Workout

Gym Equipment Dirtier than Public Toilet Seats

Published

7 years ago

October 9, 2017

Zizou

If you are one of those people who is always looking forward to an excuse to quit the gym, then here you are. Exercise equipment may be dirtier than you could even imagine. Health officials have been testing the gym equipment around the country. They have concluded that treadmills have bacteria around 74% times more than a public toilet seats.

It has been suggested that one should sanitize each and every machine at the gym when one touch it. Also, it has been stressed that one should bring one’s mat to avoid infections caused by ringworms. Hot tubs must be avoided as well.

Be Cautious while at the Gym:

Experts have also said that one should never enter the locker room bare feet. There are chances that you will catch bacteria, fungi, and viruses. A study has reported that everything from MRSA to simple toenail fungus can easily be caught at the gym and brought home. If you have seen the bottle of cleaner and a bleached rag on every machine, then this is not done by mistake but it has been done intentionally.

People do not always look at and follow the signs, but they know what a wipe, towel and bottle means. People see their fellows doing it and hence they adopt the habit, which is a good one indeed.

Germs are Everywhere when we are at the Gym:

Most of the times people go to these fitness clubs so that they maintain their fitness level. However, with this report, people are afraid that the equipment at fitness centers get them infected with bacteria, viruses, and fungus.

No doubt one should be aware of the fact that one when enters a gym and touches a machine, then there is a possibility that almost 50 to 100 people might have touched them earlier to one. It is worth stating here that even people do it without cleaning.

It would not be wrong to say that in this way when we are at the gym we are all covered with germs. When we say germs this means viruses, fungus, and bacteria everywhere.<span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span>

You are Vulnerable to Infections when you are at a Public Gym:

Looking at these reports, it can easily be said that we go to gyms to:

Burn our calories
Get fit
And increase our strength

But if you act in carelessly then higher chances are there that you will be carrying home more than what you went there to bargain.

No doubt it is already known that most of the public places serve best for these types of parasites to live. It was not thought that fitness centers can serve to be their habitat as well.

So every time you grab a bicycle handle or pick a weight, you are putting yourself at risk of getting an infection or falling prey to some kind of illness. Isn’t it spooky?

Fit Rated Study:

Fit Rated conducted a study where they went to different chains around the country. There they tested almost 27 different kinds of equipment. The results that they had been enough to push you to go and take a shower if you just came back from a gym. Results were that

“on average, every bike is almost 39 times dirtier as compared to a cafeteria tray; treadmills carry 74 times more germs as are carried by the bathroom faucet of a public place and worst offender free weights carry 362 times more bacteria as are carried by the public toilet seat.”

In short, these highly equipped gyms are no doubt breeding grounds for germs like fungus, bacteria, and viruses, etc.

Types of Germs:

So think of you will be getting in to contact with how many germs during your single visit to the fitness center? The samples that were tested determined the levels of bacteria on colony-forming units. The results turned out to be the 1 million per square inches per piece on an exercise bike or treadmill.

Free weight has been found teeming with the germs like anything. All these three pieces of equipment were also seen to be a positive yielding point for the gram-positive cocci which a common skin infection is causing bacteria and other related illnesses.

Gram-negative rods causing different types of infection were there too. Last but not least, gram-positive rods that are known to cause several infections were the residents as well. Free weights and exercise bikes also showed the Bacillus which causes infections of eyes, ears, and respiratory tract.

Must Read: Free Weights vs. Machines: What’s the Difference?

Nastiest Bacteria Enjoy Living in Gyms:

The National Institute of Health conducted a study in Tennessee. They concluded that fitness equipment has found to be the loveliest habitat for the nastiest known bacteria around the globe. Ranging from staphylococcus, MRSA and Salmonella were detected.

A report has written that the finding of the study related to gym equipment underscores the need to increase awareness among people about the:

The significance of sanitation for the public gym users
Personal hygiene as a whole

How you can Protect Yourself?

Not everyone can afford to have a gym at home. People nowadays are more than ever fitness conscious. So how one can protect oneself even when he or she is going to a public gym on a regular daily basis?

Disinfect the Equipment:

First, never forget to disinfect the machines before and after using them. When you do it before using the equipment, you will be getting it safe and clean for you. Disinfecting the equipment after exercise will make it safe for the ones coming after you.

