Germs at the Gym

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How to Be Germ-Free

Squeaky-Clean Strategies

Follow this quick checklist to stay healthy while you work out.

Cover any cuts or broken skin with a bandage before you go to the gym.
Wash your hands before and after your workout.
Wipe down machines before and after use.
Bring your own water bottle, towels, and exercise mat.
Never share your towels.
Don't sit on the locker-room bench naked.
Always wear flip-flops in the locker room and shower.
Don't shave at the gym or immediately before going there.
Whenever possible, shower at home after your workout.
Keep dirty clothes and sneakers in separate gym bag compartments or place sweaty duds in a plastic bag.
Wipe down your gym bag with a disinfectant spray and wash gym clothes after each use.
Examine your skin weekly. If you find a painful red spot or a bump, see a doc. It could be a MRSA infection, which needs immediate treatment.

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, October 2012.

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mik1of31 wrote:

Im with Alison632...what germs don't make you sick will boost your immune system. If your immune system is healthy,it will fight off any germs...and be all the stronger for it. I wipe down machines when Im done with the same towel I use on my face. I shower at the gym. I'm 47, havent had the flu since 2001, and have NEVER, EVER had athletes foot, and the only time I wear shoes is when I HAVE to. Otherwise, I'm barefoot.

3/20/2013 02:06:12 PM Report Abuse

cora.p.stephens wrote:

There are a few women at my gym who like to walk around naked and sit in the sauna with no clothes on. gross.

3/20/2013 10:16:37 AM Report Abuse

pennyfrost72 wrote:

Gross! Alison632...Do you remember the old George Carlin bit about Germs: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnmMNdiCz_s Too funny!

2/6/2013 07:57:37 PM Report Abuse

anonymous wrote:

This is why I'm so glad I workout at home! Thanks to Beachbody!

12/3/2012 11:34:49 PM Report Abuse

olderdandrt wrote:

Great article! I think too many of us think that the "clean the machine after use" rule is actually done and well ( or at least as well as we do it) and I just know it's not always the case. Have always been leary of the "ball" and the "mat", too. I just don't use them at the gym. I can do that part at home with my own equipment. Will clean machines before & after use from now on. Thank you so much for this reminder.

11/4/2012 08:01:39 PM Report Abuse