Tips for a Germ-Free Gym – at home or away from home

Whether you work out at home or go to a gym, there are precautions you can take to prevent the spread of germs and protect yourself.

Let’s face it; there are many touchpoints at the gym: dumbbell handles, yoga mats, gym balls, barbells, plates, bike, and treadmill touch screens and handles; you get the picture.

What can you do?

Here are five tips for protecting yourself and others.  

1. Keep your distance, wear your mask, and wash your hands. If your gym provides antibacterial spray or wipes, use them before and after using the equipment. Wipe it down! 
2. Protect your feet and wear workout shoes in the gym. Wear flip-flops in the shower. Don’t walk barefoot in the bathrooms, shower, and changing areas. 
3. Bring your water bottle to the gym to keep hydrated, and don’t touch the cap with your hands during workouts. 
4. Bring your towel and yoga mat.
5. If you carry your workout plan in a notebook and use a pen, sanitize that pen when you are done. 

Our home gym is our sanctuary, and it’s our favorite room in the house. The price tag on equipment is no joke; to protect your investment, it’s essential to keep it clean and well serviced.

Here are six tips for caring for your home gym from top to bottom.

1. The yoga mat holds bacteria like a sponge. You’ll want to use a solution of warm water and a mild detergent. Dish soap works well and is inexpensive. Fill up the bathtub and submerge your yoga mat. Allow it to soak for a few minutes, allowing the release of dirt, oils, and any odors. 
2. Dumbbells: dumbbell handles need some TLC now and then. Use dish soap mix with a gallon of water. With a damp cloth and wipe dumbbells clean. Use a dry cloth to dry handles to prevent rusting. If you need a little extra clean, use a stiff plastic bristle brush, scrub, and let sit for a bit, then wipe clean and dry.  
3. Equipment in general; treadmill, bike, stepper, row machine, bench, exercise balls, racks, etc. Dust them with a soft rag, wipe the seat, handles down with another damp rag using a mixture of dish soap and water, follow with a clean, dry cloth. Don’t use corrosive products on screen, control knobs, wheels, cables, buttons, etc.; follow manufactures instructions for maintenance. Check and tighten all screws. Check for wear and tear on all moveable parts and replace or repair if you notice that they look worn or are damaged. 
4. Rubber Gym Flooring can get gross with sweat and grit. If you have a rubber floor mix one cup of white vinegar with a gallon of hot water. Use a clean rag mop or sponge mop to spread the mixture on the floor. This solution will disinfect the floor without damaging the rubber material. 
5. Wrist wraps, elbow sleeves, knee sleeves, oh my, these get left all over the gym. Be sure you collect them weekly and wash them in cool water with a small amount of detergent. Let them drip dry. Heat will lock in bacteria, hold odor and cause them to lose shape over time, so don’t use hot water or place it in the dryer. It’s a good idea to have several pairs of each for rotation. 
6. Mirrors every home gym should have to watch your form and transformation progress. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle, spray, and wipe with a cloth – you get a bonus shoulder workout. 

Be aware of your surroundings, be mindful at the local gym, and take all the steps to keep yourself safe and healthy. At home, protect your investment by taking great care of your gym and its contents. 

Are you ready to start your journey to better fitness? Take action and contact K Factor Coaching today.