Wrestling Hygiene is essential to a Wrestling team.

I recently wrote an article on defense soap for wrestlers. After writing the article, I started thinking about how important good hygiene is to the sport of wrestling.

Wrestling is a close contact sport.  It is incredibly easy to spread skin infections and other diseases to your whole wrestling team.  I’ve seen wrestlers who had to miss important competitions because of skin infections.

It’s important that your wrestling organization practice good hygiene. This includes coaches, trainers, wrestlers, and parents. I want to cover the aspects of good hygiene for wrestlers.

This is a comprehensive guide to wrestling hygiene. I hope you enjoy article and learn something new today. Before we divine, a quick disclosure:

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Click here for more details.

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Health & Hygiene: Wrestling Skin Infections

Wrestling is a contact sport and health and hygiene should be a priority.  Wrestlers are in constant contact with each other and can pass skin infections such as ringworms, impetigo, and staph infection.

All of these skin infections are extremely contagious and you could infect an entire wrestling room full of wrestlers.    The big question is How to Prevent Skin Infections?

Health & Hygiene Tips for Wrestling

Common skin infections can be avoided in wrestling with some basic common sense.  Let’s explore some tips and healthy hygiene to prevent wrestling skin diseases

Shower After Wrestling Practice or Competition

The best way to prevent wrestling skin diseases is by taking a shower immediately after wrestling practice.   If a wrestler doesn’t shower right after practice, then as soon as you get home.

In addition to immediate post-practice showering, there are a few more proactive measures you can take to safeguard against wrestling skin diseases and promote overall skin health.

1. Cleanse with Antimicrobial Soap: Incorporating an antimicrobial or antibacterial soap into your shower routine can help eliminate harmful bacteria and fungi that may linger on the skin after practice. Pay extra attention to areas prone to friction and sweat buildup.
   
2. Use Clean and Dry Gear: Ensure that your wrestling gear, including singlets, headgear, and shoes, is regularly washed and thoroughly dried. Bacteria and fungi thrive in damp environments, so keeping your gear clean and dry is crucial in preventing skin infections.
   
3. Apply Antifungal Powder: After showering, consider using antifungal powders on susceptible areas of the skin. These powders help absorb excess moisture, reduce friction, and create an inhospitable environment for skin infections.
   
4. Maintain Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall skin health. Proper hydration helps your skin function as a barrier against pathogens. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin adequately moisturized from the inside out.
   
5. Regularly Wash and Replace Towels: Towels can harbor bacteria if not washed and replaced regularly. After each shower, use a clean towel, and make sure to wash your towels frequently. This practice prevents the transfer of potential contaminants to your skin.
   

Clean the Wrestling Mats Before and After Practice

I’ve heard some people say that cleaning the mats before any practice or competition is sufficient, but I disagree.

I have one example I can think of… the high school wrestlers finish their practice and the little league wrestlers start their practice.  The mats were never cleaned after high school practice. Now the possibility of transmitting skin diseases to our wrestlers is a real threat.  Cleaning the mats after practice prevents that.

Maintaining meticulous mat hygiene is a pivotal aspect of preventing skin infections among wrestlers. Here’s a closer look at the importance of cleaning mats both before and after practice:

Before Practice: Preventative Measures

1. Routine Disinfection: Regularly disinfecting the wrestling mats before practice is essential. This practice helps eliminate any lingering bacteria, fungi, or viruses that might have survived from previous sessions. A thorough disinfection routine sets the stage for a clean and safe practice environment.
   
2. Use Antimicrobial Solutions: Employing antimicrobial cleaning solutions specifically designed for wrestling mats can be highly effective. These solutions not only eliminate potential pathogens but also create an inhospitable environment for their growth, bolstering the overall cleanliness of the mats.
   
3. Establish a Pre-Practice Protocol: Implementing a pre-practice cleaning protocol ensures that every practice begins on a hygienic note. This routine can involve designated individuals responsible for mat cleaning or a collective effort from the entire wrestling community to maintain a clean and safe space.

