Ringworm and Exercise: Can You Sweat It Out at the Gym?

AvatarByJeff Duncan Workout

Ringworm is a common skin infection that affects people of all ages and can be easily contracted through skin-to-skin contact or by sharing personal items such as towels or clothing. Its name might suggest a connection with worms, but rest assured, there are no actual worms involved. Instead, it is caused by a type of fungus that creates round, red patches on the skin. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, many individuals wonder if they can still continue their workout routine while dealing with this pesky infection. In this article, we will explore the question of “Can I workout with ringworm?” and provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision without compromising your health and fitness goals. So let’s dive in!

Ringworm is a common fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails. Despite its name, it is not caused by a worm, but rather by a fungus called dermatophytes. It is highly contagious and can spread easily through direct contact with an infected person or an object contaminated with the fungus.

One of the most common questions asked about ringworm is whether it is safe to continue working out while dealing with this infection. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide detailed information about working out with ringworm.

Understanding Ringworm and its Symptoms

Before we dive into answering whether you can workout with ringworm, let’s first understand what this infection is and how it manifests in the body.

Ringworm appears as raised, red circular patches on the skin that may be scaly or crusty. It can occur on any part of the body, including the scalp, hands, feet, groin area, and even on the face. These patches may be itchy or painful and can also cause a burning sensation.

If you have ringworm on your scalp or beard area, you may experience hair loss in those areas. In some cases, multiple patches may merge together to form larger areas of infection.

Aside from these physical symptoms, you may also experience fatigue and weakness due to your body’s immune response to the infection. If left untreated, ringworm can persist for weeks or even months.

The Contagious Nature of Ringworm

Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread easily through direct contact with infected skin or objects that have come into contact with an infected person. This means that if you have ringworm on any part of your body, you should take precautions to prevent spreading it to others.

Sharing towels, clothing, or other personal items with someone who has ringworm increases your risk of contracting the infection. It is also possible to get ringworm from animals such as cats, dogs, and farm animals.

Can I Workout with Ringworm?

Now that we have a better understanding of ringworm and how it spreads, let’s address the main question: can you workout with ringworm? The short answer is no.

Working out with ringworm can worsen the infection and make it spread more rapidly. The combination of sweat and friction from your workout clothes can irritate the patches and cause them to become more inflamed. This can also cause the fungus to spread to other areas of your body or to other people if you come into contact with them.

Moreover, sharing gym equipment or mats while having ringworm puts others at risk of contracting the infection. It is always best to avoid any physical contact if you have ringworm, so working out in a public gym may not be a good idea until the infection has cleared.

Alternative Methods of Exercising

If working out in a public gym is not recommended while dealing with ringworm, what are some alternative methods of staying active? The good news is that there are still ways for you to maintain an exercise routine without risking the spread of infection.

Firstly, opt for low-impact exercises that do not involve sweating too much or require heavy physical contact. This can include activities like yoga, pilates, walking, or light jogging. These exercises can still provide a workout for your body without causing irritation to your skin.

Secondly, consider working out at home using online workout videos or apps. This way, you can control your environment and ensure that all surfaces are clean and free from any fungus that may cause re-infection.

Treating Ringworm

If you do decide to continue working out while dealing with ringworm, it is important to seek treatment and take precautions to prevent spreading the infection. Antifungal creams, lotions, or oral medication may be prescribed by your doctor to help clear the infection.

It is also important to keep the affected area clean and dry, as fungi thrive in warm and moist environments. Avoid touching the infected area unnecessarily and wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading the infection.

While it may be frustrating to put your workout routine on hold while dealing with ringworm, it is essential to prioritize your health and that of others. Working out with ringworm can not only worsen the infection but also put others at risk of contracting it.

Always seek treatment and follow good hygiene practices while treating ringworm. Remember to also avoid sharing personal items or coming into direct contact with others until the infection has cleared completely. With proper care and treatment, you can get back to your regular workout routine in no time.

Symptoms of Ringworm

Ringworm, also known as tinea corporis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin. Despite its name, it is not caused by a worm. It gets its name from the ring-like shape that the infection often takes on. Ringworm can affect any part of the body, including the scalp, nails, and feet, but most commonly appears on the arms, legs, and torso.

The symptoms of ringworm vary depending on the location of the infection. On the skin, it usually starts as a small red bump that gradually grows larger in size and spreads outward. The center of the rash may clear up as it spreads, creating a ring-like appearance. The affected area may be itchy or have a burning sensation and can become scaly or inflamed.

If ringworm affects the scalp, it can cause patchy hair loss and scaling. If it affects the nails, they may become thickened or discolored. In rare cases, ringworm can even affect internal organs such as the lungs or digestive tract.

Causes of Ringworm

Ringworm is caused by a type of fungus called dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm and moist environments and are highly contagious. They can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, sharing contaminated items such as towels or clothing, or coming into contact with surfaces that have been touched by an infected individual.

