Germs and Infections You Could Catch at the Gym

Folliculitis

What It Is: An inflammation of the hair follicles on your body that may be caused by sweat and heat (heat rash), bacteria, and fungus, among many other causes,” says Ross Radusky, MD, dermatologist at SoHo Skin & Laser Dermatology, PC. In the case of a heat rash, the pressure from your clothes can choke off hair follicles. Bacterial and fungal folliculitis can be spread by sharing towels and loofa sponges, says Dr. Radusky. Read one woman’s story of how her sweaty workout leggings gave her a skin infection. Symptoms: Look for red, sometimes tender bumps around each hair follicle. There may or may not be pus.