The exercise mat is personal. Unlike many accessories and much of our workout equipment, the exercise mat should never be shared. It's a matter of hygiene and cleanliness. Perhaps, a few years ago this would not have been such an issue but today it is a primary concern.
Many of us go to exercise class with friends or we exercise at home with close friends. The workout is much easier for some of us if we engage in group activities. Working out in a group seems to keep our energy levels elevated. Going to the gym with a friend keeps us motivated. Seeing others in our exercise classes firming up and losing a few unwanted pounds is inspirational. So, there are obviously benefits to participating in an exercise program that involves others.
We may share our workout weights or our stepping block. However, we should never share our exercise mats. Again, it is a matter of hygiene and being health conscious. In today's world we have all read articles and seen television news clips about kids who contract MRSA in the school locker room. MRSA seems to thrive in sweaty locker rooms.
That brings us to our exercise mats. While exercising we all sweat and excrete moisture through our skin. When we use our exercise mats it is not uncommon for that moisture to be transferred to the surface of the mat. While we may all be healthy, we never know what kind of bacteria can be transferred by sharing our workout mats.
Think of this scenario. We use our exercise mat. We sweat. We move on to the treadmill and a friend asks us if they can use our exercise mat. Let's say they left theirs at home. It is difficult to say no. However, we would not share our toothbrushes. We would not drink from the same glass. We would not eat from the same fork. Sharing our exercise mats is close to being the same thing.
You have deposited your sweat on the mat during your use of it. Your friend is going to work up a sweat and some of it will be deposited on the mat. The next time you use the mat you are going to come in contact with the residue of both. This is the way bacteria can be transferred from one person to another.
If you need any more warning, think of the articles you have read of children and teenagers who were very active and physically fit, yet contracted MRSA or another bacteria by using a friend's sweaty towel or handling something in the locker room. With the super bugs today, there is not reason to take any risks. Stay safe. Do not share your exercise mat with anyone. In fact, most mats are inexpensive enough that it could be cheaper to buy one for a friend than risk getting sick from sharing yours.
