What is Rabdo and its uptick?

Rhabo, or more accurately, rhabdomyolysis (often shortened to Rabdo), is a severe medical condition resulting from the breakdown of muscle tissue, which releases a protein called myoglobin into the bloodstream. High levels of myoglobin can be harmful to the kidneys and lead to acute kidney damage. This condition is often associated with extreme physical exertion and inadequate recovery, which can lead to acute overtraining 1.

An uptick in rhabdomyolysis cases has been observed among young and healthy individuals. One explanation for this rise is the increasing popularity of high-intensity workout programs, such as CrossFit. These intense exercise regimens can sometimes push participants beyond their limits, leading to higher incidences of Rabdo 1.

Experts also point out that overtraining syndromes, including Rabdo, are serious and require substantial recovery time. Symptoms can include severe muscle pain, weakness, swelling, and potentially dark-colored urine due to myoglobin presence 2. Overall, the recent increases in Rabdo cases highlight the importance of balancing training intensity with proper recovery practices.