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6 Reasons Your Gym is Toxic

No one goes to the gym intending to get sick. The gym is a place of wellness, fitness, and improved physicality. Or is it? Many people, attempting to reap the incredible benefits of exercise, sign up for a gym membership and spend hours each week locked inside a toxic environment, all in the name of health. 

Exercise is critical for health, and daily movement is the key to helping you achieve your 100 Year Heart. However, you might want to exercise somewhere other than the gym. Here’s why.

Toxins lurking in your gym

Volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) and allergens

You might be working out in the gym because you live in a city and want to get away from the polluted air. Unfortunately, your gym is likely even more toxic. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that indoor air pollutants are five times higher than outdoor air pollutants.

While this is certainly true in your home, it is even more of an issue at the gym. Hundreds of people pass through every day, bringing dust particles and heavily perfumed products and deodorant and fragranced, toxic laundry detergent — releasing VOCs into an enclosed, poorly ventilated space. 

A study by the University of Lisbon and Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands evaluated the air quality levels of 11 gyms during business hours. They found toxic VOC levels exceeding the national limit values, especially in enclosed gym rooms during fitness classes. The researchers also discovered significant amounts of potentially toxic airborne dust.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde can contribute to upper respiratory infections, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. VOCs can come in with gym customers or cleaning products used to keep the equipment germ-free (more on this later), paint, and exercise equipment and mats.

Excess carbon dioxide

The same study found high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in Lisbon gyms. High CO2 levels mean there is insufficient oxygen in the air. This is common in gyms since exercise increases respiration and CO2 expulsion. This results in a crowded gym of people working out and breathing in carbon dioxide instead of oxygen.

Many gyms have inefficient HVAC filters and pump recycled air through their ventilation system. Enclosed rooms in the gym allow this toxic air to build up, and it has no way to dissipate quickly. After all, when was the last time you went to a gym that had open windows for air circulation? Likely never. 

Excess carbon dioxide inhalation is connected to fatigue, asthma, rapid heart rate, and breathing issues. Not exactly what you want to experience when you’re trying to get your workout on. 

No sunshine 

While this isn’t an issue strictly related to the gym, it is a considerable concern with the rise in the popularity of indoor workouts. Our bodies need regular sunshine exposure to boost vitamin D levels. Even if you work out next to a window in the gym, the glass blocks UVB rays that allow you to synthesize vitamin D. 

Though vitamin D supplementation is an acceptable way to make up for weak sunlight in the winter, there is no replacement for the sun’s power. Vitamin D is critical for proper heart function, bone health, neurological protection, and immune system regulation. 

The best way to get your daily dose of sunshine is by working out outdoors. You are exposed to harmful pollutants and robbed of the sun’s healing power when you stay inside. Exercising outdoors is linked to decreased stress, improved mood, better health, and deeper concentration. 

Cleaning products

There is nothing wrong with a clean gym. Most of us would agree that we would rather use sanitized equipment than equipment coated in sweat. However, in the quest for a sterile environment (especially in the age of Covid-19), many gyms use chemical-laden cleaning products.

Not only do these cleaning products release toxic VOCs (see above), they can also wreak havoc on your hormones. Many cleaning solutions used to disinfect gym machines are endocrine disruptors known as quaternary disinfectants. These chemicals interfere with estrogen and testosterone production and can even impact your liver, thyroid, and kidney function. 

Quaternary ammonium compounds could also contribute to lung sensitivities and even cause new asthma cases. 


Phenols, another common chemical in cleaning wipes and sprays, can cause skin irritation, muscle weakness, and cancer after long-term exposure. 

Germs and illness

Remember those toxic disinfectants? Unfortunately, they are not only dangerous for your health, but they’re not even used effectively in most cases. 

Gyms often encourage users to clean their equipment, but many people skip this step, and even if they do wipe down the weight bench, it is usually a single halfhearted swipe. Even if the equipment is wiped down, most disinfectant products need to sit on a surface for a few minutes to sanitize properly. 

