Yashtika Acharya death: Don't make these weightlifting and exercise mistakes, warns fitness coach

Yashtika had recently won gold and silver medals in the 33rd National Bench Press Championship (Courtesy: X)

The death of Yashtika Acharya, a 17-year-old gold medallist powerlifter  from Rajasthan's Bikaner district, has once again put the spotlight on the need to follow proper safety protocols while training in the gym or exercising. Yashtika reportedly died when a 270-kg weightlifting rod fell on her neck while attempting a heavy lift.

The accident has sent shockwaves within the fitness community, prompting renewed calls for stricter safety measures in gyms. Speaking about the incident Ajay Singh, Celebrity Fitness Coach, Indian Polo Team, Jaipur, says, “Powerlifting comprises three main lifts: the squat, the bench press, and the deadlift. Competitors aim to lift the maximum possible weight in each category, requiring intense physical preparation, technical precision, and mental fortitude. But alongside these elements comes an inherent risk, one that cannot be ignored.”

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The first pillar, says Singh, is of safety and proper supervision. “Trainers and spotters are not merely observers. They are lifelines. Their role is to make sure that every lift, especially at high weights, can be safely aborted if something goes wrong. When dealing with hundreds of kilograms, even a momentary lapse can result in disaster, just like in Yashtika’s case.”

Equally crucial, adds Singh, is equipment maintenance. “Barbells, racks, and weight plates must be inspected regularly to avoid mechanical failures. The importance of using safety bars, collars, and appropriate footwear cannot be overstated.”

Another key factor is progressive overload. “It is a foundational principle in strength training. Lifters must resist the temptation to add too much weight too soon, a mistake that can result in catastrophic injury. Responsible coaches know how to structure training programmes that build strength incrementally, with periods of deloading to allow for recovery,” warns Singh.

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Mental readiness also plays a significant role. Lifting hundreds of kilograms demands focus, confidence, and respect for one's physical limitations. “It is not merely a test of muscle, but of discipline and awareness. Yashtika Acharya's tragic passing serves as a reminder of the stakes involved in competitive lifting,” Singh says, adding, "A coach isn’t just a trainer; they need to communicate, talk to their athletes, and make them feel comfortable. Building trust is just as important as building strength. Also, athletes thrive on focus, and coaches must be careful not to disrupt their concentration while still providing the right guidance and motivation."

As the sport grows in popularity, especially among young athletes, there is an urgent need for gym owners, trainers, and lifters themselves to prioritise safety over records and reputation. The challenge of lifting 270 kgs is too much for a 17-year-old, opines Singh, “Every athlete has a different capacity, and a good coach understands those limits, pushing too hard or too little can impact performance. Also, for such demanding training, a single coach isn’t enough; there should be a minimum of three trainers to ensure proper guidance, injury prevention, and watch the progress."

Beyond the gym floor, this incident calls for broader conversations about sports safety regulations in India. “Mandatory certifications for powerlifting coaches, standardised equipment checks, and emergency response protocols could save lives and prevent such devastating losses” says Singh.

Yashitika’s dedication to her sport was undeniable, and her memory must now inspire a collective commitment to making powerlifting safer for all who step under the barbell. Strength, after all, is not just about lifting weights, it’s about lifting each other up, with care and safety, every step of the way.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.