After Practice: Post-Practice Clean-Up

1. Immediate Clean-Up: Promptly cleaning the mats after practice is equally crucial. Wrestlers sweat, and skin-to-mat contact is inevitable, making the post-practice clean-up an essential step in preventing the spread of bacteria and potential infections.
   
2. Use Disinfectant Wipes: After practice, wiping down the mats with disinfectant wipes can quickly eliminate any contaminants. This targeted approach is particularly useful in areas where there may be concentrated sweat or skin contact.
   
3. Encourage Personal Hygiene: Emphasize the importance of personal hygiene among wrestlers. Encourage them to shower immediately after practice to remove any bacteria or fungi that may have come in contact with their skin.
   
4. Regular Equipment Cleaning: Wrestlers should also be vigilant about cleaning their wrestling gear, including singlets, headgear, and shoes. These items can carry contaminants, so regular cleaning is crucial to prevent the spread of infections.
   
5. Inspect Mats Regularly: Instituting a routine mat inspection helps identify any potential issues such as mat damage or areas that may need special attention during cleaning. Regular inspections contribute to the overall maintenance of a clean and safe wrestling environment.
   
6. Educate Coaches and Athletes: Education plays a pivotal role in maintaining mat hygiene. Coaches should emphasize the importance of cleanliness and educate athletes on the potential risks of neglecting this aspect of wrestling protocol.
   

In essence, the commitment to cleanliness before and after practice is a collective responsibility that extends beyond individual wrestlers. By incorporating these proactive measures, wrestling communities can create an environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of all participants, minimizing the risk of skin infections and promoting a safer and more enjoyable wrestling experience.

Do not wear your wrestling shoes on the street

Wrestling shoes are essential gear designed for the unique demands of the wrestling mat. While these shoes provide optimal grip and support during practice and competition, wearing them on the street poses several challenges and considerations.

Limited Durability

The best wrestling shoes are expensive. Wrestling shoes feature thin soles and specialized materials designed for the mat’s surface. When worn on rough outdoor terrain, these shoes may experience quicker wear and tear, diminishing their overall lifespan. Rocks, uneven surfaces, and pavement can cause damage to the shoe’s sole and compromise its structural integrity.

Traction Concerns

The outsole of wrestling shoes is crafted to provide maximum traction on the mat. However, on the street, where surfaces may be wet or uneven, these shoes may lack the necessary grip. This raises the risk of slipping, which could lead to injuries or accidents.

Preservation of Mat Hygiene

Wrestling mats require a high level of cleanliness to minimize the risk of skin infections among athletes. Wearing wrestling shoes on the street introduces foreign contaminants to the mats, compromising the hygiene of the wrestling environment. Wrestlers are generally encouraged to change into their wrestling shoes upon entering the wrestling facility.

Might Affect Foot Arch

Wearing them for extended periods on the street may lead to your arch problems with a wrestlers feet, as wrestling shoes lack the cushioning and support required for walking or standing on hard surfaces.

In conclusion, while wrestling shoes are indispensable for the sport, it’s advisable for wrestlers to change into them only within the designated training area. This practice not only preserves the longevity and performance of the shoes but also upholds cleanliness standards within the wrestling community, contributing to a safer and more hygienic training environment.

You should carry your shoes into the room and put them on in the wrestling room.  Also, wipe your shoes on a wet towel with disinfectant before practice.

Wash Wrestling Workout Clothes Frequently

I’ve seen many wrestlers who take off the clothes they wear to wrestling practice and throw them in their locker.  The next day they put on the same clothes.  Not only are you wearing clothes that stink to high heaven, you are just asking to catch a disease or transmit a skin to disease to your workout partners.

Maintaining clean workout attire is a fundamental aspect of responsible and hygienic training, especially in the context of wrestling. Here’s why wrestlers should prioritize washing their workout clothes frequently:

Sweat and Bacteria Accumulation

Intense wrestling workouts induce significant sweating, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Failure to wash workout clothes promptly allows bacteria to multiply, leading to unpleasant odors and potentially contributing to skin infections. Regular washing removes sweat and bacteria, ensuring a fresher and more hygienic training experience. You also don’t gag everyone in the room.

