MMA GYM SANITATION

   One of the most troubling things about training MMA, jiu jitsu, wrestling, etc. is that skin infections are rampant.  Everyone universally agrees showering after training is the best way to prevent infections. The question I have though is showering at the gym better then waiting 20-30 minutes to drive home and shower?  
    What must be considered with the gym shower is that it is used by everyone. It is also not very clean and would say it is cleaned only once or twice a week.  Shower heads have been found to harbor bacteria that can cause lung disease. The shower must also contain fungus and mrsa. I would suspect also the moist environment is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.  
    On the hand driving home may not be the best option either.  On average I would say not everyone leaves immediately and drives straight home. Most I would say stick mill around for 20 minutes after.  So the down time between the gym and home may actually be an hour on average.
   So which do you think is worse showering immediately in a dirty shower or waiting an hour to be home?  Does the down time effect your chances of being infected?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Showering in a dirty shower after gym may cause fungal infections like athlete’s foot which are most easily transmitted by bare feet in a shower or using the gym cubicles for showering. So it is advisable to shower at home in a clean environment to avoid transmission of any fungal infection.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.