Gym trainers, medical experts call for stricter regulations for fitness centres

Bengaluru

Recent incidents of violent altercations among gym-goers in Karnataka have raised concerns over steroid abuse and the need for stricter regulation of fitness centres. One of the most alarm ing incidents was reported from a gym in Hassan, where a minor argument between two gym-goers allegedly escalated into a violent assault, leaving one individual with a severe skull fracture and in a coma.

Use of AAS
“A major contributing factor to the rising use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is the lack of structured education among gym users regarding the risks associated with these substances. Many individuals rely on peer advice, trainers, or unverified online sources, leading to unsafe dosing practices, polypharmacy or ‘stacking’, and prolonged usage cycles,” said Dr Tilak N, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru.

He explained that unlike medically supervised corticosteroid therapy, the non-prescribed use of AAS for muscle enhancement is often undertaken without adequate awareness of its serious short- and long term consequences. Dr Tilak warned that steroid misuse significantly in creases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including premature heart attacks, liver toxicity, endocrine disorders such as hypogonadism and infertility, psychiatric issues including aggression and mood disorders, and irreversible physical changes.

Misconceptions
“Another major concern is the misconception that these drugs are safe if used intermittently or alongside so-called ‘post-cycle ther apies’, which themselves are poorly regulated and inadequately understood,” he added. According to him, addressing the issue requires a multi-pronged approach involving awareness campaigns for young adults and gym users, education for fitness professionals, stricter regulation of steroid availability, and encouraging individuals to seek medical guidance without stigma.

Inside gyms
Usman, a senior trainer at Skyhigh Fitness in JP Nagar, said gyms should be regularly monitored and restricted from openly promoting supplements or steroids. “Certain gyms encourage steroid use to accelerate bodybuilding results, and this often influences young individuals who are new to fitness training,” he said, adding that the availability of steroids must be stopped.

He further observed that prolonged steroid use could contribute to behavioural changes, including aggression, apart from severe health complications that may eventually result in premature death. Highlighting another important aspect, Usman stressed the need for gyms to foster a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.

“Gym managements should take responsibility for creating a welcoming environment where members feel com fortable with one another.

Safety first
He added that gyms must also prioritise the safety and comfort of women members. “These incidents are highly unusual and out of the ordinary, as physical fights rarely occur inside gyms or among fitness enthusiasts,” said Lavanya Kumar, a trainer from RT Nagar