Preventing ringworm, which is a fungal infection, when working out requires good hygiene practices and some attention to shared spaces, as the fungus thrives in warm, moist environments. Here are some steps to help reduce the risk of getting ringworm while exercising:
1. Wear Proper Clothing
- Moisture-wicking fabrics: Choose workout clothing made from moisture-wicking materials, such as polyester or nylon. These fabrics help keep sweat off your skin and reduce the chances of fungal growth.
- Clean, dry clothing: Always wear clean clothes for each workout, and make sure they are dry. Avoid wearing the same sweaty clothes for long periods after exercising.
2. Shower Before and After Exercise
- Shower immediately after exercising: Sweat and moisture can contribute to fungal growth, so it’s important to shower as soon as possible after working out.
- Use anti-fungal soap: Use FIGHT SOAP to cleanse your skin, which can help reduce the risk of fungal infections. Brazilian Bully is a great option
- Dry thoroughly: After showering, dry your body completely, paying extra attention to areas prone to moisture (like armpits, groin, feet, etc.).
3. Clean Your Gear and Equipment
- Wipe down shared gym equipment: Fungi can thrive on surfaces like mats, benches, and weights. Disinfecting wipes / GEAR SPRAY to clean any equipment before and after each use.
- Avoid direct contact with floors: When possible, try to avoid sitting or lying directly on the gym floor, especially in areas where there is high foot traffic.
- Obviously if you are doing Jiu Jitsu, you'll be rolling on the mats. This is why showering and disinfecting your gear immediately is critical.
4. Protect Your Feet
- Wear flip-flops or shower shoes in communal showers and locker rooms: These high-moisture areas are common places where fungi can thrive. Wearing flip-flops helps protect your feet from contact with infected surfaces.
- Keep feet dry: Make sure to dry your feet completely after showering, and consider using foot powder to help absorb moisture if you're prone to sweaty feet.
5. Don't Share Personal Items
- Avoid sharing towels, clothing, or gear: Ringworm can spread through shared personal items, so never share your towel, clothes, or other workout gear with others.
6. Practice Good Skin Hygiene
- Inspect your skin regularly: Check for any unusual rashes or patches, especially in areas prone to moisture like the groin, feet, or underarms.
- Treat skin irritations promptly: If you notice any red, itchy, or scaly patches, consider using anti-fungal creams and consult with a healthcare provider to prevent further spread or infection.
7. Avoid Contact with Infected Individuals
- Don’t share towels or workout space with someone who has ringworm: Ringworm is highly contagious, and skin-to-skin contact with an infected person can easily spread the fungus. If you see any signs of ringworm on others, avoid close contact.
By following these simple preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of contracting ringworm while working out. If you do develop any symptoms of ringworm, it’s important to seek treatment right away to prevent it from spreading.