Ariatna Lizeth Mata Esparza, a 22-year-old nursery school teacher from Torreón, Mexico, tragically collapsed and died while performing barbell squats at her local gym. Esparza, who was known for documenting her fitness journey on TikTok, was a beloved member of her community and had a promising future ahead of her.
On August 16, 2024, Esparza was in the middle of her workout when she suddenly collapsed while lifting a barbell. Despite the immediate response of those around her, including paramedics who arrived shortly after, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of death was later determined to be anoxemia, a condition where the body is deprived of oxygen, which may have been exacerbated by overexertion during the intense workout.
Esparza also suffered from a stroke and had blood clots, the “Daily Mail” reports. According to medical experts, anoxemia can occur when the body is not able to supply enough oxygen to the brain, especially during physically demanding activities. This lack of oxygen can lead to serious complications, including brain damage and, in severe cases, death.
The high altitude of Torreón, located 3,600 feet above sea level, might have also played a role in this tragedy. Exercising at high altitudes can cause oxygen levels in the body to drop, potentially leading to a condition like anoxemia. The gym environment, combined with the intense physical exertion of barbell squats, may have created a perfect storm for this devastating outcome.
Experts emphasize the importance of proper breathing techniques and awareness of one’s physical limits during exercise.
Esparza’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through her community. She was remembered by friends and family as a vibrant young woman who was passionate about fitness and had a deep love for animals. Her mother, Selene Esparza, in a heartfelt social media post, wrote, “My princess, my girl, you’ve gone and left us with empty souls and shattered hearts.”
In the aftermath of this tragedy, health professionals urge individuals who experience symptoms like lightheadedness, shortness of breath, or dizziness during exercise to seek medical advice immediately. While such symptoms can often be harmless, they can also indicate serious underlying health issues that require attention.