Sweat At Your Own Risk: Gym Gear May Be Dirtier Than Your Toilet Seat, Says Study

Last Updated:September 10, 2025, 17:42 IST

A study reveals gym equipment like treadmills, dumbbells, and yoga mats harbour more bacteria than toilet seats, risking infections

Bacteria thrive on treadmills and can lead to skin infections and pneumonia. (Representative/Shutterstock)

The trend of people hitting the gym for workouts has surged rapidly over recent years. Gyms are equipped with various machines and tools to facilitate exercise routines. However, a study has revealed that gym equipment harbours more bacteria than a toilet seat.

Alarmingly, about 90 percent of the bacteria found in gyms can be harmful to humans. Experts suggest that those who spend long hours at the gym should ensure equipment hygiene to minimise potential health risks.

A report by The Times of India indicates that the treadmill is the most frequently used equipment in gyms. People often run on it for extended periods, during which their sweat falls onto the machine. Many even place their towel on the side of the treadmill to wipe sweat, contributing to the spread of dirt. Bacteria thrive on treadmills and can lead to skin infections and pneumonia. Individuals with weak immunity should use treadmills only after sanitising them.

The study also highlighted that dumbbells rank among the dirtiest equipment in gyms. The dumbbells individuals lift daily are covered with various bacteria, some of which are antibiotic-resistant and can spread infections. It is imperative to sanitise dumbbells before use and to wash hands thoroughly after using them.

Yoga mats, used in yoga classes or floor exercises, are another source of germs in gyms. The mats become hazardous to health due to contact with sweaty bodies. To avoid this, one should bring their own mats and refrain from using the gym’s mats.

Cross trainers are yet another major source of bacteria. When exercising on a cross trainer, hands become wet with sweat, increasing the risk of infection from others’ sweat. Hence, caution is advised when using cross trainers.

Ab benches also pose a risk. During exercise, sweat from warm-ups and cardio sessions covers the bench. When the next person uses the bench, they are exposed to bacteria mixed with sweat, which can spread swiftly. Extra care should be taken when using ab benches.

Pull-up bars, like cross trainers, are filled with bacteria. Bacteria flourish in heat and moisture, which are present on pull-up bars due to sweat. Using these bars can expose an individual to infections from other people’s sweat.

To minimise the risk of bacteria in gyms, experts recommend sanitising hands and equipment after use, carrying personal towels, changing out of sweat-stained clothes, and wearing gloves when possible.

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Author: News18