A fitness influencer posted a video online highlighting the risk versus reward of a “dangerous as hell” exercise move days before he died from it.
Justyn Vicky, 33, was performing the back squat with reportedly 180 kilograms loaded onto his barbell at a gym in Sanur, Bali when he started to struggle to complete his reps on July 15.
An unverified video widely circulated online reportedly shows the moment the heavily stacked barbell slips forward and pressed against his neck, with the heavy weight causing a severe neck injury.
After the accident, the bodybuilder was rushed to hospital, however he died from his injuries.
Warning about ‘dangerous’ back squats
Mr Vicky was a trainer at Paradise Bali gym and was well-known in the local fitness community, with his Instagram account full of fitness content including a video posted only 10 days before his death highlighting how dangerous the back squat was.
In the video he can be seen performing back squats with a spotter behind him — eerily similar to the image captured in the later video which captured the accident.
“The squat is the single most important exercise ever discovered by man and one of the most dangerous,” the inspirational voiceover says. “It means opportunity but it also means danger … So you have to ask yourself — is the opportunity worth the danger?”.
Community mourn loss of bodybuilder with ‘warm smile’
Condolences have flooded in on social media, with many grief-stricken by the sudden loss of Mr Vicky. The bodybuilder’s workplace led the tributes, sharing kind words to their Instagram account.
“Justyn was more than just a fitness expert; he was a beacon of inspiration, motivation, and unwavering support,” it read. “His infectious energy and genuine passion for helping others transform their lives touched us deeply.”
“His warm smile and genuine interest in our lives made us feel seen and valued… Rest peacefully, dear friend. You will forever remain in our hearts.”
A fellow worker at Paradise Bali and friend of Mr Vicky also created a safety video demonstrating how to set up equipment and escape the back squat position safely if you fail the exercise, with the trainer pointing up at the sky before beginning.
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