Man Narrowly Avoids Being Crushed Under Barbell After Weightlifting Mishap: Expert Advice on Preventing Bench Press Accidents

Bench presses are a gym favourite for building chest and arm strength. But even seasoned lifters can face life-threatening dangers in seconds. A recent viral video highlights the hidden risks of this common exercise without revealing too much, it’s a wake-up call for anyone who lifts weights. While the incident ended without tragedy, it underscores why safety can’t be ignored. Read ahead to know what went wrong and get expert-backed tips to keep your workouts safe. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, these lessons could save your life.

The Incident: A Terrifying Reminder

OMG 😨
This is pure ego lifting because that’s clearly a weight he hasn’t done before. A very lucky man pic.twitter.com/Na86vY08eD

— JAVON NEW ACCOUNT‼️ 🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲 (@JavonReal2) February 7, 2025

A shocking video shows just how fast a bench press can go wrong. A muscular man, seemingly confident, lies under a barbell loaded with heavy weights. As he struggles to lift it, the bar slips and crashes onto his neck. He chokes, unable to breathe or call for help. A woman nearby rushes to assist but can’t lift the bar alone. Miraculously, the man frees himself at the last moment. The video ends as a stark warning: lifting without safety measures or supervision can turn deadly in seconds.

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Expert Tips to Prevent Bench Press Accidents

According to Varnit Yadav, Online Fitness and Nutrition Coach, Lucknow, the bench press is one of the best movements to include in your training routine to develop your upper body, including strengthening your chest, shoulders, and triceps. “Mastering the form and technique, as well as understanding the movement patterns, is crucial for the bench press. Equally important is learning how to fail safely during this movement, ensuring you're always in control,” he said. 

Here's a list of suggestions you must remember before trying to push heavier in this exercise. 

• Learning how to rack and re-rack the barbell should be prioritised.
• If you are pushing a heavy weight, you need a spotter who can help take that weight away from you if required.
• If you are lifting alone and aiming for a heavy set, never put clips on your barbell so you can slide off the weights on either side in case of a mishap. 
• Consider using equipment that provides you with a safety bar or a power rack. These tools act as a safety net, catching the barbell if you fail to lift it, thereby preventing potential injuries.
• Go through a proper warmup routine and mobility drills before attempting the lift. 
• Remember your breathing techniques (eg. Valsalva manoeuvre) and use wrist wraps for better stability.

Why Supervision Matters

The man in the video was lucky but many aren’t. Gyms can be busy, but never assume someone will notice if you’re in trouble. Trainers aren’t just for beginners; even experts benefit from a second pair of eyes. If you’re new to bench pressing, book a session with a coach to learn the basics.

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Conclusion: Stay Safe, Stay Strong

Fitness is about progress, not shortcuts. That viral incident could’ve been avoided with a spotter, safety bars, or lighter weights. Remember, no workout is worth risking your life. Share these tips with gym buddies, and always prioritise safety over impressing others. After all, the best lifters aren’t those who lift the heaviest, they're those who lift the smartest.