22-year-old nursery school teacher from Torreón, Mexico, Ariatna Lizeth Mata Esparza, passed away tragically while performing barbell squats at her local gym. Known for sharing her fitness journey on TikTok, Esparza was well-admired within her community and had a bright future ahead.
Esparza was in the midst of her workout on August 16, 2024, when she suddenly collapsed while lifting a barbell. Despite the swift response of bystanders and paramedics who arrived shortly afterward, she was declared dead on the spot. It was later identified that the cause of death was anoxemia, a condition characterized by a lack of oxygen in the body, which may have been worsened by extreme exertion during her intense workout.
According to the “Daily Mail,” Esparza also had a stroke and blood clots. Medical experts state that anoxemia can occur when the body fails to supply adequate oxygen to the brain, particularly during physically strenuous activities. This oxygen deficiency can result in severe complications like brain damage and, in extreme cases, death.
The high altitude of Torreón, situated approximately 3,600 feet above sea level, could have also contributed to this unfortunate event. Exercise at high altitudes can lead to reduced oxygen levels in the body, potentially inducing a condition like anoxemia. The combination of the gym environment and the intense physical effort required for barbell squats may have led to this devastating result.
Healthcare professionals stress the necessity of proper breathing techniques and recognizing one’s physical boundaries during workouts.
The premature death of Esparza has greatly impacted her community. Friends and family remember her as a lively young woman who was passionate about fitness and cherished animals. Her mother, Selene Esparza, wrote in a heartfelt social media post, “My princess, my girl, you’ve gone and left us with empty souls and shattered hearts.”
In the wake of this tragedy, health professionals are advising individuals who experience symptoms such as lightheadedness, breathlessness, or dizziness during exercise to seek immediate medical consultation. While such symptoms can often be benign, they can also signify serious underlying health problems requiring attention.