Don't Run a Marathon Just for Content: The Dangers of Running Without Preparation
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com — Participating in marathon events or high-intensity sports has become part of the lifestyle of urban society, especially among young people. Many people compete in various physical events to maintain fitness as well as to secure their presence online. Unfortunately, enthusiasm for this sports trend is often not matched by an understanding of the limits of the body’s organs.
“There’s a lot of people who get drawn (to running without preparation) because they want to create content for runner culture. No, you are not running for the gram or for your social media,” said celebrity Iwet Ramadhan at the launch event of the Omron SF Series tensometer in South Jakarta, on Wednesday (20 May 2026).
As a result of pushing themselves, not a few youths suddenly collapse or suffer a heart attack mid-race because they have high blood pressure that had not previously been detected.
Because the body is forced to work beyond normal daily limits. Hasty and reckless preparation risks damaging the cardiovascular system and causing sudden fatal injuries.
“Because running is dangerous, especially marathon running, because there is no normal human designed to run 42 kilometres. Preparation for a marathon must be prepared for the body with physical training,” asserted Iwet, who is also a runner.
However, hardcore physical training apparently is not enough if not accompanied by medical checks, including blood pressure checks.
High blood pressure (hypertension) or heart rhythm disorders such as Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) are not only affecting older people but also young people who appear fit.
Forcing oneself to exercise intensely without knowing one’s heart medical records can invite death, because the heart is forced to pump blood many times faster while running.
A thorough examination shows traces of brain damage due to undetected rhythm disorders.
“It turned out he had experienced a minor stroke, so he lost consciousness. I did an MRI, the MRI showed many small strokes in his head, in his brain. Why? Because atrial fibrillation,” said Dr Eka.
In his view, this case serves as a warning that a runner’s physical fitness can mask hidden heart abnormalities.