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Yashtika Acharya, an aspiring weightlifter from Bikaner, tragically died from lifting excessive weight, underscoring the need for proper form, safety, and gradual progression
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A video circulating on social media, depicting Yashtika Acharya weightlifting, has sparked concern. (News18 Hindi)
Karnam Malleswari made history as the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in weightlifting, earning bronze at the 2000 Sydney Games. Her accomplishment ignited a passion for the sport among young Indians, inspiring many to pursue weightlifting careers. Yashtika Acharya, from Bikaner, was one such aspiring athlete. The gold-medallist power-lifter in the Junior National Games tragically died when a 270-kg rod fell on her neck during practice.
A video circulating on social media, depicting Yashtika Acharya weightlifting, has sparked concern. The video, which shows Acharya’s neck allegedly breaking upon lifting a weight, has raised questions about safe weightlifting practices.
While the video’s authenticity and the details surrounding the incident remain unverified, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper form and safety measures in weightlifting.
Let’s delve into the principles of safe weightlifting and the essential rules to follow:
According to the Olympics.com website, “In the clean and jerk, the weightlifter first has to lift the barbell and bring it to their chest (clean). Then they have to hold their arms and legs to lift it above their head with a straight elbow.”
If their body is not balanced during this manoeuvre, it can increase the strain on the muscles, potentially leading to fatal consequences.
Lifting excessive weight can lead to a dangerous spike in blood pressure, placing significant strain on the cardiovascular system. This strain can, in severe cases, cause damage to blood vessels, including those in the heart.
While extremely rare, a tear in a major heart vessel could lead to a catastrophic event and potentially death. However, it is crucial to note that such an occurrence is highly unlikely from weightlifting alone and usually involves pre-existing conditions.
When it comes to clean and jerk weightlifting, ensuring athlete safety is paramount. Here are some key dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
Dos
Warm-Up Properly: One should always start with a thorough warm-up to prepare one’s muscles and joints for the intense activity.
Use Proper Technique: Focus on maintaining correct form throughout the lift. This includes keeping a neutral spine, engaging your core, and using one’s legs to drive the weight.
Progress Gradually: Increase weights progressively to avoid overloading your muscles and joints.
Wear Appropriate Gear: Use weightlifting shoes for better stability and a weightlifting belt to support your lower back.
Stay Hydrated: One should keep themselves hydrated to maintain muscle function and prevent cramps.
Have a Spotter: Having a spotter can help prevent accidents especially when lifting heavy weights.
Don’ts
Avoid Overtraining: One should give their body adequate rest between sessions to prevent overuse injuries.
Don’t Skip the Warm-Up: Skipping the warm-up can increase the risk of muscle strains and injuries.
Don’t Use Poor Form: Lifting with improper technique can lead to serious injuries, particularly to the back, shoulders, and knees.
Avoid Lifting Too Heavy Too Soon: Lifting weights that are too heavy can cause acute injuries and long-term damage.
Don’t Ignore Pain: If one feels pain during a lift, they should stop immediately and assess the situation. Continuing to lift through pain can exacerbate injuries.