Finishing a workout at the gym is a great feeling, but it’s essential to keep up with post-gym hygiene. Neglecting crucial habits after exercising isn’t just a little unpleasant – it can pose significant health risks. From the must-do activities after the gym to why getting too cozy in the locker room is a strict no, here are hygiene habits to always remember after a workout.
1. Wash Your Hands Properly
Doctors advise that even though signs urging people to clean gym equipment are everywhere, it’s wise to assume not everyone follows that advice. Hand-washing is crucial for good hygiene, especially in public places like gyms.
Your immune system usually protects you from germs, but having open cuts or touching your eyes and nose after using gym equipment increases infection risk.
In simpler terms, treat the gym like a public restroom: always wash your hands with soap before leaving. And as a courtesy to others and to prevent germ spread, remember to wipe down equipment with disinfectant after use.
2. Wear Flip-Flops in the Locker Room
Even though the gym might feel like a second home, treating the locker room like your private bathroom isn’t a good idea. Why? Because there’s a lot of bacteria around.
In locker rooms, you’ll find common bacteria and fungi that we encounter every day: E. coli, staph and even cold and flu viruses. The germs people bring in on their shoes can easily spread and cause issues like athlete’s foot or other skin infections, so it’s better not to go barefoot.
Even if you plan to shower at home instead of at the gym, changing your socks and shoes is a good idea. Warm and damp environments are exactly what fungus causing athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch love.
3. Take a Bath
After spending hours working out at the gym, sweating is natural. However, sweat can leave your hair oily and contribute to acne. To avoid this, it’s important to shower after your workout. Make sure to thoroughly clean your hair and body. If you’re short on time and can’t shower immediately, at least wash your face to prevent acne. Sweat can block pores and promote bacterial growth, so it’s essential to keep your skin clean.
4. Use Antibacterial Towel
Antibacterial gym towels stay fresh and clean even with repeated use. Athletes and fitness lovers can use them longer without worrying about germs or unpleasant odors. They also help prevent skin infections from bacteria and fungi, offering a clean and hygienic way to dry off after workouts.
5. Handle Your Workout Gear Wisely
Don’t leave your sweaty workout clothes lying around in the house. According to a 2017 study, certain gym equipment harbors more germs than a toilet seat, and you definitely don’t want to bring them home. Toss your gym clothes into the laundry bag as soon as you get home to keep yourself and your family free from germs.
6. Use Saunas and Steam Rooms With Caution
Enjoying a sauna or steam room session after a tough workout is a great reward, but maintaining good hygiene in these spaces is essential. Saunas and steam rooms provide a warm, humid environment where mold, bacteria, and viruses thrive.
After using a sauna, be sure to dry your private area well to reduce the risk of a yeast infection. If you’re in public saunas, it’s crucial that they get cleaned often to avoid infections. If you have a cold sore or herpes outbreak, it’s best to skip the steam to prevent spreading the virus.
Herpes virus can survive for days on surfaces in these environments, so consider sanitizing your seating area before use and always sit on a towel. If time permits, taking a shower after using a sauna can help fight against other viruses.
7. Wash Your Hair
When your hair gets greasy from sweat, it might lead to acne. There’s a clear link between unwashed hair and acne. If your hair is oily and dirty, it’s a good idea to keep it away from your face, especially when you sleep. Oil accumulates on unwashed hair and can touch your face, blocking pores and causing acne.
If you go to bed after sweating without washing your hair, it’s a good idea to change your pillowcase next time. This is because the oil from your hair probably got onto your pillow.
Closing Thoughts
There you have it – the lowdown on post-workout hygiene. These simple habits aren’t just about staying fresh; they’re about keeping your health in top shape. So, after that killer workout, show yourself some love with these hygiene hacks. Your body will thank you, and so will anyone who comes within six feet of you. Stay fresh, stay healthy!
Author Bio:
Rory is the R&D Director and passionate entrepreneur, fascinated by the workings of the human body and natural solutions for common health problems. He’s single-minded in his aim to make Copper Defence a brand that’s recognized across the globe, by partnering with global brands to make these high-tech materials easily accessible for everyone. If you’d like to get in touch, email Rory at Rory@copperclothing.com or visit copperclothing.com for copper-infused clothing, pet accessories and more.
