AVOID GYM GERMS

It's not all in your head: germs thrive in the warm, sweaty atmosphere at the gym. Here's how to keep them off of you—and hold your sick days for something fun.


Inspect the Gym Before Joining
Check to make sure the basics are covered—that it looks clean, they have an adequate housekeeping staff, and that the locker and workout areas look up to your standards. Also check to make sure it's well-ventilated. An air-tight gym becomes a prime spot for airborne infections.


Don't Go Barefoot
The shower, sauna, hot tubs and steam rooms are the perfect post-workout treat, but they're a breeding ground for germs. Wear flip-flops at all times to avoid irritating conditions like athlete's foot.

Don't Share Gear
It's so easy to borrow a friend's bar of soap or stick of deodorant--but resist the urge! It's a surefire way to start circulating unwanted germs and catch a nasty cold–or worse!



Cover Up Cuts
Put a band-aid on any skin break or cut you have before your workout. Open wounds–no matter how small–are all bacteria need to get into your body. If you're prone to shaving cuts, you may want to hold off until after your workout.

Disinfect
Bring your own antibacterial spray or wipes and clean off any equipment you use--before you work out--to protect yourself. (And spread good karma by doing it afterwards as well).



Don't Bare It All
You know that one girl in the locker room that proudly struts around in the buff? Yeah, don't be so impressed by her unabashed bravery. Keep a towel around you to avoid contracting germs when sitting on benches and other shared surfaces (read: the steam room).

Bring Your Own Water
Don't depend on the gym's water cooler to quench your post-workout thirst even if they have cups to spare. Drinking fountains are one of the worst breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses. You are much better off bringing along your own supply of H2O.



Keep Your Hands To Yourself
If you can help it, don't touch your face while working out. Sweat and other germs picked up at the gym flock to the entryways of the nose, ears and mouth.

Shower After
And if you don't have time to shower, at least give your hands a good wash afterwards. Try singing "Happy Birthday"--that's how long your hands should be under the tap to get fully clean.