spa:

It can harbor a number of microbes, including pseudomonas, that cause skin infection. The water should have between one and five parts chlorine per million parts water and a pH level of around 7.5.

• Don’t over worry:

If you’re wondering about particularly serious viruses such as hepatitis B and HIVdefine, they can’t be transmitted through sweat or by using a pool, hot tub or sauna.