"Recently, multiple studies have been published examining the prevalence of popular microorganisms common to the gym environment such as bacteria, fungi, algae and viruses. Such readily available information gives customers a legitimate cause to worry and gym owners enough headaches to want to purchase stock in Tylenol. Comparing the bacteria levels from 27 pieces of popular gym equipment in three separate clubs to common everyday items, FitRated revealed the following:

• Exercise bikes had 39 times more bacteria than a cafeteria tray

• Free weights had 362 times more bacteria than a toilet seat

• Treadmills had 72 times more bacteria than a water faucet

Additionally, the report cites that over 70 percent of the bacteria found can be harmful to humans..."