Champion bodybuilder dies in entrance of horrified gym-goers throughout gruelling exercise
Juan Sebastian Anzola Quintero collapsed mid-workout and died on the gym floor after suffering a sudden ‘cardiorespiratory arrest’ while lifting weights
The bodybuilder tragically collapsed and passed away mid workout (Image: Newsflash)
A bodybuilding champion collapsed mid-workout and died on the gym floor after suffering a sudden cardiorespiratory arrest – leaving fellow gymgoers horrified.
The shocking incident unfolded at the Smart Fit gym nestled inside the Plaza Imperial shopping centre in the Suba district of Bogota city, Colombia, on 5th February. Juan Sebastian Anzola Quintero, affectionately known as “Sebas” and “Juanse” to his mates and followers, was in the midst of his usual workout when he suddenly collapsed. Eyewitnesses reported he’d been lifting weights just moments before the fall.
Onlookers immediately rushed to his aid, frantically attempting resuscitation on the gym floor, while others stood by in shock. Witnesses later relayed the desperate efforts to revive him as the emergency situation escalated. In an official statement, Smart Fit Colombia confirmed Anzola “presented in a sudden manner a cardiorespiratory arrest” during his training session.
The gym assured its team of certified first responders sprang into action without delay, providing first aid in accordance with protocol, carrying out resuscitation manoeuvres and deploying an automated external defibrillator (AED).
The gym further stated alongside the first aid efforts, its emergency protocol was triggered and the protected area service responded to the call. “Unfortunately, the person died before transfer,” the statement read. Smart Fit extended its deepest condolences to his family, loved ones and friends.
However others have raised concerns about the response to the emergency. Andres Montoya, a close friend of Anzola, claimed over 25 minutes had passed while people tried to revive him, and alleged the gym lacked adequately trained staff and proper equipment to deal with the situation.
Montoya stated: “We cannot guarantee he would have been saved, but there could have been a possibility of a different outcome.” He also criticised the gym’s decision not to move Anzola to the nearby Suba Hospital, which was reportedly just a block and a half away, despite a police officer giving the green light to transport him.
The gym’s decision to reopen the following morning sparked outrage on social media. Anzola was a well-known figure in Bogota’s fitness community, often sharing his training and competition exploits on Instagram. By profession Anzola was an industrial designer, but also worked as a trainer with a master’s-level background in physical wellbeing and mindset development.
According to his social media profiles, Anzola had won five overall titles in bodybuilding and classic physique, and consistently placed in the top three in NPC competitions. He also ran a business selling nutritional and energy supplements, frequently doling out advice on training, rest, and discipline to his followers.
Friends and family are now calling for a thorough investigation into the cause of his death. He was laid to rest on Sunday, 8 February, at Jardines del Recuerdo cemetery in northern Bogota.
