Can workouts make you sick?

by Dylan Telyszak

As temperatures continued to plummet during winter, more Victorians became sick. One reason can be traced back to gym-goers not cleaning up after themselves, leaving infectious bacteria to linger and spread. 

A recent survey of over 1000 people conducted by Gym Etiquette found that 25% - 35% of people don’t wipe their sweat off equipment after use. Studies conducted by the National Library of Medicine revealed there are six bacteria present in gyms: Staphylococcus, Influenza Virus, COVID-19, Tinea Fungi, Human Papillomavirus, and Salmonella. The research also found that these bacteria will cause moderate to severe illness in anyone exposed especially posting serious health risks to: seniors, people with respiratory complications and people suffering from bowel disease. The emphasis on personal hygiene at the gym is highlighted in many studies aimed at reducing risk of falling sick and protecting others around you.

Langwarrin Revo Fitness member Ryan Smyth observed his surroundings during a recent workout and warned, “One of my mates had a skin rash on the side of his neck.” He continued that testing confirmed the rash was caused by contagious bacteria likely found in unhygienic environments like a gym. Smyth argues attendance can also make it worse. “When it’s a bit quieter, you’ve got more time and you don’t have someone breathing down your neck waiting for a machine,” he adds. “You could argue that younger kids aren’t cleaning up as much but I do still see them every now and then, using the bottles and wipes." Smyth also suggested inadequate education may explain why gym-goers weren’t being vigilant about clean-up. “The gym is a welcome space for newer people," he said. "This problem can be resolved by including more signage to help explain the risks involved and the benefits of cleaning up.”

Results have shown that wiping down a gym station after use can reduce the risk of falling sick by at least 66%. For more information on how to avoid spreading bacteria at the gym, go to The National Library of Medicine's official report.