Chandigarh: In response to the rising number of workout-related cardiac incidents across the state, the Punjab Health Department has issued a comprehensive State-Level Fitness & Gym Safety Advisory, aimed at ensuring safer exercise practices and improving public awareness around fitness.
Under the new guidelines, all gyms, sports academies, and fitness centres in Punjab are required to implement pre-exercise screening protocols and adhere to medically approved workout standards.
Key Highlights of the Advisory
Mandatory Medical Check-ups:
Members — particularly those above 30 or with known health conditions — must undergo ECG, blood pressure, blood sugar, and BMI screenings before enrolling in any fitness programme.
Monitored Training Sessions:
All high-intensity workouts must be conducted under certified trainers, with compulsory warm-up and cool-down routines to prevent muscle and heart-related injuries.
Regulated Supplement Use:
Gyms have been warned against promoting or allowing unverified steroids or supplements. Nutrition counselling must be made available to members.
Hygiene & Recovery Guidelines:
The advisory emphasises regular sanitisation of equipment and insists on rest/recovery days, especially for new members.
Special Protocols for Women:
Fitness centres have been directed to provide customised plans for pregnant and lactating women, ensuring lighter routines and doctor clearance before participation.
Awareness Campaign:
The Health Department will launch a state-wide awareness drive involving schools, colleges, and sports institutions to promote safe and sustainable fitness habits.
Health officials say the move is intended to “create a safe and regulated fitness ecosystem across the state”. The advisory comes amid growing concern over young individuals suffering heart attacks during unsupervised gym sessions.
“Fitness is important, but safety is equally critical. We want every citizen to exercise with confidence and caution,” a senior official said.
Authorities have asked all district administrations to ensure strict compliance. Inspections of gyms and fitness centres are expected to start next week.
