During cold and flu season, keeping your gym germ-free should be a priority. Martial arts gyms, with their high-contact training and shared equipment, can easily become breeding grounds for bacteria, viruses, and fungi. How can you keep your gym safe this season? Don’t worry, you can maintain a clean, safe environment. Here’s how to kill bacteria and minimize the spread of illness in your gym. 

The Best Ways to Clean Your Mats

Your gym’s martial arts mats are ground zero for bacteria. Sweat, skin cells, and bodily contact can create the perfect storm for germs to thrive. Regular cleaning is crucial, but it’s important to clean mats the right way to protect both your students and the mats themselves. 

1. Use Approved Mat Cleaners Only: Many cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can degrade your mats over time. Always choose an approved mat cleaner specifically designed for martial arts mats. These cleaners are effective at killing bacteria, fungi, and viruses without causing damage to the mat’s surface. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper dilution and application. 
2. Clean Mats After Every Training Session: Mats should be cleaned immediately after each class or training session to prevent bacteria and germs from lingering. Use a mop or cleaning tool designed for mats and ensure the entire surface is disinfected. Pay extra attention to corners and seams where dirt and sweat can accumulate. 
3. Deep Clean Weekly: While daily cleanings are vital, a weekly deep clean is necessary to ensure thorough sanitization. Remove the mats, if possible, and clean both sides. This is also a good time to inspect the mats for wear and tear. 
4. Dry Thoroughly: Moisture left on mats can lead to mold and mildew. Always let mats air dry completely before the next use. 
5. Educate Your Students to Keep Everyone Safe: Your cleaning efforts will only go so far if your students aren’t doing their part. Educating them on good hygiene practices can drastically reduce the spread of germs. 
6. Encourage Clean Gear: Ensure that students wash their uniforms, gloves, and other training gear after every session. Remind them that wearing dirty gear increases the risk of spreading bacteria to themselves and others. 
7. Promote Personal Hygiene: Ask students to shower before training if possible and always after training. Provide hand sanitizing stations throughout the gym and encourage frequent use. 
8. Have a "Stay Home When Sick" Policy: Make it clear that students who are feeling unwell or showing symptoms of illness should stay home. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of spreading illnesses during cold and flu season. 
9. Require Foot Hygiene: Shoes shouldn’t be worn on training mats, but barefoot training can still pose risks. Encourage students to clean their feet before stepping onto the mat and provide foot-cleaning stations if possible. 

Other Ways to Keep Your Training Space Clean and Germ-Free

In addition to cleaning your mats and educating your students, you should also focus on the overall cleanliness of your training space. 

1. Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces: Door handles, water fountains, and locker room benches are hotspots for bacteria. Wipe these areas down regularly with disinfectant wipes or sprays. 
2. Improve Ventilation: Proper air circulation reduces the concentration of airborne germs. Invest in a high-quality HVAC system with HEPA filters and ensure your gym is well-ventilated. 
3. Wash Wall Pads and Heavy Bags: Don’t forget about wall pads and heavy bags. These surfaces also accumulate sweat and germs. Clean them regularly with approved disinfectants. 
4. Use Antimicrobial Mats and Pads: Consider upgrading to antimicrobial mats and wall pads, which are designed to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. While they won’t replace regular cleaning, they add an extra layer of protection. 
5. Provide Cleaning Supplies for Students: Place disinfectant sprays and wipes around the gym so students can clean shared equipment like weights, gloves, or focus pads after use. 

A Clean Gym Is a Healthy Gym

Cold and flu season doesn’t have to derail your training schedule. By following these cleaning practices, educating your students, and maintaining a proactive approach, you can keep your gym a safe and welcoming space for everyone. And remember, cleanliness isn’t just about avoiding illness, it’s about showing your students and staff that their health and well-being are your top priorities.