Why Do I Have to Wear a T-Shirt?
There are many different infections and diseases you can get from going to a facility to work out or play in a team environment such as, MRSA, Ringworm and other contagions. Our main concern is to maintain a safe environment for our patrons. That does not just apply to the kind of equipment we purchase or the cleanliness of the Student Recreation Center. It applies to the hygiene of the surroundings. Even though we do all these things listed below, we can’t guarantee 100% hygienic environment.
- we installed non-alcohol based hand sanitizer in facility, for patrons to clean their hands before and after their workout.
- we provide the patrons with disinfectant cleaners and rags to wipe machines before and after use to prevent spread¬ing of germs/bacteria.
- we have staff that thoroughly cleans machines, mats, and benches continuously throughout the hours the facility is open.
Beginning this fall 2016 Campus Recreation will require that patrons participating in any program in the Student Recreation Center to wear a t-shirt or cap sleeved shirt and appropriate lower body apparel.
Our definition of “any program” will be open recreation, climbing wall, group fitness, intramurals, sport clubs, and working out on the fitness floors.
Our definition of a t-shirt or cap sleeved shirt does not include cut off sleeves, tank top, crop-top shirt, or a sports bra. Lower body apparel will be defined as gym shorts, warm up pants, running pants, yoga pants, and spandex shorts that cover all areas of the glutes.
If you wear any apparel other than what is required you will be asked to change your apparel.
MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus) is a staph infection that can cause irritation on the skin in the form of a pimple or a boil. It can be red, swollen, or fluid filled. If left untreated, it can cause pneumonia or bloodstream infections. MRSA can also have flu-like symptoms. Yes, it can be treated by antibiotics or by drain¬age of the infection, but these forms only account for 1% of staph infections and is resistant to many antibiotics. It is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.
Ringworm is another infection that is commonly associated with work out facilities. Ringworm is a contagious fungus infection that can affect the scalp, the body (particularly the groin), the feet, and the nails. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with worms. The name comes from the characteristic red ring that can appear on an infected person’s skin. People can get Ringworm from direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or indirect contact with an object or surface that an infected person has touched. Ringworm can be treated with fungus-killing medicine.
We recommend the following after you work out:
- You should shower after a workout.
- You can wash your hands with soap and water or use a non-alcohol based hand rub before and after your workout.
- You should always cover skin abrasions or infections with a clean, dry bandage to avoid exposing your open wounds to germs and bacteria.
- You can use a towel as a barrier between yourself and the equipment. You should also wipe equipment before and after use.
We want your experience working out or playing in the Student Recreation Center to be a pleasant one, and also a hygienic one.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Dr. Gambino
Director, Campus Recreation