A 23-year-old university student from Henan province, China, developed acute kidney failure after an intense leg workout, requiring emergency dialysis, according to a report from Chinese media. The incident, which occurred in late May 2026, was treated at a hospital in Zhengzhou.
The patient, identified only by his surname Zhang, experienced severe muscle pain and dark urine two days after performing over 100 deep squats and other leg exercises. Doctors diagnosed him with rhabdomyolysis, a condition where muscle tissue breaks down and releases toxins into the bloodstream, overwhelming the kidneys.
Dr. Li Wei, a nephrologist at the hospital, stated that the patient had no prior health issues but had not exercised regularly before this intense session. He warned that sudden, excessive exercise can lead to rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury, especially in untrained individuals.
After several sessions of hemodialysis, Zhang's kidney function gradually improved, and he was discharged after 10 days. The hospital advised fitness enthusiasts to increase exercise intensity gradually and stay hydrated.
