Is Microscopic Fracturing Through Intense Exercise Lawful?
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
Would it be haram to intentionally cause microscopic fractures through intense workouts to potentially increase height, even if it doesn’t cause harm? Can such practices be allowed in Islam?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate. May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.
The described practice would be allowed if medical experts affirm that it does not harm. But if it significantly risks one’s health, it would be unlawful in Islam. Muslims should prioritize health, seek expert advice, and refrain from harmful actions.
Avoiding Harm
If recognized and qualified medical experts, based on sound evidence, determine that there is no harm in such practices—whether short-term or long-term—then it would be considered permissible (halal).
However, the practice would be impermissible if there is any risk of serious harm, either immediately or in the future (haram).
Allah (Most High) commands us in the Quran, “(Do not) cast yourselves into destruction with your own hands” [Quran, 2:195]. This verse reminds us to avoid engaging in practices that could harm our bodies or compromise our well-being.
Additionally, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Your body has a right over you” [Bukhari], emphasizing the responsibility we bear to care for the bodies Allah (Most High) has entrusted to us.
Please visit this related answer.
Balancing Pursuits
Islam teaches us to cherish and respect our bodies without succumbing to vanity. It reminds us that our actual value lies within our hearts and deeds, not merely in our external appearance. Enhancing our physical features is permissible as long as it does not harm us, yet we must guard against pride and an obsession with outward looks.
The Prophet (Allah bless him and grant him peace) emphasized that Allah cherishes our hearts and actions above our physical form. Thus, we are encouraged to set our sights on higher, more enduring objectives—pursuing knowledge, serving others, and deepening our spiritual connection. These pursuits pave the path to genuine achievement in both this world and the Hereafter, guiding us toward a life of true fulfillment and success.
I pray this is of benefit and that Allah guides us all.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Muhammad Abu Bakr Badhib
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Mawlana Yusuf Karaan, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has served as the Director of the Discover Islam Centre and Al Jeem Foundation. For the last five years till present, he has served as the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has thirteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic online learning and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy living and fitness.
