Carefully cleaning exercise equipment was the norm when the Covid-19 pandemic was raging. But today, many people may be less attentive to the presence of pathogens in crowded spaces like fitness centers. However, gyms are rife with potentially harmful germs, and it’s crucial to be aware of the risks.
According to a 2018 study, nearly 75% of swab samples taken from fitness equipment tested positive for Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria that causes most infections. This is particularly concerning because exercise mats are a breeding ground for germs. These mats, which are typically made of soft, porous material, trap oils, dead skin cells, and sweat, providing a food source for bacteria and fungi to thrive.
When using exercise mats, it’s easy to shed trillions of microbes, including bacteria and fungi, which can enter the body through small cuts or rug burns. Moreover, people typically touch their faces about 50 times per hour, which can spread these pathogens.
To stay safe, it’s essential to clean and disinfect exercise equipment, especially mats. Fitness centers often provide disinfectant wipes or sprays for this purpose. It’s also crucial to let the solution dry before use, as spraying a mat and wiping it down immediately may not be enough to kill germs. A better approach is to use disinfectant wipes, which contain the proper amount of disinfectant to kill germs. It’s also vital to let the disinfectant remain on the mat for the recommended time, typically three to four minutes.
Additional precautions include covering exercise mats with a towel before use, which can reduce the likelihood of coming into contact with germs. However, it’s essential not to reuse the towel, and laundering it immediately is a must. Using one’s own exercise mat, whether at home or in the gym, can also reduce the risk of picking up germs. When using a personal mat, it’s essential to clean and disinfect it regularly, although not as often as a shared mat.
Dr. Chuck Gerba, a professor of virology, emphasizes the importance of using a commercial disinfectant that kills germs and bacteria, and not relying on natural oils or other products. Additionally, using an antimicrobial mat can be helpful in preventing bacterial growth, but it’s still necessary to clean and disinfect them regularly.
The experts stress that taking these precautions is not meant to scare people but to inform. The onus is on individuals to stay safe, and being aware of the risks is the first step in preventing the spread of germs.