Fitness Centers

Dumbbells, barbells and workout machines commonly used in gyms can act as reservoirs for disease-causing germs, according to reports.

Claims are that these bacterial, viral and fungal pathogens could cause anything from diarrhea to athlete's foot and that the grimiest areas of the gym are the warm, wet places such as the sauna, showers, swimming pools and hot tubs.

Disease-causing bacteria, fungi and viruses have been found everywhere from gym floors, door handles, weights, barbells, cardio machines, bicycles, treadmill handlebars, benches, chairs and exercise mats but also warm and wet areas tend to contain the most germs.

The most common germ found in gyms is Staphylococcus aureus which can cause skin infections. However, previous studies have uncovered traces of viral infections including rhinovirus, influenza, Covid-19 and syncytial virus.

These can all persist in the air of an enclosed gym for hours, and they can remain on hard surfaces for several days.