Fitness balls and stability balls are great tools for exercise routines, but they can also be a breeding ground for harmful germs. It's important to maintain good hygiene practices to keep your gym equipment, including fitness and stability balls, clean and safe for everyone to use. In this article, we'll share three quick tips to keep your members healthy and your gym's fitness balls free of germs.
Why is it Important to Clean Fitness and Stability Balls?
A study reported by Science Daily found that sports balls "can spread potentially dangerous germs among players." The study highlighted the role of sports balls as a vehicle for the transmission of harmful germs, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Candida, and E. coli. These germs can survive on fitness and stability balls for up to 72 hours, making it vital to keep them clean to prevent the spread of infection.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a dangerous type of staph that is resistant to many antibiotics. Athletes with MRSA infections often require emergency room visits, costly outpatient follow-ups, and time away from games and practice. The Texas State Department of Health found that the infection rate among football players was sixteen times the national average. So, it's crucial to take cleanliness seriously and prevent the spread of harmful germs.
What are the Best Ways to Clean & Maintain Fitness Balls?
Tip #1: Wipe Down Fitness and Stability Balls Regularly
Sterilizing fitness balls is a crucial step in maintaining good hygiene practices. Use gym equipment wipes to disinfect the surface of the balls effectively before and after each use. For convenience and safety, be sure to have enough disinfecting wipes and wipe dispensers in your fitness spaces where they can be easily accessed by members and staff. In addition to using wipes, our EPA-registered broad-spectrum surface disinfectant is another top choice for sterilization. It is a one-step surface disinfectant, germicidal detergent, surface cleaner, fungicide, virucide, and deodorizer.
Tip #2: Wash Your Hands and Keep Towels Separate
In addition to wiping down fitness balls, it's important to use hand sanitizer after using the balls. This will help prevent the transfer of germs from your hands to the equipment. Also, use separate towels for your face and gym equipment. This will prevent cross-contamination and reduce the spread of germs. And for gym owners and managers, our gym wipes are a great solution for a healthier regimen.
Tip #3: Properly Store Fitness Balls
Properly storing fitness balls can help prolong their lifespan and prevent damage. From a bag to storage rack, there are many options for storing fitness balls. It is good to keep them in a cool, dry area away from any sharp objects.
Maintaining good hygiene practices are essential to prevent the spread of harmful germs. Using fitness and stability balls is an excellent way to keep your members active and healthy. However, it's crucial to keep this equipment clean to prevent the spread of infections. Remember to wipe down fitness balls regularly, wash your hands, and have enough gym equipment wipes and wipe dispensers on hand. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your gym equipment clean and your members healthy.
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