A single piece of gym equipment may have hundreds of users on any given day, and we all know that not everybody cleans the machines after they have finished their workout.
Sweat is not the only issue, there are viruses, bacteria, germs and even bed bugs that can live on surfaces for a few seconds, up to 48 hours.
Cleaning of the gym equipment, change rooms, floors and reception area should be a top priority for all fitness facilities.
Most fitness centres do clean their machines and facility on a schedule, but it is still easy to become exposed to another person’s sweat and germs if you use a machine right after someone else has just finished.
To protect yourself, here are some options for keeping the gym equipment clean both before and after your workout.
Vinegar and Water-Based Disinfectant
Mix a 50/50 solution of water to white vinegar and place in a spray bottle and keep it on hand to wipe down the machines. Carry a small spray bottle in your gym bag and spray the solution directly onto the machine before use and wipe thoroughly.
A water-based cleaning solution should be sprayed on every machine and surface in the facility, including the mats and flooring to prevent the spread of athlete’s foot. Many gyms offer spray bottles and paper towels for patrons to wipe down machines, but be sure to bring your own… just in case.
Wet Wipes
These are a fast and efficient way to clean the equipment if you do not want to be bothered with a spray bottle.
Hand Sanitizer
Frequent hand washing is essential to reduce the risk of germ transmission. Remember that most people will touch a wide variety of equipment and surfaces. If your facility does not have hand-sanitizer dispensers mounted on the walls, bring your own small bottle of hand sanitizer to use.
Towels
While towels will not kill viruses or bacteria, they can provide a barrier between you and the equipment, as well as “mopping up” sweat by the last person; so bring a few extra towels to your workout.
Both sweat and cleaning products can break down vinyl and foam padding and these cracks and rips can become a breeding ground for bacteria. If you have to use a piece of equipment with a rip or crack, place a clean towel over the “lesion” and let the facility know of the crack or rip, so that they can repair the material asap!
A gym is a place where you can improve your health, but it can also be a breeding ground for viruses and germs, so protect yourself by using the above guidelines.
