Lifting heavy weights comes with its risks, as even the slightest incidents can cause significant injuries or even fatal consequences. Unfortunately, this was the case with Yashtika Acharya, a 17-year-old powerlifter from India. While training, Yashtika decided to load and attempt a 270-kilogram (595.3-pound) squat. However, the attempt turned into a tragic incident which resulted in her death.
Yashtika Acharya was a national level powerlifter in India, capable of lifting heavy weights and placing high in top-level competitions. So, while pursuing further improvements, the young athlete loaded 270 kilograms (595.3 pounds) on the barbell. Unfortunately, while coming out of the rack, Yashtika ended up losing her balance and dropped backwards with the weight on her back.
Yashtika Acharya wore a lifting belt and a pair of tightly wrapped knee wraps which might have limited her mobility. She also seemed to have been standing on an elevated platform during her unrack, thus having to step down while walking the barbell out of the rack. There are a lot of other factors which could have also caused the unfortunate incident.
After losing her balance, Yashtika Acharya started falling backwards, but her spotter was unable to catch her. Once she made contact with the ground, the barbel landed on her neck. In the next moment, Yashtika was seen laying on the ground motionless.
Watch the video here:
Warning: The following video contains graphic descriptions and imagery of injuries. Viewer discretion is advised for those sensitive to such content.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: Disturbing Incident
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Shocking Video – 17-year-old weightlifter Yastika Acharya dies in Bikaner while attempting to lift 270 kg during training. Tragic loss of a young athlete. 💔 pic.twitter.com/s6c5tAGohj
— زماں (@Delhiite_) February 19, 2025
Related: 32-Year-Old Man Dies Suddenly While Working Out at Gym
Powerlifter Yashtika Acharya reportedly received medical care immediately after the incident, but the doctors pronounced her dead. Her spotter also suffered minor injuries from the incident. Her body was later handed over to her family, who decided not to file a complaint regarding the incident.
The goal of powerlifting is to lift as much weight as possible across three events – squat, bench press, and deadlift. With athletes pushing themselves to the limits, the risk of injuries or even worse consequences is greatly increased. So, unfortunately, there have been multiple cases of athletes passing away while performing lifts or suffering major injuries, such as tearing their quads.
It is still very unfortunate that Yashtika Acharya’s life ended at such a young age. She was clearly very dedicated to the sport of powerlifting and it was something that she enjoyed doing. Despite being just 17-years-old, Yashtika left a huge impact, as seen by the praise she is getting from her friends and colleagues.
Fitness Volt is sending our condolences to family and friends of Yashtika Acharya. She was truly an incredible athlete and person, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. In this time of sorrow, we stand with all those who mourn her loss and celebrate the remarkable life she lived. May her legacy continue to inspire and uplift those who follow in her footsteps.
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