Do Not Walk Barefoot:

Never walk barefoot as in this way you will be welcoming these tiny evils yourself. Als,o do not touch your face as the face is the most sensitive part of the body and catches infections more than easily

Wash your Hands:

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after working out as you will be doing everything with them and maximum chances are that they will be the carriers of the bacteria, fungus, and viruses

Change the Gym attire:

Change the gym clothes right after you are done with the exercise. If an option is there, stand under the shower for a minute or two to get rid of all the sweat and potential infection

Personal Mat:

Always carry your exercise mat so you do not have to borrow anyone else’s. Never borrow anyone’s towel at the gym.

This again makes the person venerable against the dictatorship of the infections. Not even to wipe your hands or feet. If you will do this, you will be making yourself vulnerable to the illness.

Conclusion:

If you can afford, it is highly suggested to get your little gym at home. In this way, you will be in a position to work out without any fear of getting caught by bacteria, fungus, and viruses. If this is not possible, be vigilant and careful while using the public gym.

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Zizou

Building muscle mass is what I like to talk about. If your aim is to build a solid body, then my posts would be very beneficial to you. I always want to know your opinion, so don't hesitate to drop a line below or contact me.

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Bodybuilding

14 Morning Run Safety Tips for Bodybuilding and Fitness

Published

3 weeks ago

November 28, 2024

Sane

Morning Run can be a refreshing way to start the day, but it comes with its own set of challenges and safety concerns. For bodybuilders, who often have rigorous training schedules, it's crucial to take extra precautions to ensure a safe and effective workout. Here are some essential safety tips for bodybuilders who run in the wee hours of the morning:

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1. Plan Your Morning Run Route

Choose a well-lit, familiar route that is safe and free from heavy traffic. Avoid secluded areas and opt for routes with plenty of pedestrian traffic. If possible, run in parks or designated running trails.

2. Wear Reflective Gear

Visibility is key when running in the dark. Wear reflective clothing, shoes, and accessories to ensure that you are seen by drivers and other pedestrians. A headlamp or flashlight can also help you see the path ahead.

3. Inform Someone Before a Morning Run

Always let someone know your running route and expected return time. This way, if something goes wrong, someone will be aware and can alert authorities if necessary.

4. Carry Identification During Morning Run

Wear an ID bracelet or carry identification in your pocket. Include your name, emergency contact information, and any medical conditions or allergies. This information can be crucial in case of an emergency.

5. Stay Alert

Keep your senses sharp and stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid wearing headphones or earbuds, as they can distract you from potential dangers. Instead, listen to the sounds around you and be prepared to react quickly.

6. Run Against Traffic

When running on roads, always run against the direction of traffic. This allows you to see oncoming vehicles and gives you more time to react if needed.

7. Vary Your Routine

Don't run the same route at the same time every day. Varying your route and schedule can help prevent potential attackers from predicting your movements.

8. Carry a Personal Safety Device

Consider carrying a personal safety device, such as a whistle or pepper spray. These items can help you defend yourself if you encounter a threat.

9. Stay Hydrated

Even though it's early in the morning, your body still needs hydration. Drink water before and after your run, and consider carrying a small water bottle with you.

10. Warm Up Properly for Morning Run

Before you start running, take a few minutes to warm up. Stretching and light exercises can help prevent injuries and prepare your muscles for the workout ahead.

11. Dress Appropriately

Wear moisture-wicking clothing to keep cool and dry. Layering is essential, especially in colder months, so you can adjust your clothing as you warm up.

12. Check the Weather

Before heading out, check the weather forecast. Avoid running in extreme conditions, such as heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat. If conditions are unsafe, consider an indoor workout instead.

13. Trust Your Instincts

If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and find a safer location. Your safety is the top priority, and it's better to be cautious than sorry.

14. Post-Run Routine

After your run, take time to cool down and stretch. This helps reduce muscle soreness and improves flexibility. Also, refuel with a healthy breakfast to replenish your energy levels.

Analysing Your Morning Run Route

Running in unsafe areas can put you at risk, especially in the early morning when visibility is low. Here are some routes to avoid:

Secluded or Remote Areas

Avoid running in places that are far from help, such as remote trails or rural roads. These areas can be dangerous if you encounter wildlife or if you get injured and no one is around to help.

