Ego Lifting at Gym Leads 20-Year-Old to Suffer Multiple Slipped Discs

A 20-year-old engineering student from Noida was diagnosed with multiple slipped discs after repeatedly engaging in ego lifting — attempting to lift weights far beyond his safe capacity to impress others. The young man, who had been consuming protein and creatine supplements on the advice of a gym instructor, trained without medical clearance, proper supervision, or gradual progression in his workout plan. Experts report that the combination of excessive loading, poor lifting form, and inadequate core strength placed extreme pressure on his lumbar spine, resulting in herniated discs between L2 and S1. The case was documented by medical specialists at AIIMS Delhi, where Dr. Bhavuk Garg, Professor of Orthopaedics, warned of the dangers of rapid, unsupervised strength training combined with unregulated supplement use. Dr. Garg explained that improper technique and ego-driven overloading can cause severe spinal damage, particularly in young lifters eager for quick results. According to sports medicine professionals, ego lifting has become a rising concern in gyms nationwide, fuelled by peer pressure, viral workout challenges, and the social media culture of showcasing personal records. Recent health reports suggest a growing trend of gym-related spinal injuries among teenagers and young adults. Orthopaedic experts note that these injuries often occur in recreational lifters who skip proper warm-ups, progress too quickly, and ignore early warning signs such as persistent lower back pain, tingling, or numbness. In this case, the student delayed seeking treatment for several weeks, which worsened his condition. He has now been placed on a rehabilitation program involving physiotherapy, core stability exercises, and a complete ban on heavy lifting until full recovery. Doctors have also advised discontinuing unregulated supplements in favour of natural protein sources to support healing. Medical professionals are calling for stricter safety measures in gyms, including mandatory induction sessions, closer supervision during heavy lifts, and tighter control over supplement recommendations. The case serves as a warning that in fitness, progress must be built gradually and safely — because chasing quick gains through ego lifting can result in permanent, life-altering injuries. Even legendary eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman serves as a reminder of these dangers. Known for lifting extreme weights throughout his career, Coleman underwent multiple spinal and hip surgeries after years of intense strain on his body. His story is often cited in the fitness world as proof that even the strongest athletes are not immune to the long-term consequences of overloading the body beyond its limits.