Tragedy Strikes as Brazilian Man Dies During Gymbench Press
In a heartbreaking incident that captured global attention in December, a 55-year-old Brazilian man lost his life during a bench press at a gym in Olinda.
A chilling video shared widely across social media shows the man performing a bench press when, unexpectedly, a barbell slips from his grasp and crashes onto his chest. The footage from a security camera reveals the harrowing moment as he momentarily stands after the mishap, only to succumb and collapse onto the gym floor. The entire ordeal unfolds in a mere ten seconds, but its impact is lasting.
According to Brazilian news outlet G1, the man was a dedicated gym-goer, having trained for over three decades at the same fitness venue. He was known to be an enthusiastic lifter, committed to maintaining his health and fitness.
Observers have noted a critical detail in the video: the grip he used on the barbell. Known as the “monkey grip,” this technique involves placing the thumbs on the same side of the bar as the other fingers, which can compromise the security of the hold. Critics of this grip, such as fitness expert Jari “Bull” Mentula, have expressed their concerns, stating, “I personally don’t like the monkey grip. I prefer to squeeze the bar firmly, which stabilizes it. I don’t see the benefit of the monkey grip.”
For those unfamiliar with the terminology, the traditional grip—often deemed safer—“locks” the bar in place with the thumb wrapped around it, providing greater control during heavy lifts.
As the community mourns this tragic loss, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures in the gym and the critical need for proper lifting techniques.