Discover the Top 10 Germs Lurking on Your Gym Equipment!

On May 8, 2024

Understanding Fungal Resistance in Gym Environments

Another downside of gym environments is the potential for fungal infection. Fungi are quite resilient, which can make them resistant to certain antifungal treatments, warns Dr Abdul. What’s more, treating fungi without harming the host can be a challenge, because human and fungal cells share many of the same basic structures. This similarity can result in undesirable off-target drug effects, as explained by The American Society for Microbiology.

Increased Risk of Viral Infections in Gyms

In the wake of COVID-19, it’s important not to overlook the risk of viral infections in gyms, especially upper respiratory tract infections such as the flu. Dr Abdul points out that these are most commonly contracted in places where people are working out, largely due to the heavy breathing which can facilitate the spread of viruses.

Common gym equipment like benches, bike seats, and other surfaces coated with water-resistant material are more likely to harbor viruses that cause upper respiratory tract infection or gastroenteritis, according to Dr Abdul. He also notes that hard surfaces, including metal ones like dumbbells, kettlebells, and weight plates, can sustain viruses for longer periods than soft surfaces.

How to Reduce the Risk of Infection in Gyms

So, what precautions can you take? Dr Abdul suggests that the safest option is to bring your own (BYO) gear. If that’s not feasible, laying a towel on the equipment can at least provide a barrier between your skin and the microbes. However, it’s essential not to use the same towel to wipe away sweat. If you want to take additional precautions, he recommends using disinfecting solutions designed to neutralize bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Adopting a more effective use of disinfecting wipes can also help reduce infection risk in the gym. Make sure to sufficiently wet the surface and allow it to dry for the disinfectant to work effectively. Dr Abdul advises against using the same wipe on multiple surfaces, from the bench to the handles of the pec deck, as this could potentially spread germs. It’s crucial to ensure the surface remains wet after wiping for the best results.

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