A young employee in China has developed a serious muscle-related condition after allegedly being forced to perform 200 squats as punishment for failing to meet workplace targets.
The employee, identified by her surname Yang, had moved to Hangzhou in Zhejiang province for her first job. She joined a loan assistance company in June as a financial consultant, with her role largely involving tele-sales.
Her team reportedly operated with strict daily performance targets. Employees were expected to make 200 calls, bring in at least one prospective client and secure one customer showing an intention to work with the company.
On 28 July, Yang failed to meet two of these targets. Her manager, identified as Zhang, allegedly gave her two options. She could perform 100 squats for each missed target or pay a penalty of 50 yuan for each one. Unable to afford the financial penalty, Yang chose the physical punishment. She completed 200 squats in multiple batches around the office building and sent videos to her supervisor as evidence.
The exercise soon left her struggling to stand and walk. She also developed severe pain in both legs. However, she delayed seeking medical help because of concerns over treatment costs.
Five days later, she went to hospital after noticing that her urine had become dark. Doctors diagnosed her with rhabdomyolysis, a condition caused by severe muscle damage that can release muscle contents into the bloodstream and potentially affect the kidneys.
Her creatine kinase level reportedly exceeded 16,000 U/L. She avoided kidney failure but was advised to rest and avoid strenuous activity. Her treatment cost about 1,400 yuan.
Yang resigned on 30 July and later sought reimbursement for medical and travel expenses, along with compensation for her injury and recovery period. Her manager rejected the demand and told her to seek legal action if she believed she had a case.
The matter has since reached the local labour authorities after Yang filed a complaint. Officials are investigating the allegations. Chinese labour regulations prohibit employers from insulting or physically punishing employees.
The incident has also renewed scrutiny of workplace bullying, excessive sales targets and punitive management practices.
