Does excessive exercise weaken the heart? The death of a Chinese bodybuilder raises questions
Wang Kun, a 30-year-old Chinese bodybuilding champion, has passed away. Initial investigations have revealed that the cause of death was a heart-related problem. Although the final medical report has not yet been released, the fact that such a fit man had heart disease is a cause for concern.
China's renowned bodybuilding champion, Wang Kun, has passed away at the age of 30. The cause of death is believed to be a heart problem.
However, he abstained from alcohol, cigarettes, and unhealthy habits, so how did he develop heart problems? Was excessive exercise the cause, or was there some other reason? First, let's understand who Wang Kun was.
Wang was one of the most accomplished bodybuilders, winning eight consecutive national bodybuilding championship titles. He prioritized physical training and lived a disciplined life.
What was the cause of death?
Dr. Ajit Jain, of the Cardiology Department at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital in Delhi, explains that the cause of death will only be known after a medical examination.
However, in the past few years, cases of heart attacks have increased among bodybuilders. This could be due to more than one reason.
For example, since the COVID-19 pandemic, people are developing heart clots. Even if a person is fit, eats well, and exercises, they still develop this problem. Blood clots can cause poor blood flow to the heart, putting pressure on the heart, which can lead to a heart attack.
Another reason is that some people, in pursuit of bodybuilding, take excessive doses of steroids and continue to do so for years. Steroids also affect the heart.
In some cases, they can cause cardiac arrest. Although they do not directly cause it, they do affect heart function. Overdoses can lead to heart failure. In recent years, there have been cases where overdoses have led to heart failure or heart attacks.
Does excessive workout weaken the heart?
Dr. Jain says that while not excessive exercise, sudden heavy workouts can have an impact on the heart. Lifting heavy weights can put excessive strain on the heart.
This thickens the heart muscle and increases the risk of abnormal heartbeats. If someone engages in heavy workouts for a long period of time, they may be at risk, although the risk is low. The main causes are blood clots and steroid overdose.
What things should be kept in mind?
- Never do heavy workouts suddenly
- Take steroids only on the advice of a doctor
- Take care of your diet
- Do not take mental stress
Heart Attack