Plus, many people go to the gym when they are sick, exposing others to potentially harmful illnesses and bacteria.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are particularly problematic in gyms, as the antibacterial resistant superbugs love hanging out in athletic facilities, saunas, and locker rooms. These high-touch areas can cause illness and infection to spread like wildfire, especially when proper cleaning protocols are not followed.

One 2014 study found Staph bacteria on every piece of gym equipment tested in four gyms. They took samples from weight machines, treadmills, free weights, and ellipticals and found 25 different kinds of potentially harmful bacteria. That doesn’t exactly instill confidence in the cleaning procedures of fitness facilities. 

Toxic gym culture

Though many gyms are places of positivity and encouragement, others tend to exude a toxic fitness culture that creates an environment of judgment and exclusivity. If you feel out of place in the gym or don’t want to go work out because you compare your fitness level or your body type to other people, get out! 

Everyone is worthy of getting in shape and if your excitement for working out is dampened by going to the gym, find another place to exercise. Grab a supportive friend and get outdoors together. The social interaction and accountability will help you enjoy your exercise and stay consistent.

What to do instead

Just because the gym is toxic doesn’t mean you should stop pursuing your fitness goals. You can often get a better, healthier workout at home or outdoors. Plus, you’ll save money on that pricey gym membership.

Instead of hitting the toxic gym, support your fitness goals, have fun, and protect your heart with these great outdoor exercises. Whatever you do, just get moving for at least 30 minutes each day. 

  • Go for a walk or a jog
  • Do yoga or tai chi outdoors
  • Use battling ropes staked in your yard
  • Swing a kettlebell or use dumbbells outside
  • Go for a bike ride
  • Plan a day hike

Try this full-body outdoor workout to help you quit the gym for good:

  • 10 minutes of walking or jogging to help you warm-up

Bodyweight circuit:

  • 20 squats 
  • 30-second plank
  • 20 jumping jacks
  • 30-second right-side plank
  • 20 lunges
  • 30-second left-side plank 
  • 15 push-ups

Repeat circuit two times with 10 minutes of walking or jogging in between. 

Remember to stretch!

Next steps

Unlike restaurants, hospitals, and grocery stores, gyms are not subject to health inspections. Many gyms fall slack on cleaning procedures and create environments for bacteria, illness, and toxins to thrive. Exercise safe and smart by staying outside.

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Medical Review 2022: Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD

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About Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD, FACC

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Dr. Lauren Lattanza Fees

20 Minute Virtual Call: $250

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As a Naturopathic Physician, I am trained to treat the whole person and get to the root cause of disease.

I went to Arizona State University where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a depth in physiology and minor in Spanish. After my undergraduate degree I was working on prerequisite classes towards medical school, which is when I came to learn that my values identified best with the principles of naturopathic medicine. I knew that I wanted to help patients identify the causes of disease and be able to offer treatments which would improve their health rather than simply treating symptoms.

I dedicated the next 4 years to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona where I attained my Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine. I served as Class President all 4 years, Board of Trustees – Student Trustee, spoke as the Club President for our branch of Toastmasters, and was voted by my peers and attending physicians to earn the Outstanding Leadership Award for the Class of 2020. Throughout medical school I took it upon myself to work alongside MDs, DOs, chiropractors, and functional medicine practitioners in addition to naturopathic physicians.

As a Spanish speaking student, I was able to volunteer with community clinics around Phoenix and provide free healthcare to low-income families. Due to this combined exposure, I came to find my passion in treating cardiometabolic and digestive disorders that are all too common, yet largely preventable. I took the opportunity to learn the broad spectrum of healthcare so I can ensure that I am able to provide my patients with the best options.

About Dr. Jack Wolfson DO, FACC

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30 Minute Virtual Call: $1500

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Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, Amazon best-selling author, husband, father, and the nation’s #1 Natural Heart Doctor.

For more than two decades, more than one million people have enjoyed the warmth, compassion, and transformational power of his natural heart health courses and events.

