Staying fit with allergies: How to manage allergens at the gym
Posted: 15th January 2025 | Posted by Costa
Staying fit with allergies: How to manage allergens at the gym
None of us are new to the *new year, new me* memes floating around Instagram. January marks a fresh start for many, (us included!) with fitness goals at the top of the list. Whether you’re joining a gym, returning after a break, or diving into a new workout routine, staying active is a great way to begin 2025 on the right foot. But for those with allergies or sensitivities, gyms and fitness environments can be riddled with unexpected triggers.
From latex equipment to chemical cleaners, allergens can sneak into your workouts and sabotage your fitness journey. Here’s how to manage them so you can focus on smashing your goals instead of battling reactions.
Common allergens lurking at the gym
While gyms are designed for health and wellness, they can be problematic for allergy sufferers due to:
- Latex in equipment: Resistance bands, yoga mats, and even weightlifting gloves often contain latex, a common allergen.
- Dust and mould: Poorly ventilated or rarely cleaned areas, especially in older gyms, can harbor dust mites and mould spores.
- Cleaning products: Harsh chemicals and fragrances in sprays or wipes used to clean equipment can irritate sensitive skin or lungs.
- Fragrances and perfumes: Fellow gym-goers wearing strong deodorants or perfumes can trigger reactions in those with scent sensitivities.
- Chlorine in pools: Swimming pools use chlorine to disinfect water, but exposure can aggravate skin and respiratory allergies.
- Protein powders and shakes: Many gyms sell or provide post-workout supplements containing common allergens like nuts, dairy, or soy.
How to recognise allergy symptoms during workouts
It’s important to distinguish between a typical post-workout response and an allergy. Watch for these symptoms during or after exercise:
- Respiratory symptoms: Wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath beyond normal exertion.
- Skin irritation: Rashes, redness, or itching where your skin comes into contact with equipment.
- Eye discomfort: Itchy, watery, or red eyes, particularly in poorly ventilated areas.
- Stomach upset: Bloating, cramps, or nausea after consuming protein shakes or snacks.
If you notice recurring symptoms tied to your workouts, an underlying allergy may be to blame.
Tips for managing gym allergies
- Opt for allergy-safe equipment
- Bring your own yoga mat or resistance bands made from non-latex materials.
- Wipe down shared equipment thoroughly before use, and consider wearing gloves for added protection.
- Choose fragrance-free options
- Request unscented cleaning sprays from gym staff or bring your own wipes.
- If you’re sensitive to perfumes, find gyms with fragrance-free policies or attend at quieter times.
- Keep your environment fresh
- Look for gyms with good ventilation and avoid poorly maintained areas.
- If you have a chlorine sensitivity but love swimming, consider gyms with saltwater pools or less harsh alternatives.
- Be mindful of supplements
- Check ingredient labels on protein powders and shakes for allergens like nuts, dairy, or soy.
- Consider bringing your own allergy-friendly snack or shake to refuel safely after your workout.
- Protect yourself during workouts
- Shower immediately after exercise to wash off sweat, chlorine, and any lingering allergens.
- Wear moisture-wicking clothing to reduce skin irritation and prevent rashes.
The link between exercise and allergies
Did you know exercise itself can sometimes exacerbate allergy symptoms? Known as exercise-induced anaphylaxis, this rare but serious condition can occur when physical activity interacts with certain foods or environmental allergens. Symptoms might include hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect this is affecting you, consult a doctor and avoid eating trigger foods before workouts.
Start the year strong and allergy-free
The last thing you need while working on your fitness goals is to be sidelined by avoidable allergies. If you’ve noticed symptoms but aren’t sure what’s triggering them, now is the perfect time to find out.
Register as a new patient with us today for a comprehensive evaluation at our London-based allergy clinic or prefer the convenience of our home allergy test and make 2025 the year you achieve your fitness goals without compromise.