Ludhiana: A 21-year-old man has died after allegedly suffering a severe spinal injury during a workout session at a gym in Ludhiana, with the victim’s family accusing the trainer of forcing him to lift excessive weight on a leg press machine.
The incident took place around 22 days ago at Sidhu Gym in the Gopal Nagar Chowk area on Tibba Road. The deceased has been identified as Shivam, who had been undergoing treatment since the accident.
According to the family, Shivam was performing a routine workout when a 21-year-old trainer allegedly instructed him to use the leg press machine and loaded weight beyond his capacity. As Shivam attempted the exercise, he experienced severe pain in his lower back and spine before collapsing.
Family members alleged that the excessive weight caused serious compression of his spinal nerves. He was rushed to hospital immediately and later referred to PGI for specialised treatment. Despite doctors’ efforts, Shivam succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
Following his death, grieving relatives and local residents staged a protest outside the gym, demanding strict action against those responsible.
Shivam’s father had passed away earlier, and he was the family’s primary breadwinner. He is survived by his mother, a brother and a sister. The family said he worked in a company handling checking and packing work to support the household.
Police reached the spot after receiving information about the protest. According to officials, both the gym owner and the trainer have been absconding since the incident. Police have taken the body into custody, initiated legal proceedings and launched a search to trace the accused. The investigation is ongoing.