Check High-Crime Areas Before Morning Run

Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid neighborhoods with high crime rates. If you're unsure about the safety of an area, it's best to find an alternative route.

Avoid Unlit Roads During Morning Run

Running on roads without streetlights can be hazardous, especially if there's no sidewalk. Cars might not see you, and it's harder to see potential hazards on the road.

Busy Highways or Interstates

Avoid running on or near highways where traffic is fast-moving and there's little room for pedestrians. The noise and exhaust can also be harmful.

Construction Zones

Be cautious around areas with ongoing construction. There might be debris, uneven surfaces, and heavy machinery that can pose risks.

Blind Curves and Hills

Routes with sharp turns or steep hills can be dangerous because you can't see oncoming traffic. It's safer to choose routes with good visibility.

Areas with Poor Drainage Aren't Safe for Morning Run

Avoid routes that are prone to flooding or have poor drainage. Wet, slippery surfaces can lead to falls and injuries.

Unfamiliar Trails

Stick to trails you know well. Unfamiliar trails can be tricky to navigate, and you might get lost or encounter unexpected obstacles.

Overall

By following our morning run safety tips, you enjoy the benefits while minimizing the risks. Remember, safety should always come first, and taking these precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable workout experience.

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Bodybuilding

Primal Movements: Our Ultimate Guide for Maximum Results

Published

4 months ago

August 29, 2024

Zizou

Primal movements are fundamental, natural movements that our bodies are designed to perform. Incorporating these into your training can enhance strength, mobility, and overall fitness. Here’s an ultimate guide to primal development and movements for bodybuilders:

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Understanding Primal Movements

Primal movements are basic, functional movements that mimic the natural actions humans have performed for thousands of years. These movements are essential for developing a strong, balanced, and resilient body. They can be categorized into seven primary patterns:

Push
Pull
Squat
Lunge
Hinge
Rotate
Gait (Locomotion)

The Seven Primal Movement Patterns

Push

Description: Involves moving a weight or resistance away from your body.

Examples: Push-ups, bench press, overhead press.

Muscles Worked: Chest, shoulders, triceps.

Pull

Description: Involves drawing a weight or resistance towards your body.

Examples: Pull-ups, rows, bicep curls.

Muscles Worked: Back, biceps, forearms.

Squat

Description: A fundamental lower-body movement where you lower your hips from a standing position and then stand back up.

Examples: Bodyweight squats, barbell squats, goblet squats.

Muscles Worked: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves.

Lunge

Description: A single-leg movement that involves stepping forward, backward, or to the side and lowering your hips.

Examples: Forward lunges, reverse lunges, lateral lunges.

Muscles Worked: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves.

Hinge

Description: Involves bending at the hips while keeping a neutral spine.

Examples: Deadlifts, kettlebell swings, hip thrusts.

Muscles Worked: Hamstrings, glutes, lower back.

Rotate

Description: Involves twisting or rotating the torso.

Examples: Russian twists, woodchoppers, cable rotations.

Muscles Worked: Obliques, abdominals, lower back.

Gait (Locomotion)

Description: Involves movements that propel the body forward.

Examples: Walking, running, crawling, bear crawls.

Muscles Worked: Full body, with emphasis on legs and core.

Benefits of Primal Movements

Functional Strength: Primal movements enhance your ability to perform everyday tasks efficiently and safely.

Improved Mobility: These movements promote flexibility and range of motion, reducing the risk of injury.

Balanced Development: By working multiple muscle groups, primal movements ensure balanced muscle development.

Core Stability: Many primal movements engage the core, improving overall stability and strength.

Increased Caloric Burn: Compound movements like these burn more calories, aiding in fat loss and conditioning.

Incorporating Primal Movements into Your Training

Warm-Up: Start with dynamic stretches and light cardio to prepare your body.

Compound Exercises: Focus on compound exercises that incorporate multiple primal movements.

Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or resistance to continue making gains.

Variety: Mix up your routine to prevent plateaus and keep your workouts interesting.

Recovery: Ensure adequate rest and recovery to allow your muscles to repair and grow.

