Nobody wants their vacation cut short or their fight postponed due to a nasty skin infection. At some point, it’s inevitable when training in the tropics. The heat and humidity are breeding grounds for bacteria, especially for those who didn’t grow up here.
Bangtao takes gym hygiene extremely seriously. We have a dedicated team of cleaners on hand all day long. Having been in the game for decades as athletes, fighters, and coaches, we know how frustrating it can be when training is interrupted by a largely preventable issue. That’s why we go above and beyond to maintain a clean training environment so that you can focus on your progress, avoiding any setbacks along the way.
But there’s a lot you can do too to keep you and your fellow training partners as safe as possible. Here are our top five tips and tricks for personal gear sanitation:
The Sun is Your Best Friend
Take a cue from the locals and make the most of the blazing Thai sun. Walking through the side streets of Bangtao, you’ll often see locals laying out all sorts of items – mats, shoes, bedding, and more – basking in the sun. It’s not just a cultural habit; it’s scientifically proven. The UV rays in sunlight can kill both bacteria and viruses. It doesn’t take long either; depending on how damp your items are, 30 minutes to an hour should be sufficient. Be careful, however, of leaving things in the sun for too long because it can damage your stuff too.
Dry Things Out ASAP
Another thing humidity is known for is mold! And it’s amazing how fast it can grow here. While we understand the need to stuff everything in your gym bag before going home, do not leave your gear in there for longer than needed. This goes for everything from running shoes to hand wraps – dry that out. We also recommend drying out your training apparel if you’re not going to wash it right away. Throwing your soaking-wet Muay Thai shorts into your laundry basket is a surefire way to invite mold and odors to set in quickly. Dry first; wash later.
Wash Those Running Shoes
To the best of our knowledge, washing running shoes isn’t really a thing in the West – but it definitely is here in Thailand. With the extra sweat from running, monsoon season, bacteria-laden stagnant water, and the ever-present city grime, washing your runners is essential. Muay Thai fighters typically wash their shoes at least once a month; it’s just part of gym culture and etiquette here. After washing, stuff crumpled paper into your shoes to help them maintain shape and absorb excess moisture. If you do dry them in the sun, don’t leave them out for too long. Too much sun exposure can cause your shoes to lose color and wear down the fabric.
Keep Wounds Clean
This may seem like a no-brainer to most, but it’s serious business here in Thailand. Most gyms stock up on iodine in bulk because it’s essential for wound care. Iodine kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it the go-to solution for treating any injury. Even something as small as a blister on your toe, if not cleaned properly, can quickly turn into a full-blown infection. The proper method for cleaning wounds is to wash the cut with saline solution, let it dry, and then apply a generous amount of iodine. It’s also important to cover the wound in a way that allows airflow.
Buy Your Own Gear (or rent)
We understand that gear can take up a lot of space in your suitcase, and those just passing through might not be ready to invest in their own boxing gloves. For this reason, we offer gear rentals, with each item thoroughly sanitized and dried after every use. If you’re serious about training, however, we highly recommend getting your own gear. Our fully stocked shop offers premium Bangtao gloves, with dedicated staff ready to answer any questions. Having your own gear helps ensure proper hygiene for both you and your teammates.