Rhabdo or rhabdomyolysis is a serious problem that is good to be knowledgeable of. This is when muscle fibers release their contents into the blood stream.
Why is this important to me?
It is good to be aware of Rhabdo because it can happen with long and/ or intense workouts. It is important to know the symptoms and also how to prevent it because it can lead to kidney issues.
What increases your risk?
People who have gotten rhabdo before are more likely to get it again. Make sure to always drink plenty of water and stay well hydrated. Extreme heat and drug and alcohol intoxication increases your risk of rhabdo.
What should I do?
Always scale workouts accordingly. If you start failing at reps and your body is giving up at things that it typically doesn't with, cut the workout short and drink more water. Be more mindful when the workouts consist of mostly body-weight movements and during the summer months.
What are the symptoms?
Darkened urine, confusion, nausea and/or vomiting are all symptoms. While less common, muscle weakness and pain and trouble moving limbs are symptoms.
Am I going to get Rhabdo?
Don't freak out! We scale for a reason... to keep you safe. Rhabdo is rare but it's important to know about it. As long as you drink plenty of water and continue to scale properly, you'll be okay.
Follow the urine chart below to see if you're properly hydrated.
What should I do if I think I have Rhabdo?
Go to the emergency room IMMEDIATELY!!! If untreated, rhabdo can lead to kidney failure. You will need to be given an IV immediately to replenish your body to prevent kidney failure.