Sample Primal Movement Workout

Warm-Up: 5-10 minutes of light cardio and dynamic stretching.

Workout:

Push: 3 sets of 10-12 reps of push-ups or bench press.

Pull: 3 sets of 10-12 reps of pull-ups or rows.

Squat: 3 sets of 10-12 reps of bodyweight or barbell squats.

Lunge: 3 sets of 10-12 reps per leg of forward or reverse lunges.

Hinge: 3 sets of 10-12 reps of deadlifts or kettlebell swings.

Rotate: 3 sets of 15-20 reps of Russian twists or cable rotations.

Gait: 3 sets of 30-60 seconds of bear crawls or sprints.

Cool-Down: 5-10 minutes of static stretching and deep breathing exercises.

1. Warm-Up and Mobility Drills

Start your workout with primal movement-based warm-ups to prepare your body. For example:

Dynamic stretches: Incorporate lunges with a twist, leg swings, and arm circles.
Mobility drills: Include exercises like hip circles, cat-cow stretches, and thoracic rotations.

2. Compound Exercises

Add primal movements as the core of your workout. Here’s how you can structure it:

Push Day: Combine bench presses with push-ups.
Pull Day: Mix pull-ups with rows.
Leg Day: Integrate squats and lunges with deadlifts.

3. Supersets and Circuits

Create supersets or circuits that include primal movements:

Superset Example: Pair squats with pull-ups or push-ups with lunges.
Circuit Example: Rotate through exercises like kettlebell swings, bear crawls, and Russian twists with minimal rest.

4. Functional Training Days

Dedicate one or two days a week to functional training focused on primal movements:

Sample Functional Workout

- Warm-Up: 5 minutes of dynamic stretching.
- Circuit: 3 rounds of:
  - 10 push-ups
  - 10 pull-ups
  - 15 squats
  - 10 lunges per leg
  - 15 kettlebell swings
  - 20 Russian twists
  - 30 seconds of bear crawls
- Cool-Down: 5 minutes of static stretching.

5. Active Recovery

Use primal movements on active recovery days to promote mobility and flexibility:

Activities: Light yoga, walking, or gentle bodyweight exercises like lunges and squats.

6. Progressive Overload

Gradually increase the intensity of primal movements by adding weights or resistance bands:

Example: Start with bodyweight squats, then progress to goblet squats, and eventually barbell squats.

7. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how your body responds to these movements and adjust accordingly:

Modify: If a movement feels too challenging, modify it to suit your fitness level.
Rest: Ensure you’re getting adequate rest and recovery to prevent overtraining.

Sample Weekly Routine for Primal Movements

Monday: Push Day

Bench Press
Push-Ups
Overhead Press

Tuesday: Pull Day

Pull-Ups
Rows
Bicep Curls

Wednesday: Leg Day

Squats
Lunges
Deadlifts

Thursday: Functional Training

Circuit of primal movements (as outlined above)

Friday: Active Recovery

Light yoga or walking

Saturday: Full-Body Workout

Combination of push, pull, squat, and hinge movements

Sunday: Rest Day

By incorporating these primal movements, you’ll enhance your functional strength, mobility, and overall fitness. If you have any specific goals or need further customization, feel free to ask! Happy training.

For optimal performance in primal movements before a bodybuilding competition, consider these supplements:

Pre-Workout Supplements: These can provide energy and enhance performance. Look for products containing creatine, nitric oxide stimulators, and caffeine.

Post-Workout Supplements: Essential for recovery, including protein powders, BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids), and multivitamins.

Fat Burners and Metabolizers: These can help in reducing body fat while maintaining muscle mass. Ingredients like green tea extract and L-carnitine are popular.

Adaptogens: Supplements like ashwagandha and rhodiola rosea can help manage stress and improve endurance.

Conlusion

Primal movements, which include squatting, lunging, hinging, twisting, walking, pushing, and pulling, benefit from a strong foundation of functional strength and mobility. Ensuring your body is well-nourished and recovered will help you perform these movements effectively.

Incorporating primal movements into your bodybuilding routine can lead to significant improvements in strength, mobility, and overall fitness. By focusing on these fundamental patterns, you can build a well-rounded, resilient body that performs well both in and out of the gym.