Rhabdomyolysis: What Might Have Happened to Jesse Marunde
Jesse Marunde’s passing was a shock. And it always is when a young vibrant Elite level Athlete suddenly dies while doing what we all know is good for us: Exercising.
So, what happened to him? We don’t know yet. But, here’s an article from the CrossFit Journal about a condition called “Rhabdomyolysis.” It is …
a breakdown of muscle cell contents that results in the release of muscle fiber contents into the bloodstream.
This is bad. And the elevated levels of potassium in the system of the victim can stop ones heart (and worse). Clearly taking anyone beyond their own capacities is a recipe for trouble.
For those of us who are not professional athletes, it’s easy to listen to our minds telling us to slow down or stop. Our pain threshold is acting like a safety valve.
But, for an elite athlete, listening to the pain telling you to stop is akin to conceding victory. So, though it is remarkably rare, this may be the reason we tend to see it in athletes.
Always work hard, but only within the bounds of your current capacity. Hard is a relative word.
The author used the word “mindful” and I will repeat it. Be Mindful of yourself. That is the first step towards success an any endeavor. Fitness is no exception.
Filed under: Exercise • Health • Science • The Mind • Weightlifting • people
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I agree with the premise of “mindful” 100%. I have taught high intensity fitness, am a personal trainer, and specialize in stress management and relaxation techniques.
Where ever a person’s skill level is, it is always important to be mindful – though we look pretty much alike in many ways, our physiology, experience and prowess may be much different.
We must always be mindful of our body and what we do to it. After all, we only have one place to live, and that is our body! THANKS for the reminder.
Absolutely. We do a lot of Crossfit Style moves and workouts, and it is always imperitive to keep a close eye out.
Generally, the average person doesn’t push themselves ENOUGH. But, periodically, there is an athlete that doesn’t know when to stop.
that’s my job, and the job of any good coach/trainer: to know when to push, and know when to tell them to take a day off.