How to Protect Yourself from Gym Germs

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Most gym users are not fully aware of the dangers of gym germs, especially MRSA (Staph infection). It has become a problem covered heavily in the news. Gyms are especially dirty places - all those people, all that sweat, it is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria/germs. These germs live on gym equipment and aren't easily killed. Here are the best ways to protect yourself:

Steps

1. Wipe excess sweat off of the equipment - it's common sense, but it won't kill the germs on the equipment.
   
2. Use a sanitizer to wipe the equipment down if available - remember, using a sanitizer does not guarantee you will kill all of the germs/bacteria.
   
3. Use barrier protection.
   
   • Do not touch the equipment directly with bare hands! Infectious disease can be transmitted by contact.
     
   • Always put a towel on any equipment you are going to sit on.
     
4. Most gyms have sanitizer near the sink for you to use after or before washing your hands.
   

Tips

• Barrier protection is crucial! There are personal sanitary handle covers for gym equipment. They wrap around the handles of almost any equipment (secured with Velcro) and eliminate direct skin-to-surface contact.
  
• Always properly wash your hands after any workout.
  
• Keep your hands away from your mouth at all times.
  
• There are some excellent products available that provide protection against germs.
  

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• How to Sanitize a Public Toilet
  
• How to Wash Your Hands
  
• How to Rarely Get Sick
  

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