"Dirtier Than a Toilet" – What Happens to the Bacteria Under Your Nails After a Workout? [Health Talk]

[The Financial News] A recent analysis suggests that the number of bacteria remaining under your fingernails after a gym workout can far exceed those found on a toilet seat. Even nails that look clean to the naked eye may harbor a significant amount of bacteria after exercise, calling for extra caution.
On the 21st (local time), the New York Post reported that sports betting site Stake collected fingernail samples from four adults after about an hour of exercise at a gym and used swabs to analyze the bacterial load. The analysis showed that the bacterial count detected under the nails was up to 10 times higher than that found on a typical toilet seat.


The investigation identified various bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus, bacilli, and Escherichia coli, which can cause skin infections, rashes, and gastrointestinal illnesses. Notably, even nails that appeared clean immediately after a workout contained more than 15,000 bacteria per single swab, a level that exceeds the bacterial counts often found on airplane tray tables.
The researchers concluded that bacteria were likely transferred to the hands from surfaces that many people touch repeatedly, such as exercise equipment and sweat-soaked mats. They noted that as people grip machines during workouts, bacteria can easily accumulate under the fingernails.
Fitness experts stressed, "These findings do not mean you should stop going to the gym," and advised, "You can significantly reduce the risk of bacterial infection simply by improving everyday hygiene habits."
Personal trainer Lee Metzel pointed out five common hygiene mistakes frequently seen at gyms: handing over equipment to others without wiping it down, touching your face with your hands during exercise, sharing personal items such as towels or water bottles, keeping long fingernails, and neglecting to wash your hands after a workout.


Metzel explained, "After using a bench or any piece of equipment, it is important to wipe the surface with disinfectant or wipes before moving on to your next exercise," adding, "To maximize the disinfecting effect, it is best to wait about two minutes after wiping." He went on, "When wiping away sweat, avoid touching your face directly with your hands and use a clean towel instead," and added, "Keep your nails short and regularly clean under them with a dedicated brush to help reduce bacterial growth."
After finishing a workout, it is recommended to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If a sink is not readily available, using hand sanitizer is a practical alternative. In addition, because gym shower areas are prone to mold and fungal growth, which can lead to athlete's foot, eczema, and other foot conditions, wearing slippers is advised.


hsg@fnnews.com Reporter Han Seung-gon Reporter