Ariatna Lizeth Mata Esparza, a 22-year-old preschool teacher from Torreón, Mexico, died suddenly while performing barbell squats at her local fitness center. Known for sharing her fitness journey on TikTok, Esparza was a well-respected figure in her community.
Esparza was working out on August 16, 2024, when she collapsed mid-lift. Despite immediate assistance from gym-goers and paramedics, who arrived shortly after, she was declared dead at the scene. Anoxemia, a condition resulting from a lack of oxygen in the body, was later identified as the cause of death. Overexertion during her workout may have worsened this condition.
According to The Daily Mail, Esparza had suffered from a stroke and blood clots. Medical professionals state that anoxemia can occur if the body fails to supply sufficient oxygen to the brain, particularly during strenuous physical activities. This oxygen deficiency can lead to severe complications, including brain damage and, in extreme cases, death.
The high altitude of Torreón, situated at approximately 3,600 feet above sea level, may have also contributed to this unfortunate event. Exercise at high altitudes can decrease oxygen levels in the body, potentially resulting in conditions like anoxemia. The combination of the gym setting and the intense exertion from barbell squats may have created the conditions for this tragic event.
Specialists stress the significance of proper breathing techniques and understanding one’s physical limitations while working out.
The sudden death of Esparza has left her community in shock. Friends and family remembered her as a lively young woman with a passion for fitness and a deep affection for animals. Her mother, Selene Esparza, shared a heartfelt message on social media, saying, “My princess, my girl, you’ve gone and left us with empty souls and shattered hearts.”
In the wake of this incident, health experts urge anyone experiencing symptoms such as lightheadedness, shortness of breath, or dizziness during exercise to seek immediate medical attention. While these symptoms can often be innocuous, they can also signal serious underlying health conditions that require medical intervention.
