How To Maintain A Home Gym

Exercise is a healthy habit to have, and a home gym is a fantastic way of ensuring you stick to your fitness routine even when life gets in the way. A home gym is a private space that allows you to exercise at your convenience and without fear of being judged.

So, whether you are just starting out or have a full-fledged gym in your home, taking care of your equipment and gym space will help prevent home gym odors and increase your equipment’s lifespan.

Clean Your Gym

Gyms can be germ-infested places if not cleaned regularly. This is one of the reasons why they had to stay closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is important to regularly disinfect surfaces and gym equipment with disinfectant wipes after use. This includes any equipment used and mats. In other words, anything you come into contact with during your session should be cleaned or washed. You can then deep clean the whole gym every two weeks or so.

Do not wait long to clean after use. Keeping a regular cleaning routine will help you know what needs to be cleaned immediately and when you can do a deep clean to prevent germs from festering.

Not all gym equipment can be cleaned the same way because some cleaning products and methods can end up damaging your equipment.

Cardio Machines

Treadmills, ellipticals, and other electronic machines require much care when cleaning. This is because any liquid that gets into them can cause them to short-circuit and get damaged.

Unplug all electronic equipment before cleaning any electronic equipment. Use dish soap and water to clean the handles and any other non-electric parts, and wipe them down with a microfibre cloth. You can then wipe the screen with a damp cloth.

Yoga and Floor Mats

Yoga mats and floor mats should be wiped down after every use with disinfectant spray, wipes, or a solution made with one part water and one part white vinegar. You can add tee tree oil to the solution, which has several uses, including antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral.  For a thorough clean, use a scrub with soap and water and wipe it down or let it completely dry before rolling it up.

Foam Rollers, Free Weights, and Resistance Bands

These can be wiped down after use. Foam rollers may wear out if washed with water and can be cleaned with a damp cloth. You can clean up ridges in weights using a brush and soap to ensure there is no dirt build-up.

When cleaning, especially with harsh products, ensure the windows are open to allow the free flow of air. Do not forget to also protect yourself by wearing gloves.

Ensure the Humidity and Temperature are Right

Whenever you buy gym equipment, the ideal temperatures and humidity will be included in the manual, and suggestions are given about where the equipment should be placed. Experts suggest that a gym should be between 65 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Spikes in temperature and high humidity can potentially damage electronic equipment.

If the weather is too cold, your treadmill may cause static shock when there is little moisture in the air. To avoid this, keep a mat under the treadmill and wear exercise clothes made of cotton or bamboo, as nylon and polyester build a static charge.

Regularly Maintain Your Equipment

If you do not maintain your equipment, it will malfunction. Check for wear and tear by looking for cracks, tears, bends, or fraying wires. If you notice fraying wires, replace the equipment. Resistance bands will also tear over time and should be replaced. If you notice any noises, ask a certified technician to check your equipment for any damage.

Another way to maintain your equipment is by frequently lubricating the joints. Friction and heat can cause your equipment to wear over time. Lubricating your equipment will also prevent it from rusting. Check with the manufacturer before using a specific type of lubricant.

Many gym machines now have technology that reads speed, heart rate, and other physical activity measurements. If your equipment has software, updating the software will ensure it functions optimally. Manufacturer’s continuously upgrade their systems to give more advanced readings. If any technical issues appear, deal with them immediately.

Regular gym equipment maintenance and service will help you avoid potential accidents.

Do Not Misuse Your Equipment

Ensure you use your equipment for its intended purpose. Misusing equipment can destroy your equipment and cause it to eventually wear and tear. If you are unsure how to use specific equipment, read the instructor’s manual, ask the manufacturer, or watch a tutorial on how it works.

Conclusion

Having equipment that is suddenly not working or a musky roomy can discourage you from working out. It is important to take time to regularly clean your equipment and space. In addition, preventive maintenance will help with early intervention. Above all, get quality equipment that will not easily break down and will last you a long time. You can find quality equipment on a budget.