New Study Calls Public Toilet Seats 'Cleaner' Than Gym Equipment
by Jasmine Payoute
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Because you probably didn't need another reason to skip the gym—let's just say a new study says working out outdoors may be something to consider.
Researchers at Fitrated conducted tests where they examined gym equipment. Their study found that many items such as the treadmill have more bacteria than a toilet seat.
"Though many public places can harbor various types of bacteria, fitness facilities in particular can be hotspots for germs. Every time you pick up a weight or grab an exercise bike handle, you could be putting yourself at risk for an illness or infection," the study said.
While the study says this should come as no surprise, considering how many people touch the equipment, it's something gym goers probably would not have compared to a toilet seat.
The tests collected bacteria samples from 27 pieces of common gym equipment at three major gyms across the US. The samples were then tested to determine their bacteria level, and lets just say the results were rather disturbing.
According to the study, the average treadmill, exercise bike, and free weight are all seeping with germs – more than 1 million per square inch apiece.
Here's the breakdown.
The average exercise bike harbors 39 times more bacteria than a cafeteria tray. Typical free weights have 362 times more germs than a toilet seat. And the treadmill you're running on averages 74 times more bacteria than a typical public bathroom faucet.
So what does this mean?
The consequences of coming into contact with thousands of germs can be complex.
The study concluded that serious skin infections as well as other illnesses can be caused by coming into contact with that many bacteria. The study even references common illnesses like pneumonia.
While the study is meant to be informative it should not deter you from working out.
Experts at Fitrated encourage gym goers to disinfect machines both before and after you using them. They also suggest you refrain from touching your face, and change out of your gym clothes immediately after a workout.
If you're still feeling iffy about the 'germy' subject, try working out outdoors. Researchers say the natural inclines of hills make for a perfect run and to top it all off nature is usually free.