Better Workouts

Clean and well-maintained workout clothes contribute to a wrestler’s overall comfort and focus during training. Fresh gear enhances freedom of movement, reduces distractions, and allows wrestlers to concentrate fully on their technique and conditioning, ultimately improving their overall performance.

In conclusion, washing wrestling workout clothes frequently is more than just a matter of personal hygiene; it’s a collective responsibility that contributes to a safer, more comfortable, and more respectful training environment. Wrestlers who prioritize cleanliness not only promote their own well-being but also uphold the standards of the wrestling community as a whole.

Keep Finger Nails Trimmed

Having your fingernails untrimmed is a quick way to spread skin infections.  You can pass skin infections by scratching other people with long nails. Long nails allow you to harbor skin infections under your nails and break the skin of your workout partner or an opponent. An open wound is a quick way to get MRSA, ringworm, etc…

Maintaining trimmed fingernails is a crucial aspect of responsible hygiene and safety for wrestlers. Here are several reasons why wrestlers should prioritize keeping their fingernails trimmed:

Prevention of Scratches and Cuts

Long fingernails pose a significant risk of causing scratches and cuts during wrestling matches. Given the close physical contact and grappling involved in the sport, even a minor scratch can lead to skin irritations, infections, and potential disruptions to training or competition.

Respect for Opponents

Trimming fingernails is a sign of respect for training partners and opponents. It demonstrates a commitment to creating a safe and considerate wrestling environment. Wrestlers who take the time to maintain proper personal grooming standards contribute to a culture of mutual respect within the wrestling community.

Prevention of Accidental Eye Injuries

Unintentional contact with long fingernails can result in eye injuries, which are not only painful but also carry the risk of more severe consequences. Trimming fingernails reduces the likelihood of accidental eye injuries during wrestling matches.

Enhanced Focus on Technique

Wrestlers who keep their fingernails trimmed can fully focus on their techniques and strategies during training and competitions. Uncomfortable sensations or concerns about scratching are minimized, allowing athletes to give their undivided attention to improving their skills and performance.

In conclusion, keeping fingernails trimmed is a fundamental aspect of responsible and safe participation in wrestling. It not only helps prevent injuries and infections but also contributes to a culture of respect, discipline, and keeping everyone focused on getting better at practice.

Sick? Stay off the Mat

The decision for a wrestler to refrain from attending practice or competitions when sick is a crucial aspect of responsible health management within the wrestling community. Here are several key reasons why wrestlers should prioritize their well-being and the well-being of others by staying home when unwell:

Contagion Prevention

One sick kid can lead to the entire squad getting sick. The very nature of wrestling cause illnesses can easily spread. Staying home when sick helps prevent the transmission of contagious viruses or bacteria to training partners and opponents, reducing the risk of widespread infections within the wrestling community.

Faster Recovery

When I’m sick, I go right to bed until I feel better. Rest is a vital component of recovery when battling an illness. Wrestling while sick could prolonging the duration of their illness. Taking the necessary time off to rest allows the body to recover more efficiently, ensuring a quicker return to optimal health.

Wrestling While Sick Diminishes Your A-Game

Wrestling demands intense physical and mental focus. Attending practice or competitions while sick can diminish a wrestler’s ability to concentrate, hindering their performance and potentially leading to mistakes or injuries. Taking the time to recover ensures that wrestlers can return to training with the required focus and dedication.

In conclusion, the decision for a wrestler to refrain from attending practice or competitions when sick is a responsible choice that benefits both the individual wrestler as well as everyone on the team.

Know when to See a Doctor

When to See a Doctor for Illness

Wrestlers should consult a doctor if their illness includes persistent symptoms such as high fever, severe fatigue, breathing difficulties, or symptoms that worsen over time. Seeking medical advice ensures a proper diagnosis and timely treatment, preventing potential complications and aiding a swift recovery.

Signs of a Skin Infection

Watch out for redness, swelling, warmth, or tenderness around skin lesions. Pus, blisters, or a spreading rash are also concerning signs. Persistent itching, discomfort, or changes in skin color warrant attention. Wrestlers should be proactive in identifying these symptoms, as early detection enhances the effectiveness of treatment.

