In recent times, a concerning trend has emerged: more young individuals under 50 are experiencing heart attacks, particularly after working out at the gym. The tragic deaths of celebrities like Siddhaanth Surryavanshi and Raju Shrivastav have brought this issue into the spotlight, raising critical questions about what’s going wrong—and how to prevent such outcomes.
While regular exercise is well-known to support heart health, experts caution that overexertion and unmonitored gym routines can put individuals—especially those with pre-existing conditions—at serious risk. Here’s what the experts are saying and what precautions you should take.
? The Heart-Gym Connection: What’s Really Happening?
Dr. Bipeenchandra Bhamre, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, warns that ignoring early warning signs during exercise can be life-threatening. Symptoms like chest heaviness, pain in the left shoulder, throat, or back, dizziness, or nausea should never be brushed off.
He explains that people with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, a smoking history, or a family history of heart disease need to be especially cautious. “Going too fast, lifting too heavy, or exercising for long durations without understanding your body’s limits can lead to sudden cardiac arrest,” he emphasizes.
Often, individuals with sedentary lifestyles jump into rigorous gym routines in an attempt to quickly get fit, without understanding their actual health status. Sudden strain on an unconditioned heart can lead to plaque rupture or trigger electrical disturbances, both of which are common causes of cardiac events during exercise.
? The Science Behind It
Dr. Adil Sadiq, Head of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery at Sakra World Hospital, points out that unaccustomed intense activity creates an imbalance in oxygen demand and supply in the heart, sometimes triggering a heart attack. Plaque rupture or irregular heart rhythms are other possible outcomes.
He stresses that the lack of a structured, progressive, and monitored exercise regime—not the gym itself—is the real issue. He advises anyone with risk factors to undergo a thorough cardiovascular evaluation before starting strenuous workouts.
? Risk Factors You Shouldn’t Ignore
According to Dr. Vikram Kolhari, Consultant Cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals:
- Moderate exercise significantly reduces heart risks.
- Vigorous, unmonitored workouts, however, may trigger sudden cardiac arrests, particularly in people with hidden heart conditions or sedentary habits.
- About 16% of indoor sudden cardiac arrests happen at exercise facilities in the U.S., a stat that raises global concern.
High-intensity workouts raise adrenaline levels, blood pressure, and heart rate, which can lead to plaque rupture and heart attacks, especially in those with undiagnosed coronary artery disease.
? Tips to Stay Safe While Staying Fit
Here’s a summary of key recommendations from the experts:
1. Know Your Body and Its Limits
- Don’t push beyond your heart’s capacity. Gymming should enhance your health, not endanger it.
- Be aware of symptoms like breathlessness, chest discomfort, dizziness, or fatigue.
2. Get a Cardiac Check-Up
- If you have risk factors (e.g., smoking, diabetes, family history), undergo tests like ECG, ECHO, TMT, CT scans, or coronary angiograms before starting high-intensity workouts.
3. Stay Hydrated
- Dehydration leads to loss of crucial electrolytes like potassium and sodium, which are vital for heart rhythm.
- Use ORS or plain water—no need for expensive electrolyte drinks unless advised.
4. Exercise Progressively
- Start with moderate activities such as brisk walking, swimming, yoga, or cycling for 150 minutes per week (at least 5 days).
- Gradually increase intensity rather than jumping into long, exhausting sessions.
5. Pick the Right Gym
- Choose gyms that have AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) and trained CPR personnel.
- Safety equipment and professional supervision can be lifesaving.
6. Annual Health Screening
- Dr. CH Praveen from Omni Hospital recommends starting routine health check-ups from age 30, considering today’s lifestyle shifts.
- Early detection can prevent many silent cardiac issues.
Final Thoughts: Prevention Is Better Than Cure
The gym should be a place to build strength and improve wellness—but blindly following fitness trends without personal assessment is dangerous. With proper awareness, medical guidance, and listening to your body, you can stay safe while getting fit.
Remember: it’s not about how hard you push, but how smartly you train.
