Is Your Haven for Health Making You Sick

by: CindyMartinez - May 5th, 2008

The music is pumping, people are sweating, weights are clanking... and bacteria and fungi are breeding, multiplying and infecting.
How do you avoid picking up bacteria and viruses from your gym??
It is impossible to find a gym that is bacteria and virus free, but it is possible to minimize the entry of that bacteria into your system.

Alarming statistics show that the following list of bacteria (plus more) can be lurking in your gym!!

Tinea pedis or athlete's foot
Human papillomavirus (causes plantar warts)
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Rhinovirus (responsible for the common cold)
Staphylococcus
Streptoccus viridans
Diptheroids
E.coli
Candida (yeast)

I am sure this is not new news for many, so please consider this blog as a friendly reminder to protect yourself!
This week when you train, follow these simple tips to aid in keeping dangerous bacteria, fungi and viruses from infectng you.

Number 1 on my list is: Always Keep your hands away from your face (gloves or no gloves).

Here are other rules to abide by:
Be polite and wipe down equipment after use. (not with the same towel used to wipe yourself)
Keep a bottle of antibacterial wet wipes in your bag.
Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer.
Wear flip flops in the shower.
Do not sit directly on shower seats.
Keep your gloves clean. (polyester gloves have been shown to collect more germs)

This last one is a must!!! Always wash your hands before you leave the Gym.

Have a Healthy week!

The information contained in this article is not intended to be used for, or replace, the advice, medical diagnosis, or treatment of your doctor. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other licensed healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, diet, or exercise routine or when you have questions regarding any medical condition. Use of this article indicates that you expressly acknowledge and agree that Optimum Nutrition, Inc., its suppliers, licensees, and sub-licensees are not responsible for the results of your decision resulting from the use of this information including, but not limited to, your choosing to seek or not seek professional medical care based on the information contained in this article.