How to stay safe at the gym and maintain cleanliness when working out

Amid the collective heightened sense of hygiene issues, the idea of working out at a public gym has been a challenging one.

Gyms can be considered an active environment for germs, as we are exposed to sweat droplets and heavy breathing from others as a result of working out. Hence, it is important to take precautions during and after working out at in a public space.

Here some clever tips and guidelines to adapt into your daily routine to ensure that you are taking the necessary precautions to stay safe and protected from germs when hitting the gym:

What to pack in your gym bag

For starters, always bring a spare mask, especially so you can swap to a clean one when your current one gets all sweaty.

Another must-pack is hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol and use frequently. As you are touching common items at the gym it is important to keep your hands clean so that you don’t pass germs to your face by accident. We’d also suggest a pack of bleach wipes so you can thoroughly wipe down the equipment and sanitize surfaces before and after using it, as an extra layer of precaution.

It’s best not to rely on resources provided by the gym. Pack your own water bottle rather than using shared water dispensers – the same applies for bringing your own clean towels. If needed, get your own yoga mat and refrain from using shared ones. Same goes for elastic bands, squat pads, etc.

What to do when you get home

As soon as you get home take your gym clothes and shoes off. Put your sports kit along with your used towels in the wash – at a temperature above 60C if your apparel can take it. Alternative, use a laundry sanitiser with a lower temperature.

Shower your body thoroughly with water and soap, washing your hair with shampoo to remove germs. When you’re working out in a public space, your hair can catch external germs just like your hands can. Head & Shoulders Daily Protect Shampoo removes 99% of representative germs* and leaves your hair up to 100% free of dandruff*.  Head & Shoulders Daily Protect will ensure to remove unwanted germs and leave your hair and scalp clean and healthy.

Head & Shoulders Daily Protect is available from supermarkets, pharmacies and online retailers.

After your shower, disinfect your gym equipment and keep your bag and shoes in a designated area that does not mix with your clean items at home. If you have used earphones and a mobile device during your workout, make sure to also disinfect it with antibacterial wipes. Wash your drinking bottle preferably in a dishwasher or hot soapy water.

Remember that the risks of catching germs will never be zero but, at the same time, the health benefits of working out are huge, both mentally and physically. If you take the right precautions, you can continue to work out at the gym safely. Make sure to keep in mind all the above guidelines to minimize risks and continue to fuel your body with movement to stay healthy and fit.

* Head & Shoulders Daily Protect removes 99.9% of representative bacteria, shampooing twice.

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