Fitness continues to be a crucial aspect of many people’s lives, but it carries risks that must be acknowledged. On January 30, 2026, the bodybuilding community mourned the untimely passing of esteemed Chinese bodybuilder Bi Jiaqi at just 26 years old. His unexpected death has sparked important conversations about the intensity of training practices in the bodybuilding world.
Bi Jiaqi was a well-known fitness influencer, actively sharing his journey on Weibo, a popular Chinese social media platform. Just hours before his death, he was busy preparing for his next bodybuilding competition, further underscoring the demanding lifestyle many in the sport pursue.
Friends noticed concerning signs in Jiaqi in recent weeks; they observed unusual purple coloration in his lips and prominent veins in his neck. Initially, they attributed these symptoms to the demands of training, highlighting the potential misjudgment that can occur in high-intensity fitness circles.
Chinese Bodybuilding Influencer Bi Jiaqi Passes Away at 26
Various media outlets reported on Jiaqi’s passing, raising awareness about the heavy toll that extreme training regimens can take on cardiovascular health. Experts have highlighted the strain that prolonged high-intensity workouts place on the heart. One cardiologist emphasized that methods commonly used in bodybuilding — such as dehydration and drastic fat loss — can thicken the blood, potentially leading to serious health risks.
“Dehydration and aggressive weight management practices prevalent before competitions can significantly increase the risk of thrombosis,” he explained. This warning serves as a crucial reminder that both inactivity and extreme exercise can be detrimental to heart health.
Days before his passing, Jiaqi lightheartedly shared a selfie, joking about experiencing swelling in his head, describing it as resembling a “steamed bun.” Unfortunately, this humor masked the signs of what was to come.
Tragically, Bi Jiaqi is not the only individual to suffer early in the bodybuilding sphere. Several notable bodybuilders have passed away under alarming circumstances, raising questions about the safety of certain practices. Fitness legends, including seven-time Mr. Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger, have publicly acknowledged the dangers associated with this competitive sport.
Currently, an autopsy is being conducted to ascertain the exact cause of Bi Jiaqi’s death. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.
As the fitness community reflects on this tragedy, it is essential for those engaging in intense training to prioritize their health. Staying informed about the risks, listening to one’s body, and adopting balanced training methods can make a significant difference. Remember, fitness is a lifelong journey, not a sprint to the finish line.