Dr. Wolfson is the founder of Natural Heart Doctor Scottsdale, his heart health practice in Arizona, and Natural Heart Doctor, an online resource center with natural health information. Doctors from across the globe reach out to Dr. Wolfson for training and education in holistic health practices.

He has been named one of America’s Top Functional Medicine Doctors and is a five-time winner of the Natural Choice Awards as a holistic M.D. Dr. Wolfson’s work has been covered by more than 100 media outlets, including NBC, CNN, and the Washington Post. His book “The Paleo Cardiologist: The Natural Way to Heart Health” was an Amazon #1 best-seller.

Dr. Wolfson and his wife Heather have four children and are committed to making the world a better place to live. They provide for those in need (including animals) and support natural health causes through their philanthropic efforts.

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Our chiropractor is an expert at adjustments and holistic chiropractic care and works closely in conjunction with the other health care experts at Natural Heart Doctor.

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We use specially formulated natural vitamins and minerals that are injected into a vein to prevent or treat dehydration. Ideal for people in Arizona.

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Stimulate your body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being with acupuncture at Natural Heart Doctor.

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Our health coaches use evidence based skillful conversation, clinical interventions, and strategies to engage you actively and safely in health behavior changes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’d like to receive an online second opinion from Natural Heart Doctor. What do I do next?

You can initiate a second opinion online through our website at any time. To begin, select the team member you’d like to speak with and open an account.

Click here for cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Lauren Lattanza. Get details.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Tonia Rainier. Get details.

Click here for  Natural Heart Doctor Health Coach.

Alternatively, you can email health@naturalheartdoctor.com. A member of our care team will help guide you through the process of starting a second opinion.

What is the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

The cost for most second opinions varies by team member. This fee includes information collection, a phone or video consultation, a second opinion from a Natural Heart Doctor specialist and guidance throughout the process from your personal Care Team at Natural Heart Doctor.

Cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson’s Second Opinion Fee is $1500.

Holistic Physician’s Dr. Lauren Lattanza’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Naturopathic Physician Dr. Tonia Rainier’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Note: We apply the Online Second Opinion Call fee as a credit to any future consultations with Natural Heart Doctor, should you choose them.

Will my insurance cover the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

Most likely, no. Most health plans do not cover online second opinions or consultations. You are responsible for the cost of our second opinion. Natural Heart Doctor cannot file a claim with your insurance carrier, nor can we provide a procedure (CPT) code for this service.

What is the timeline to receive an online second opinion?

We do our best to schedule your second opinion as quickly as possible. Typically, it takes 5 to 7 business days after your information has been collected to receive your phone or video online second opinion.

What information do you need in advance of our call?

Our office will send you a short questionnaire to complete and return. We DO NOT need your complete medical records.

How many questions can I ask the expert during our call?

You may ask a maximum of five questions. This is to ensure that the expert has sufficient time to devote to each question. All questions must be finalized before your online meeting.

What should I expect to receive once my second opinion is complete?

You will receive a summary of our discussion along with our second opinion. The second opinion will be in written form. After you have reviewed the second opinion, a Natural Heart Doctor clinician will follow up with you by phone to address general medical questions about the information provided in the second opinion.

What if I have follow-up questions for the expert after I have reviewed my second opinion?

If you have a clarifying question about an expert’s response to one of the questions in your second opinion, and the Natural Heart Doctor clinician is unable to address it, then you may request a follow up session for an additional fee. 

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Natural Heart Doctor is strongly committed to protecting the privacy and security of all our patients. Our website meets all federal requirements for protecting personal health information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). All financial transactions are processed by Natural Heart Doctor securely using industry standard payment processing tools.

I would rather visit Natural Heart Doctor for an in-person appointment. What should I do next?

If you would prefer an in-person appointment at Natural Heart Doctor instead of an online second opinion, please call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Can I schedule a follow up appointment with the specialist who provided my online second opinion?

Yes, we’re happy to help you on an extended basis. Our clinician can discuss options with you when presenting our second opinion summary.