In the wake of the death of a 22-year-old at a gym on Thursday, health and fitness experts advise a physical assessment before taking a gym membership.
The young man had reportedly died after about 45 minutes of workout at a gym in Madhapur. The family told the police that a pre-existing heart condition may have been contributory. The cause of death has however not been official declared as the autopsy report is pending. Nevertheless, doctors and fitness experts say that getting a health evaluation before starting to workout will help understand the limits of the body.
“We cannot recommend the same kind of workout to everyone. We have to know if somebody has a heart condition or other illness that can pose a risk. A physical assessment before starting to workout let us tailor a fitness plan for that individual,” said Gavin Holt, who owns three gyms across the city. “Getting a medical test done will also tell us what diet to prescribe,” he added while stating that they do not accept members until they get a blood test, record of blood pressure and a complete medical check-up report.
Good practise
Doctors too vouch for a health check-up. “It is a good practise to get a check-up as it would help one know to the body condition before workout. Additionally, when starting to workout, one must always start slow,” said Paripati Sharat Kumar, a city-based Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Consultant.
In Thursday’s case, the police also learnt that the young man may have spent time at a steam bath after an intense workout session. “Dehydration can cause problems. It is essential to hydrate the body during workouts. One must always listen to the body and watch out for any symptoms of pain or breathlessness,” Dr. Kumar said.
Emergency attention
He also said that gyms should have people trained to take emergency resuscitation measures.
Stating that the incident does not reflect upon the fitness industry, Mr. Holt said at many gyms trainers push their members too quickly. “The intensity is increased suddenly. Often it leads to an individual stopping workout. The gym does it for commercial reasons. The consequences of damage from some conditions cannot be repaired even if the muscle around the affected body can be strengthened,” he said.