When to Get a Skin Infection Treated by a Doctor

Wrestling coaches and parent should be vigilant and be looking for signs of a skin infection.  If a wrestler is showing any symptoms of a skin disease, have him/her go to a doctor and get cleared by the doctor before returning to the wrestling room.

Early intervention is crucial to prevent the infection from spreading and causing complications. If the infection persists, worsens, or if there’s no improvement with over-the-counter treatments, consulting a doctor becomes imperative for tailored medical care and a thorough assessment of the situation.

Prevention is Key for Healthy Wrestlers

While we all should be concerned about good hygiene is wrestling, you should know that prevention is the key to keeping wrestlers disease free. 

Maintaining good health in wrestling starts with prevention. Wrestlers can significantly reduce the risk of illnesses and skin infections through simple yet effective measures. Regular handwashing, proper hygiene practices, and avoiding close contact with those exhibiting symptoms of illness are foundational steps.

Moreover, a little common sense, like refraining from sharing personal items and promptly cleaning and covering cuts and abrasions, adds an extra layer of protection. By embracing these preventive actions, wrestlers safeguard their well-being and contribute to a healthier training environment.

Additional Hygiene Resources

CDC – Sports Hygiene – The CDC offers valuable information on hygiene practices for athletes, including those involved in wrestling.

NCAA – Health and Safety – The NCAA provides resources on health and safety, including guidelines for preventing skin infections in wrestling.

USA Wrestling – Hygiene and Skin Infection Prevention – USA Wrestling offers insights and recommendations on preventing skin infections and maintaining hygiene.

SportsMD – Wrestling Hygiene Tips – SportsMD provides tips on wrestling hygiene, specifically focusing on preventing skin infections.

Wrestling Hygiene Products:

In the course of my research, I’ve identified top-rated hygiene products that are not only beneficial for wrestlers but also for their families. These essentials are designed to elevate personal hygiene, prevent infections, and contribute to a healthier training environment. Consider incorporating these highly recommended products into your daily routine

Wrestling Mat Cleaners – Here is a list of recommended mat cleaners.  a key component to preventing skin diseases and viruses is cleaning the mats before wrestling practice and competitions.

Antimicrobial Soap – Using a soap with antimicrobial properties helps in thorough cleaning and reduces the risk of skin infections. Defense Soap sells a body wash for wrestlers that is designed to defend against Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Body Odor, Foot Odor and More. They have over 7500 reviews with a rating of 4.7

Antifungal Powder – Products containing antifungal powder can help keep the skin dry, preventing the growth of fungi that may lead to infections. Comfort Zone sells a highly rated powder is talc-free. It has over 6,800 views with a rating of 4.6

Disinfectant Wipes – Convenient for wiping down wrestling mats and equipment, disinfectant wipes help maintain a clean training environment. I’ve even know wrestlers that used disinfectant wipes between matches. Amazon sells their Amazon Basics Disinfecting Wipes that smell like lemon and fresh scent. While it cannot be used as a personal wipe, they claim that it kills viruses. it has a over 68,000 reviews with a rating of 4.7

Moisture-Wicking Clothing – Wrestlers should invest in moisture-wicking clothing to manage sweat effectively and reduce the risk of skin irritation. There are so many awesome clothing items, there is no way to list them all. Here is a list of the best selling moisture-wicking clothing on Amazon.

Clean Towels – Regularly washing and using clean towels is essential for personal hygiene and preventing the spread of infections. In my house, we go through towels like crazy. You can never have enough towels. I found the Cotton Paradise 6 Piece Towel Set with 100% Turkish Cotton Soft. It has over 36,000 reviews with a 4.5 rating.

Stay Updated

I hope you found this comprehensive guide on Wrestling Hygiene insightful and practical. Whether you’re a seasoned wrestler or a supportive family member, the information provided aims to equip you with valuable knowledge on maintaining cleanliness, preventing infections, and fostering a healthy wrestling environment.

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