One study found that the Norovirus and MRSA are commonly found on exercise machines and even the exercise balls. These germs are hardy and can survive for almost a month on surfaces throughout the gyms. There are measures you can take to protect yourself from these germs.
One of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself from germs is to take the time to disinfect the equipment both before and after you are finished with it. If your gym does not provide disinfectant wipes to use on the machines you should ensure that you carry some hand sanitizer in your gym bag.
The locker room provides the perfect climate for bacteria and germs to flourish and you will need to exert care when using this area. It is not uncommon to find some of the heavy hitters like strep, fecal matter, MRSA, and even staph lurking in the locker room. To protect yourself in the locker room you should ensure that you avoid touching as many surfaces as possible and that you always wear foot ware.
The shower in the gym is an area that should be avoided if at all possible. The majority of gym showers are filled with a number of different infection causing bacteria. Depending upon what is in your shower it is possible to catch ringworm, warts, and even the bacteria that cause athlete’s foot.
Source: Yahoo Lifestyle
