A tragic incident unfolded at a local gym in Torreón, Mexico, when 22-year-old Ariatna Lizeth Mata Esparza, a nursery school teacher and popular TikTok fitness influencer, collapsed and died while performing barbell squats. The incident occurred on August 16, 2024.

According to eyewitnesses, Esparza was in the midst of her workout when she suddenly collapsed while lifting the barbell. Despite the swift response from those present, including paramedics who arrived promptly, she was declared dead on site. The cause of her death was later identified as anoxemia, a medical condition characterized by the deprivation of oxygen in the body, potentially worsened by the strenuous workout.

Medical experts clarify that anoxemia can occur if the body is unable to deliver sufficient oxygen to the brain, particularly during intense physical activities. This oxygen deficiency can precipitate grave complications, including brain damage and, in extreme cases, death.

The location of Torreón, situated 3,600 feet above sea level, may have been a contributing factor in this unfortunate incident. Physical exertion at high altitudes can result in a decrease in body oxygen levels, potentially leading to conditions such as anoxemia. The combination of the gym’s altitude and the demanding nature of barbell squats might have created conditions conducive to this fatal incident.

Medical professionals stress the significance of appropriate breathing techniques and recognizing one’s physical boundaries when exercising.

The sudden death of Esparza has deeply impacted her community. Known for her love for fitness and passion for animals, she is remembered as a lively young woman. Her mother, Selene Esparza, expressed her grief in a touching social media post, “My princess, my girl, you’ve gone and left us with empty souls and shattered hearts.”

Following this unfortunate event, health experts advise individuals experiencing symptoms such as lightheadedness, difficulty in breathing, or dizziness during exercises to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms, while often benign, could also indicate severe underlying health conditions that need prompt attention.