People who have weakened immune systems or skin injuries are more susceptible to developing ringworm. It is also more common in crowded environments where close contact with others is frequent.

Workout Considerations for Ringworm

If you have been diagnosed with ringworm and are wondering if you can still continue your workout routine, there are a few things to consider.

Firstly, if your rash is located on an area of skin that is covered by clothing, such as your back or chest, you can still continue your workout routine as long as you keep the affected area covered. This will prevent the infection from spreading to others.

However, if the rash is on an area that is not covered by clothing, such as your arms or legs, it is best to refrain from working out until the infection has cleared up. Sweat and friction from exercise can irritate the rash and may cause it to spread further.

Preventing the Spread of Ringworm

To prevent spreading ringworm to others and re-infecting yourself, there are some precautions you should take during your workout.

Firstly, avoid sharing personal items such as towels, clothing, and equipment. If you need to use communal items at a gym or fitness center, be sure to clean them thoroughly with disinfectant before and after use.

It’s also important to practice good hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap and water. This will help prevent spreading the infection if you touch other areas of your body after touching an infected area.

If you have ringworm on your feet (also called athlete’s foot), avoid going barefoot in communal areas like locker rooms or showers. Wear socks made from breathable materials like cotton and change them frequently if they become sweaty.

Treating Ringworm

If you have been diagnosed with ringworm, it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommended treatment plan. This may involve antifungal medication in the form of cream, gel, or oral tablets. It’s important to continue treatment until the infection has completely cleared up to prevent it from coming back.

In addition to medication, there are some things you can do to help soothe symptoms and promote healing. Applying cold compresses or using over-the-counter anti-itch creams can help relieve itching and inflammation. Be sure not to scratch the affected area as this can cause the infection to spread.

Keeping the affected area clean and dry can also help speed up the healing process. Drying your skin thoroughly after bathing and using a clean towel each time can help prevent the fungus from thriving in a moist environment.

While it may be frustrating to put your workout routine on hold while dealing with ringworm, it’s important to prioritize your health and prevent spreading the infection to others. With proper treatment and precautions, ringworm should clear up within a few weeks. If symptoms persist or worsen, be sure to consult with your doctor for further guidance. Remember to practice good hygiene and take preventive measures to avoid future infections. Stay healthy and happy!

1. Can I workout with ringworm?
Yes, it is generally safe to continue your workouts while you have ringworm. However, it is important to take certain precautions and avoid spreading the infection.

2. Is it recommended to cover the affected area while working out?
Yes, it is best to keep the affected area covered while working out to prevent the spread of ringworm. Make sure to use clean and dry bandages or clothing to cover the area.

3. Can I participate in group fitness classes if I have ringworm?
It is not recommended to participate in group fitness classes if you have ringworm as it can easily spread through close contact with others. It is best to let your skin heal before returning to group activities.

4. Should I avoid using shared gym equipment if I have ringworm?
Yes, it is important to avoid using shared gym equipment such as mats, weights, and machines if you have ringworm. The fungus can survive on surfaces for a long time and can easily spread to others.

5. How should I clean and disinfect gym equipment after using it if I have ringworm?
After using gym equipment, make sure to wipe it down with a disinfectant solution that contains bleach or alcohol. This will help kill any remaining fungus on the surface of the equipment.

6. Can I take a break from my workouts until my ringworm clears up?
If you feel uncomfortable working out with ringworm or are concerned about spreading the infection, then taking a break from your workouts until your skin heals may be a good idea. Listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if needed.

In conclusion, it is possible to workout with ringworm as long as certain precautions are taken. While ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection, it can be effectively managed by following proper hygiene practices and seeking medical treatment. Before working out, it is important to cover the affected areas and avoid sharing personal items in order to prevent spreading the infection. It is also important to listen to your body and take breaks if necessary. Although exercise can boost the immune system and help in recovery, it should not be done at the expense of one’s health. Additionally, seeking medical advice and treatment for ringworm is essential to prevent further complications and ensure a prompt recovery. Remember that self-care must always come first and engaging in physical activity while infected with ringworm should only be done after careful consideration of its potential risks. With proper care and caution, those with ringworm can continue their fitness journey while effectively managing their infection.

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Jeff Duncan
Jeff Duncan, the owner and Head Coach of CrossFit Pearl District, is dedicated to fostering a supportive and effective training environment.

With a strong belief in the principles of movement mechanics, consistency, and intensity, Jeff has cultivated a community that thrives on continuous improvement and mutual support.

From 2024, Jeff Duncan has expanded his passion for CrossFit beyond coaching by writing an informative blog dedicated to the CrossFit niche. His blog features a variety of content aimed at providing valuable information and insights to the CrossFit community.

Jeff’s posts cover a wide range of topics including training techniques, nutrition advice, workout routines, and answers to common queries within the niche. This transition to blogging allows Jeff to reach a broader audience, sharing his expertise and helping individuals at all levels of their fitness journey.