Expert Warns Bacteria on Gym Equipment Require Proper Hygiene Practices

Cleaning specialist highlights the importance of proper sanitization in fitness facilities

Canada, 23rd Oct 2025 — A cleaning and building maintenance professional is raising awareness about hygiene practices in gyms, emphasizing the importance of proper equipment sanitization to reduce bacterial exposure.

Ranjit Takhar at Evergreen Building Maintenance says that shared gym surfaces can harbor various types of bacteria, making proper cleaning protocols essential for maintaining a healthy fitness environment.

“Gym equipment is frequently touched by multiple users throughout the day, and without consistent sanitization, bacteria can accumulate on these surfaces,” said Ranjit. “Warm, moist environments combined with shared surfaces make proper hygiene practices particularly important in fitness centers.”

Studies have shown that gym equipment can harbor significant bacterial populations, though it’s important to understand that not all bacteria pose health risks. A study by FitRated found high bacterial counts on gym equipment, with treadmills averaging 1,333,432 colony-forming units (CFU) per square inch and exercise bikes averaging 1,000,396 CFU per square inch. However, these measurements reflect total bacterial counts, including both harmless and potentially harmful microorganisms.

Understanding the Real Risks

According to Ranjit, awareness of gym hygiene has improved in recent years, but understanding which bacteria pose actual health risks is important.

“While total bacterial counts on gym equipment can be high, the primary health concern involves specific pathogenic bacteria that can cause infections,” he said. “One particularly concerning bacteria is Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause skin infections if it enters the body through cuts or abrasions.”

Research published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS ONE has documented the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), on fitness equipment surfaces. The Public Health Agency of Canada highlights Community-Acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) as a concern in athletic and fitness environments, where it can spread through skin-to-skin contact or contact with contaminated surfaces.

“Shared mats, free weights, and cardio machine handlebars are high-touch surfaces that require regular cleaning,” Ranjit added. “Proper disinfection helps reduce the risk of exposure to potentially harmful bacteria.”

Professional Cleaning and Hygiene Protocols

Fitness centers that implement comprehensive cleaning protocols can significantly reduce bacterial contamination on equipment surfaces. Professional cleaning services use EPA-registered disinfectants and systematic sanitization methods designed to target harmful microorganisms.

“Regular cleaning by staff and members is important, but professional cleaning services provide deeper sanitization using specialized equipment and hospital-grade disinfectants,” Ranjit said. “This includes electrostatic sprayers and systematic protocols that ensure thorough coverage of all surfaces.”

To minimize risk, health authorities including the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend:

• Wiping down shared equipment with appropriate disinfectants after each use
• Cleaning athletic gear regularly with antibacterial solutions
• Providing accessible hand-sanitizing stations and disinfectant wipes throughout fitness areas
• Implementing regular professional cleaning schedules

Practical Tips for Gym Users

The cleaning expert also shared several evidence-based steps gym-goers can take to protect themselves:

• Use a clean towel as a barrier between your skin and shared surfaces
• Wash hands before and after workouts
• Avoid touching your face during exercise
• Shower promptly after gym sessions
• Keep cuts or open wounds covered with clean, dry bandages
• Report any damaged or visibly unclean equipment to gym staff

“If you notice any unusual skin irritation, redness, or swelling after visiting a gym, consult a healthcare provider,” Ranjit advised. “Early evaluation can help identify and treat potential infections before they become more serious.”

The Bigger Picture: Shared Responsibility for Hygiene

While bacterial contamination on gym equipment is a legitimate concern, the risk of infection can be substantially reduced through proper hygiene practices by both facility operators and individual users. Evergreen Building Maintenance emphasizes that maintaining a clean gym environment requires cooperation between professional cleaning services, gym staff, and members.

“Clean gyms aren’t just about appearance,” Ranjit said. “They’re about creating an environment where proper hygiene practices are prioritized and made easy for everyone to follow. Professional sanitization combined with individual responsibility makes fitness facilities safer for all users.”

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to emphasize that regular handwashing, proper surface disinfection, and good personal hygiene remain the most effective strategies for preventing infection transmission in shared spaces, including gyms and fitness facilities.

Company Details

Organization: Evergreen Building Maintenance Inc.

Contact Person: Ranjit Takhar

Website: https://evergreenmaintenance.ca/

Email: Send Email

Contact Number: +12508695165

Country: Canada

Release Id: 23102535920