Avoiding germs when @ the gym (& hopefully avoiding the flu!)

With all the buzz about a nationwide flu "epidemic", I thought I'd blog about ways to stay germ-free when at the gym (some may seem like "common sense" to you, but maybe not to everyone):

1) if you use a mat for your workout do yourself a favor and PLEASE bring your OWN!!
No need to spend a lot of money, but really think about it-you are laying face down on a mat where maybe someone had their feet, booty, and every other body part...yuk! You are here to 'better your health', so PLEASE go buy your own mat!!!

2) Sanitize! Most gyms provide wipes or sanitizing spray, so WIPE DOWN any equipment that you use both before AND after! That includes the hand rails on the treadmill, hand weights, stability balls, etc.

3) Do not touch your face (nose, eyes, mouth) until you have washed &/or sanitized your hands!

4) Bring your own towel. Some gyms do not always properly wash their towels (at least not like you would at home!)

5) Bring your own water bottle and don't use the public water fountain!

**Some additional notes:  when home open up some windows and let some fresh air circulate throughout your home!  Also, use a humidifier to help keep moisture in the air.  Exercise is a GREAT way to help boost your immune system--so get moving!!

**Pictured below is my new, 6ft round yoga mat that I bought .  Now there's no need for me to rotate my mat or have my hands and feet on the floor (which others have touched or walked on with dirty shoes or bare feet!!)  Pretty cool isn't it?  (And yes, it does take up space! lol)

Stay healthy friends!!