Kuala lumpur: In October, social media users were shocked by the sudden death of influencer Farah Fakhira Fakhrulruzi's husband, who reportedly collapsed while playing badminton at night. The death of Zaidul Ariff Abdul Malek, who was in his 30s, on Oct 31 came just five days after a similar incident involving a 35-year-old man who also collapsed and died while playing badminton at night.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, both men were reported to have died from heart attacks. Such cases are not unusual as deaths during nighttime sports have been reported before, prompting some netizens to float the 'theory' that strenuous activity at night is dangerous because the body is supposedly preparing to rest. However, experts argue that participating in sports at night is not the direct cause of fatal heart attacks.
Dr Mohd Naufal Yunos, a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Sports and Exercise Science at Universiti Malaya, explained that the risk depends on a person's underlying health, such as undiagnosed heart conditions, high blood pressure, or obesity. He stated that playing sports at night primarily increases the risk of muscle injuries or fatigue, not heart attacks. A heart attack is more closely linked to a person's health status, particularly if someone has an undetected heart condition, is unfit, seldom exercises, or suddenly engages in a high-intensity activity.
Dr Mohd Naufal also noted that while nighttime sports might pose different challenges due to the body's natural preparation for rest, these physiological factors are minor and do not generally increase heart attack risk. He emphasized the benefits of sports and exercise, highlighting that they enhance cardiovascular efficiency, strengthen muscles and bones, improve glucose metabolism, and support mental health.
When discussing the best time to exercise, Dr Mohd Naufal suggested that morning to early afternoon is ideal due to the body's peak physiological performance. However, he acknowledged that individual factors such as daily routines and lifestyle choices play a significant role in determining the best time for exercise. He advised consistency in exercise routines, regardless of the time of day.
Consultant physician and cardiologist Dr Mohamad Anuar Mohamad from Putra Medical Centre in Alor Setar, Kedah, remarked that there is no restriction on participating in sports at night, but people should ideally undergo heart health screening beforehand. He highlighted the importance of physical conditioning and the potential risks associated with intense activity disrupting sleep patterns and the heart's autonomic system.
Dr Mohamad Anuar advised that people in high-risk groups, including those with certain heart conditions, should exercise caution when considering nighttime sports. He emphasized the significance of recognizing early signs of cardiac strain during exercise and recommended moderate-intensity activities for nighttime workouts.
Both experts underscored the importance of regular heart health screenings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and being mindful of the body's responses to exercise. They concluded that while nighttime sports can be safe for healthy individuals, those with underlying health issues should take necessary precautions and consult healthcare professionals before engaging in strenuous activities at night.