How hygienically do people in the gym actually behave? Scientific observation and survey studies show how often shared surfaces are touched, gym equipment is cleaned and available disinfectant is actually used.
The results reveal a clear gap between intention and behaviour. In one observational study, only 14 percent of gym-goers used the disinfectant provided – and just one person applied it as intended. In another survey, 61.6 percent said they clean gym equipment with a disinfectant wipe neither before nor after use.
What do studies show about hygiene behaviour in the gym?
- Gym-goers touch a very large number of surfaces during a workout
- Disinfectant that is provided often goes unused
- Correct application is rarer still
- Many machines are cleaned neither before nor after use
- A gym towel is sometimes treated as a substitute for disinfection
Our take: A clean workout stops being a purely private matter the moment gym equipment and surfaces are shared. A gym towel is no replacement for proper cleaning. Leaving equipment clean is part of good gym etiquette and shows respect for everyone training after you.
Please note: The figures shown come from different observational and survey studies. Results can vary depending on the gym, the country, the study design and the research method.
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