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How safe is your gym?

Gym hygiene and the dangerous bacteria that lurks within

Sonia Lambert

Last Update 5 months ago

Its that time of year, when we think about indulging ourselves with food and drink to celebrate the festive season with friends and family. In preparation of the holiday season, many of us will head off to the gym to make sure we don't add on those extra pounds and suffer from post holiday guilt for eating and drinking far too much!

Going to the gym is probably the most likely place to begin but, whilst intended to promote health and fitness, can actually pose significant health risks due to their potential as a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. The combination of shared equipment, sweat, and high-traffic areas creates an environment where micro-organisms can thrive and spread easily.

Here are some of the 'bacterial' hotspots:

Equipment Contamination

Gym equipment contains an alarming amount of hidden bacteria. Studies have shown that exercise machines can contain over 1 million germs per square inch. Free weights, in particular, have been found to have 362 times more bacteria than a toilet seat! This high concentration of micro-organisms is due to the constant contact with sweaty hands and bodies, coupled with inadequate cleaning between users.

Mats and Yoga Balls

Exercise mats are among the most contaminated surfaces in gyms. Research has found that mats can contain almost eight times the amount of bacteria as yoga balls. These mats often come into direct contact with skin and are difficult to clean thoroughly, making them ideal breeding grounds for various micro-organisms.

Locker Rooms and Showers

Locker rooms and shower areas are particularly problematic due to their warm, moist environments. These conditions are perfect for the growth of fungi and bacteria. Shower floors have been found to contain over 39,000 colony-forming units of bacteria per sample, significantly higher than other gym surfaces.

Types of Micro-organisms

- Bacteria

Common bacteria found in gyms include:

- Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA)

- Klebsiella

- Salmonella

- Pseudomonas

- Micrococcus

These bacteria can cause various infections, ranging from skin conditions to more severe illnesses like pneumonia or food poisoning.

- Fungi

Fungal infections such as athlete's foot and ringworm are common in gym environments, particularly in shower areas and on mats.

- Viruses

Viruses like rhinovirus, which causes the common cold, can survive on gym surfaces for several days if not properly disinfected.

Health Risks

The presence of these micro-organisms in gyms can lead to various health issues:

- Skin infections

- Respiratory infections

- Gastrointestinal illnesses

- Ear infections (from contaminated earphones)

Individuals with weakened immune systems or open wounds are particularly vulnerable to these infections.

Prevention Strategies

To minimize the risk of infection, gym-goers should:

1. Wipe down equipment before and after use with provided disinfectants.

2. Bring personal yoga mats and water bottles.

3. Wear shower shoes or flip flops in locker rooms and showers.

4. Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.

5. Avoid touching your face during workouts.

6. Shower immediately after exercising and launder gym clothes between uses.

In summary, whilst gyms do offer numerous health benefits, it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with the high concentration of germs and bacteria in these environments. By practicing good hygiene and taking preventive measures, gym-goers can significantly reduce their risk of infection and enjoy a safer workout experience.

How safe is your gym? Something to think about before packing your kit bag!

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