One of the hidden dangers : building pollution
With increasing demand, gyms have sprung up like mushrooms after rain. However, all newly built gyms inevitably generate some level of building pollution, such as ammonia, radioactive radon, and formaldehyde and benzene compounds from decorations and interior furniture. Ammonia mainly comes from concrete antifreeze agents; radon is found in building cement, slag bricks, decorative stone, and soil, and its main health hazard is lung cancer. Formaldehyde primarily comes from various types of wood-based panels, such as engineered wood. Benzene compounds are mainly found in paints, adhesives, and various interior wall coatings, and can also be carcinogenic or cause blood disorders.
Second hidden danger : noise pollution
Exercising in the gym, following a trainer and listening to upbeat music, is a thrilling experience for many. However, few realize that while music is key to creating a positive atmosphere in the gym, uncontrolled volume can be a killer for hearing. It's also a form of noise pollution. Prolonged exposure to noise can disrupt the function of the endocrine system and sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased adrenaline secretion and a range of symptoms including vasoconstriction, elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate, headaches, forgetfulness, decreased concentration, weakened digestion, and physical and mental decline. Furthermore, noise can accelerate myocardial aging and increase the incidence of myocardial infarction. National regulations stipulate that dynamic noise levels in entertainment venues must not exceed 85 decibels.
Third hidden danger : air pollution
Some gyms are small and crowded. Dust from exercise, as well as shed clothing, shoes, socks, and skin, contribute to indoor air pollution. These particulate matter, less than 5μm in diameter, can be inhaled and even penetrate the lungs. Inhalable particulate matter can not only act as a carrier for microorganisms but also contain toxic substances or other pathogens and carcinogens. Furthermore, crowded and poorly ventilated indoor spaces can lead to increased carbon dioxide concentrations, causing nausea, headaches, and other discomfort. Studies have shown that the amount of carbon dioxide produced varies depending on activity level, reaching about 10 times that of rest during vigorous activity. Normally, indoor carbon dioxide concentrations do not exceed 0.15%, but gym concentrations are 4-5 times higher than normal. In addition, the large amounts of odors and microorganisms released from the body during exercise also contribute to indoor air pollution.
Fourth hidden danger : injuries from fitness equipment
We often hear about injuries occurring in gyms. In fact, injuries caused by gym equipment are mainly due to many gym-goers' lack of knowledge about the equipment, especially newcomers who have no idea how to use it. Some gyms offer equipment training to new members, while others do not. Furthermore, some exercise equipment lacks safety measures, and the equipment is improperly placed. For example, gym-goers may be distracted by other equipment while using it, leading to accidents.
Fifth hidden danger : The health of fitness enthusiasts
Currently, most fitness centers do not conduct rigorous medical examinations when issuing memberships. Except for a few very large gyms that require medical certificates, most accept all applicants without question. However, fitness must be tailored to the individual; not everyone's physical condition is suitable for exercise. Reputable fitness clubs require applicants to provide a detailed health check report to prove they are capable of high-intensity exercise. If an applicant has poor cardiovascular function, a more sedentary workout is recommended; for those with excess body fat, the intensity must be controlled. Furthermore, individuals with infectious diseases working out at gyms may pose a health risk to others.
Sixth potential hazard : Hygiene of fitness equipment
Public gym equipment is prone to transmitting diseases and should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. However, the hygiene conditions of gym equipment in many gyms are alarming. Hygiene tests show that the handles of many gym machines carry 16,000 to 58,000 pathogenic microorganisms, with some reaching over 200,000. The types of pathogens are also diverse, including Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, hepatitis viruses, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, influenza viruses, Chlamydia trachomatis, Shigella, and many more. It is understood that many gyms lack proper disinfection procedures for their equipment, sometimes failing to even guarantee daily disinfection. Since gym equipment is shared, the lack of cleaning and disinfection easily leads to cross-infection. Contracting a disease while exercising is truly a losing proposition.
Hidden danger seven : Improper exercise can harm the body
When people go to the gym, they rarely choose to have a personal trainer accompany them. The main reasons for this, besides the limited number of trainers in gyms, are the hefty cost of a single session. A personal trainer's job is to guide members on how to properly use gym equipment and, based on individual physical conditions, help them choose appropriate workout routines. This not only prevents injuries caused by blindly exercising but also provides support should any issues arise. While gyms have floor instructors, their role is to serve the entire gym, and they may be overwhelmed and unable to attend to every situation. Therefore, without a trainer's guidance and experience in emergency response, it's difficult for gym-goers to receive timely treatment if injured.
In short, the initial purpose of going to the gym is to improve health. However, gyms do have some safety hazards, and gym-goers should be careful when choosing a gym. Health is no small matter and should never be taken lightly. If exercising leads to injury, it is truly a case of losing more than you gain.
