Skin Infections at the Gym

Skin infections can occur when you’re exposed to certain kinds of bacteria, fungi, or viruses. These germs can build up on surfaces and equipment in gyms, such as exercise equipment and locker rooms. When you touch a contaminated item or surface, bacteria, fungi, or viruses can enter your skin and cause an infection to occur.

Think about all of the people who use the gym each day. As these people touch weights, treadmills, and other pieces of exercise equipment, ยูฟ่าเบท https://ufabet999.app they can leave germs behind. They might also spread germs on multiple surfaces, such as locker room floors, shower stalls, and sinks. Coming into contact with these germs puts you at risk of getting skin infections.

Types of Skin Infections

What kinds of skin infections can you get at the gym? Several kinds of infections can occur, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. The following are some of the more common types of skin infections that you can get at the gym.

Folliculitis

These small, itchy, and red bumps occur. When hair follicles become infected with fungi or bacteria. 

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes you to develop an itchy, raised rash with scaly patches. 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot can cause itching or burning and peeling skin between your toes and other areas of your feet. 

Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are a viral skin infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts appear on the soles of the feet. They are hard, grainy, or fleshy growths that can be painful.

How to Protect Yourself

Knowing how to keep yourself safe from skin infections can help you focus on enjoying your workouts instead of worrying about germs. When you go to the gym to exercise, keep the following prevention tips in mind.

Wear Shoes

Having shoes on can help prevent you from getting athlete’s foot, plantar warts, and other skin infections that can affect your feet. Bring flip flops or shower shoes to put on in showers and locker rooms. Wear your regular gym shoes, such as tennis shoes or sneakers, while working out.

Disinfect Gym Equipment

Avoid touching or using exercise equipment until you’ve disinfected it. Bring disinfectant wipes with you, and wipe down equipment, even if you haven’t seen anyone using it before you. Consider putting a towel on surfaces to avoid having your skin directly touch them, such as on stationary bicycle seats if you wear shorts. Disinfect equipment after using it to help reduce the spread of germs.