If you frequent a gym regularly to hit the weights, step on the dreadmill, or power-up the rowing machine please be aware that you will be facing off against a whole host of germs.
Here are the Top 5 gross out points:
1. The Treadmill
Ever seen someone cough and splutter their way through a 5k run when they should really be at home resting up? I have. Those handles on the running machine are full of snot and spit. Don't touch them. They only ever get a cursory wipe with a gym towel at best, and the cleaners usually only touch them once a day. Keep your hands off, it's better for your well being and your running form.
2. The Weight Bench:
There is a reason that most of them are sticky. Unlike the running machine handles, you can't avoid using the bench but you can make
it cleaner. Look out for a spray bottle hanging out in the weight section. It should be full of antibacterial spray, so give this a quick squirt on the bench before and AFTER you workout. Leave it as you would want to find it.
3. The Showers:
Do you wear slippers in the showers and changing room? If not you better start, unless you are ok with getting a lovely verruca or athlete's foot. There are 23 kids in my boys swimming class - 18 of them have verrucas!
4. Toilet Door Handles:
Do I really need to explain this? Suffice to say that you should invest in some anti-bacterial hand cleanser and be mindful of what you touch.
5. Barbells & Dumbbells:
These rarely get cleaned - ever! So if you are moving up to the bar after Mr. Grunter has spat all over it, good luck to you. See that anti-bacterial spray you used on the bench? Use it again!
You go to the gym to get fit, not sick! Make sure you take necessary precaution to avoid catching a cold, a staph infection, or worse!
By: Scott Burns // Kenzai Trainer
