As reports of sudden gym deaths raise alarm, experts call for safer practices

The pursuit of fitness is driving a silent health crisis across the state. From protein powders and energy drinks to steroid-laced boosters, the unchecked use of health supplements — often without medical supervision — is putting lives at risk. Recent incidents of sudden deaths among gym-goers have jolted both the public and health authorities into action.

Doctors across Ludhiana are sounding the alarm. “We’re seeing a surge in cases of liver damage, kidney failure, and hormonal imbalance — all linked to unsupervised supplement use,” Dr Amit Aggarwal, a senior physician, said.

“Many people believe if it’s sold over the counter or recommended by a gym trainer, it must be safe. That’s a dangerous myth,” he added.

Dr Dipti Gupta, a nutritionist, said that the problem wasn’t just what people consumed — but how and why. “Supplements are meant to fill nutritional gaps, not replace meals or fast-track muscle gain. But social media and peer pressure have created a culture of shortcuts,” he said.

The issue came into sharp focus after reports of young men collapsing during workouts came to fore. In most cases, they had not undergone any fitness screening before starting intense routines. Some had been consuming multiple supplements daily, including pre-workout stimulants and testosterone boosters.

Dr Bishav Mohan, Chief Cardiologist at Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, said, “Sudden cardiac arrests during exercise are often linked to undiagnosed heart conditions. Add stimulants or steroids to the mix, and the risk multiplies.”

Gym instructors, too, are beginning to acknowledge the problem. Amanpreet Singh, a trainer at a local fitness centre, said, “We’re not medical experts, but clients expect quick results. Some trainers recommend products without knowing their long-term effects. There’s a need for regulation and education.”

In response to these growing concerns, the Punjab Government recently released a health advisory aimed at gym-goers and athletes. The initiative, developed in collaboration with Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), and Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), was recently unveiled by Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh.

The advisory marks a significant step toward safer fitness practices. It recommends regular health screenings, certified supplement use, and CPR training for gym staff. The Health Department has also initiated a state-wide Basic Life Support (BLS) programme to equip trainers and athletes with emergency response skills.

Dr Gurpreet Singh Wander, Principal of DMCH, emphasised that the advisory should be displayed prominently in gyms and training centres. “It’s not just a document — it’s a preventive tool. We hope other districts follow suit,” he said.

Dr Ramandeep Kaur, Civil Surgeon, Ludhiana, noted that the advisory also addressed environmental factors like poor gym ventilation and indoor air pollution, which can exacerbate health risks.

With lives at stake, the message is clear: consult a doctor before you consult a supplement jar.

Govt advisory

• Mandatory health screening before starting gym routines
• Use certified supplements only, under medical guidance
• Avoid energy drinks, steroids
• Use science-backed warm-up,

  cool-down practices

• Improved gym ventilation, air quality
• CPR, emergency response training for gym staff and users