Fitness influencer and competitive bodybuilder Bi Jiaqi has died suddenly in his sleep at the age of 26. Friends said he passed away Friday morning, just hours after discussing plans for an upcoming bodybuilding competition.
Concerns in the Days Before His Death
Those close to Jiaqi said he appeared unwell in the days leading up to his death but assumed it was due to intense training. Friends later pointed to warning signs seen in recent photos, including purple-colored lips, extreme fatigue, and abnormally bulging blood vessels in his neck.
They said the symptoms may indicate oxygen deficiency and circulatory issues, conditions that can increase the risk of cardiac arrest. The exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Extreme Training and Dehydration Practices
Earlier this month, Jiaqi shared a selfie on social media joking that his “head was swollen like a steamed bun.” His training partners reportedly believed the condition was linked to extreme fat loss and dehydration ahead of competition.
Many competitive bodybuilders reduce water and salt intake to achieve muscle definition, a practice that experts warn can put severe strain on the heart.
Medical Experts Warn of Cardiovascular Risks
Zhang Yu, a cardiologist at Fuwai Hospital in Shenzhen, said prolonged high-intensity training can heavily burden the cardiovascular system.
He warned that dehydration and aggressive fat-cutting methods can thicken the blood, significantly increasing the risk of blood clots. Long-term overload training, he added, may also lead to heart muscle enlargement and fibrosis, raising the risk of sudden death.
Shock and Grief From Followers
Jiaqi, who was from Ningbo, China, had recently purchased a new home and planned to host friends once renovations were complete. He died before the work was finished.
Fans on Weibo expressed shock at his passing, with many saying they believed the young athlete was “invincible.” An autopsy is expected to determine the official cause of death.
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