Fitness Influencer Dies After Being Crushed by Barbell

Indonesian bodybuilder Justyn Vicky amassed an Instagram following of more than 35,000 by sharing his health tips and workout videos to fans around the world. While getting a workout in at Paradise Bali gym on July 15, however, the athlete was doing squat presses when the exercise turned deadly. 

With the help of a spotter, Vicky had attempted a 450 pound squat press when the bar fell forward onto his neck, pulling his head forward then snapping it back. According to The Daily Mail, the barbell caused a broken neck and critical compression of vital nerves connecting to his heart and lungs. He underwent an emergency operation but died shortly after at the age of 33. 

Tributes began pouring in for the East Java native after his death. Paradise Bali gym, where he worked as a personal trainer, shared touching words on Instagram in the wake of his passing. 

"To our dear Justyn, your impact on our lives is immeasurable," the company wrote. "Your legacy will live on through the countless lives you've touched, the transformations you've inspired, and the love and passion you infused into every moment we spent together."

"Justyn was more than just a fitness expert; he was a beacon of inspiration, motivation, and unwavering support. His infectious energy and genuine passion for helping others transform their lives touched us deeply," the post continued. "Through countless workouts, words of encouragement, and compassionate guidance, he became an irreplaceable part of our fitness journeys and our gym family."

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In a tragic case of foreshadowing, Vicky posted a video on July 5, in which he attempted the same squat that led to his fatal injury. He called it "one of the most dangerous" exercises but noted that when "done properly, a barbell squat is capable of producing degrees of muscle mass increase that cannot be produced by any other exercise."

Our hearts go out to Vicky's loved ones as they cope with this sudden, unexpected loss.

source https://www.mensjournal.com/news/justyn-vicky-dead-33-barbell-squat