Seventeen-year-old powerlifting champion Yashtika Acharya tragically lost her life during a training session in Rajasthan. While attempting to squat 270 kg, she lost balance, and the barbell fell on her neck, causing fatal injuries. Despite immediate assistance, she was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital. Yashtika was a gold medalist in the National Bench Press Championship 2024 and had a promising future in powerlifting. Her untimely death has raised serious concerns about gym safety and proper weightlifting techniques.
This incident highlights the importance of safety measures in weightlifting. Experts emphasize the need for trained spotters, proper form, controlled progression in weights, and the use of safety equipment like power racks and safety bars. Overloading without proper technique can be extremely dangerous, even for experienced lifters. Yashtika’s story serves as a heartbreaking reminder that lifting heavy is impressive, but lifting safely is essential. Let’s honor her memory by promoting gym safety and spreading awareness to prevent such tragedies in the future.
