Actor Govinda, 61, was recently discharged from a hospital in suburban Juhu after briefly losing consciousness at home. The actor’s sudden health scare left fans concerned, but doctors have confirmed that he is now stable and undergoing further medical tests. Speaking to ANI, Govinda shared that the episode followed a bout of “excessive hard work” and overexertion during his fitness routine. “Thank you so much… I am fine. I did excessive hard work and was tired. Yoga and Pranayam is good but zyada hard work ho gaya (I worked out too hard). Excessive exercise is tough. I am trying to improve my personality further,” he said, adding that he has now been prescribed medication and is focusing on recovery.According to reports, the actor had been feeling weak and disoriented since Tuesday afternoon. His manager, Sashi Shinde, told SCREEN, “He felt a little dizzy and then his head got heavy, so we got him admitted to get checked by a neurologist. They are checking him. Sir is feeling better. He is resting. There’s nothing to worry about.” Story continues below this adWhile the incident wasn’t too serious, it raises important questions about exercise-induced fatigue, neurological disorientation, and the potential health risks of overexertion, especially as people age.But how can individuals, especially those over 50, recognise the difference between healthy exertion and overtraining?Dr Jagadish Hiremath, a public health intellectual, tells indianexpress.com, “As we age, our body’s capacity to recover from exertion naturally declines. Healthy exertion should leave you energised within a short recovery window, not fatigued or light-headed for hours. Warning signs of overtraining include persistent muscle soreness, sleep disturbances, dizziness, or an unusually elevated heart rate even at rest.” He adds that if you feel breathless, disoriented, or experience a sudden drop in energy mid-workout, it’s a clear signal to pause. Fitness for individuals over 50 should focus on consistency and moderation rather than intensity; pushing beyond what feels sustainable can do more harm than good.Common reasons people may lose consciousness or feel disoriented after intense physical activity According to Dr Hiremath, a sudden loss of consciousness or disorientation post-exercise can stem from multiple causes. Neurologically, inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain or sudden drops in blood pressure during cooldowns can trigger fainting. Story continues below this adALSO READ | Govinda calls wife Sunita Ahuja ‘a child’ and says he’s forgiven her many times“Metabolic factors such as low blood sugar, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances are also common, especially when people exercise in hot environments or on an empty stomach. In rare cases, cardiac rhythm disturbances or underlying neurological issues can contribute. It’s important to treat any episode of fainting seriously and get medically evaluated to rule out deeper concerns,” states the expert. Precautions that should be taken to prevent exhaustion-related complications The foundation of safe fitness lies in balance. For most adults, Dr Hiremath says, especially those in their 50s and beyond, exercise intensity should increase gradually and always be supported by proper nutrition and hydration. Including a mix of stretching, strength training, and low-impact cardio helps build endurance without overtaxing the body. “Pre-workout hydration, post-workout meals rich in complex carbohydrates and proteins, and adequate sleep play key roles in recovery. Listening to one’s body, slowing down when fatigue or dizziness appears, is as important as the workout itself. A well-planned rest schedule is not a sign of weakness; it’s what allows the body to adapt and grow stronger safely,” concludes the expert. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.