New Delhi: A 22-year-old Hyderabad techie died after he collapsed suddenly while working out in the gym, which has given birth to a very important question – how much exercise is too much?


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Reports say that he died out of exhaustion due to excessive workout. This may raise many eyebrows, but too much exercise is actually a thing.


Many experts have warned those who are obsessed with fitness and workout for more hours than required. Excess of anything will do you more harm than good and exercise is included in the list.


There is a thin line between dedication and obsession. Unfortunately, the youth of today is being dragged into the societal pressures of 'looking good', which is leading them down that path.


The human body is not capable to adapt to an overworked lifestyle, therefore, it is important to realise when to stop.


As much as it needs the workout, the body needs rest and time to recuperate from the stress it goes through while you exercise, in order for muscles to grow.


As per experts, the ideal workout duration on a weekly basis should be 5-6 hours. A workout regimen should not just focus on one form of training, but incorporate a variety of exercises – a combination of cardio, weight training, stretching, etc.


If you take supplements, make sure you do it after consulting a physician.


Excessive exercising can cause a series of health problems, not just physically, but mentally as well.


Physical effects:


You might experience unexplained weight loss and decreased appetite. You also might find yourself excessively thirsty, particularly at night, indicating possible dehydration. Lack of perspiration is another method that your body might use in an attempt to regulate fluids.


Mental effects:


You might experience sleep disturbances, or feel drowsy during the day and unable to rest at night. Similarly, you might feel excessive fatigue, apathy, irritability or hostility. Other emotions associated with over-training include depression, anger and inability to concentrate.


Take the time to known your bodily needs and limit yourself according to that. If you still have trouble gauging the amount of exercise you require, there are a few symptoms that can tell you whether you're overdoing it or not. They are:


  • Lethargy
  • Poor sleep (despite being tired)
  • Aching muscles
  • Poor workout performance
  • Inability to complete workouts
  • Irritability
  • Loss of appetite
  • Loss of libido
  • Poor co-ordination
  • Swelling of lymph glands
  • Abnormal heart rate

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, the most important thing to do is stop training for a while. Even a single symptom, in no uncertain terms, means that your body is telling you to rest and it could take days, weeks, or months to subside.


Once you begin your routine again, ensure that you start slow with basic workout practices, like jogging or cycling before going all out with the heavy stuff again.