What To Do If Someone Has a Seizure While Lifting Heavy Weights

🚨 Stay Calm, Stay Focused

The most important thing? Stay calm. Panicking won’t help the person or anyone around. Take a deep breath and act with care and confidence.

💪 Step 1: Make Sure They’re Safe

If the person is mid-lift (like squatting or bench pressing), safety is the top priority:

If they’re using free weights: Try to guide the weights away from their body if it’s safe to do so. Do not try to restrain them or hold them still.
If they’re using machines: Most gym machines have safety stops—activate the safety mechanisms if possible.
Clear the area of anything that could hurt them—like weights, equipment, or sharp objects.

📞 Step 2: Call for Help

Dial emergency services (like 999 or 911) immediately.
Let the gym staff know what’s happening—they may have a medical protocol in place and can help clear space or get medical supplies.

⏱ Step 3: Time the Seizure

Most seizures only last 1–2 minutes. Timing it can help emergency responders later.

If it goes over 5 minutes, that’s a medical emergency.
If they stop breathing, you may need to start CPR (if trained to do so).

🛏 Step 4: Help Them Down Safely

If they haven’t already fallen, gently help them to the floor and turn them on their side. This helps keep their airway clear and reduces the risk of choking.

Do not hold them down.
Do not put anything in their mouth.
Cushion their head with a jacket, towel, or your hands.

🧘 Step 5: Stay With Them Until Fully Awake

After the seizure, they may be confused, tired, or even embarrassed.

Let them know what happened.
Stay calm and reassuring.
Offer water, and help them sit up when they’re ready.

❤️ Things to Avoid

Don’t crowd them.
Don’t yell or flash lights in their face.
Don’t assume they’re okay to go back to lifting—they’ll need to rest.

👀 Final Tip: Learn About Epilepsy

Not all seizures are caused by epilepsy, but understanding it can help you recognize warning signs and respond better. If your gym buddy has a known condition, ask them what they’d want you to do in case of an emergency.

Being prepared saves lives. In a high-intensity environment like the gym, knowing how to respond to a seizure can make you a true hero. Spread awareness, and keep lifting—but with safety and compassion in mind.