CMC Vellore doctor reveals the medical tests gym goers must take periodically to avoid heart attack risks

A tragic incident on Sunday in Thane has started an important health conversation among fitness enthusiasts. Benny Devassy, a 56-year-old resident of Manpada and an avid runner, died just hours after completing a half-marathon organised by the Thane Municipal Corporation. While he showed no immediate signs of distress after finishing the 21-km race, he later complained of uneasiness, vomited after eating, and was declared dead at a hospital. His sudden passing has raised urgent questions about hidden cardiac risks, even among visibly fit individuals.

In the wake of this incident, Hyderabad-based neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar, known for his preventive health advocacy, has shared a comprehensive pre-exercise health checklist for individuals planning to take up strenuous physical activity. With over 26 years of clinical experience, Dr. Kumar underscores that many heart-related conditions can remain “silent” until triggered by physical exertion, especially in people over 35.

“Fitness does not always equal heart health,” Dr. Kumar warns, urging individuals to undergo periodic health screenings, even if they appear outwardly healthy. His checklist is divided into two categories: basic tests for all individuals, and advanced tests for those with pre-existing risk factors or abnormal findings.

Important health check-ups before hitting the gym
Basic Health Check-Up (Recommended for All Gym-Goers & Runners):
Clinical examination (Heart rate, blood pressure, weight, BMI, waist circumference)

• Hemoglobin
• Fasting blood sugar
• Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c)
• Fasting serum insulin
• Lipid profile
• Homocysteine
• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin D
• Liver function tests
• Creatinine
• TSH (Thyroid function)
• hs-CRP (High-sensitivity C-reactive protein)
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Echocardiogram

“These tests are crucial to detect hidden metabolic or cardiovascular risks that could become fatal under physical stress,” Dr. Kumar explains.

✅Recommended Health Check prior to starting to exercise (including running and gym workouts)

Basic Health Checkup
(These should ideally be done before taking up vigorous physical activity such as long distance running or strenuous gym workouts)
1. Clinical examination: Heart…

— Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (@hyderabaddoctor) August 11, 2025

Advanced Screening (For High-Risk Individuals):
If you're over 40, have a family history of heart disease, or present abnormalities in basic tests, Dr. Kumar advises the following additional evaluations:

• Lipoprotein(a)
• Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo-A1)
• Apolipoprotein B (Apo-B)
• Treadmill Stress Test (TMT)
• CT Coronary Angiogram + Calcium Score

He adds that these tests should be interpreted under the guidance of a qualified physician, and not used for self-diagnosis.

About Dr. Sudhir Kumar

Dr. Sudhir Kumar is a senior neurologist practicing at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad. He began his career at the renowned Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, and has treated thousands of patients with neurological and lifestyle-related disorders. From strokes and migraines to epilepsy and Parkinson’s, his expertise spans a wide range of conditions. He is also active on social media, where he shares health tips and advocates for preventive medicine, especially in the context of modern lifestyle diseases.