YIKES: The average treadmill has 74 times more bacteria than a public bathroom faucet, according to equipment reviews site FitRated.
Fight Back Against Gym Germs
Follow this quick checklist to stay healthy while you exercise.
Cover any cuts or broken skin with a bandage before you go to the gym.
Wash your hands before and after your workout.
Wipe down machines before and after use.
Bring your own water bottle, towels, and exercise mat.
Never share your towels.
Don’t sit on the locker-room bench naked.
Always wear flip-flops in the locker room and shower.
Don’t shave at the gym or immediately before going there.
Whenever possible, shower at home after your workout.
Keep dirty clothes and sneakers in separate gym bag compartments or place sweaty duds in a plastic bag.
Wipe down your gym bag with a disinfectant spray and wash gym clothes after each use.
Examine your skin weekly. If you find a painful red spot or a bump, see a doc. It could be a MRSA infection, which needs immediate treatment.