Tips on How to Prevent Common Skin Infections at the Gym

Exercising, more particularly working out at the gym has many benefits. Aside from weight control and disease prevention, it also improves your mood. However, the gym is also a place where bacteria, viruses, and fungi could thrive. Follow these simple tips to avoid germs while you’re working out.

Wear loose-fitting, moisture-wicking clothes

Wearing clothes that fit you properly and help keep moisture away, will greatly help in keeping germs away. Also, a great workout depends on how comfortable you move with your clothes. Remember to wash your clothes after wearing them.

Always wear shoes

Wear proper footwear in the gym. Also, bringing an extra pair of shoes, flip flops or sandals in your gym back is smart, so that your feet will have protection when you’re in the shower, or around pools and locker rooms. 

Keep cuts clean and properly covered

Nobody likes seeing fresh cuts and grazes, especially in a public place like the gym. If you have wounds, avoid using saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs until your wounds are healed. If you’re working out, be sure that they are properly to protect it from bacteria. 

Disinfect gym equipment before and after using it

There are a lot of people who use gym equipment everyday. Make it a habit to carry an extra spray of disinfectant or rubbing alcohol and use it before and after using any gym equipment. Consider adding a barrier such as a towel, between your skin and shared surfaces like workout benches and bicycle seats. If you’re doing yoga, if possible, you can bring your own mat, so you can also bring it home and clean it after using it.

Wash your hands 

Wash or sanitize your hands immediately after working out. Remember, the fact that you can touch anything means germs can also easily get into those hands.

Take a shower as soon as possible

After showering, put on some clean clothes, including clean socks and underwear. Personal items such as towels, razors, and sponges should not be shared with other people.

Always keep an eye on your skin. It is the largest organ in the body, and is the easy target of bacteria and germs. If you notice signs of an infection, such as increased pain or swelling, pus, or redness, see a board-certified dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.