Bodybuilders Life Expectancy: Why Are So Many Bodybuilders Dying Young?

We've recently seen a flurry of articles about bodybuilders dying at very young ages, in recent months we've seen a Spanish bodybuilder collapse and die 37 days before competing in the Olympia, 35 year old Nikita Tkachuk recently passed away and a few months back in March Bodybuilder Jodi Vance died at 20 after a heart attack, and this is just a few of a dozen or more recent articles about bodybuilders passing away before their time. 

In recent years the bodybuilding community has been shaken by the early deaths of several high profile athletes. From legends of the Golden Era of Bodybuilding to rising stars of the modern age, the trend has sparked questions, concern and curiousity regarding why do bodybuilders seem to die  young? Is it the lifestyle, the supplements, steroids, extreme training, or something else entirely?

In this blog we're going to explore how the life expectancy of bodybuilders compares to the general population, the risks they face, and what steps bodybuilders can take to support both performance and longevity. 

Life Expectancy of Bodybuilders Vs. The General Population

The average life expectancy for men in the US hovers around 7 years old according to CDC Data from 2024. In recent years however we've seen many elite bodybuilders passing away tragically in their 30's, 40's or early 50's. While this isn't true across the board, there are bodybuilders who live well into their 70s and even 80s. The average life expectancy for professional bodybuilders appears to be slightly lower, often by 10-15 years. 

A study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine found that elite male bodybuilders from the 1970's to 1990's had a mortality rate 34% higher than the general population, primarily due to cardiovascular and kidney issues. 

Why Do Bodybuilders Die Young?

Performance Enhancing Drugs (Steroids, HGH, Diuretics)

One of the biggest culprits is long term anabolic steroid use. While steroids can dramatically increase muscle mass and give a competitive edge, their risks are severe and include heart enlargement, high blood pressure and arterial damage, kidney strain from overwork and dehydration, increased risk of liver tumors and endocrine disruption. And HGH or Human Growth Hormone and insulin misuse can exacerbate these issues contributing to conditions like cardiomegaly which has been observed in many autopsies of deceased bodybuilders.

Extreme Body Mass

Ever notice how small dogs live to be 16 and 17 and larger breeds tend to pass away at around 10 years of age? Yep, same with humans, carrying large amounts of lean muscle may seem healthier than being overweight but it still puts enormous stress on the heart and joints. At 250-300 plus pounds in competition shape bodybuilders push their bodies beyond what's natural which can strain metabolic, skeletal and cardiovascular systems.

Diuretic & Cutting Drug Use

To achieve that dry shredded look on stage that bodybuilders seek, many use potent diuretics that flush water and electrolytes out of the system which can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, heart arrhythmias and even kidney failure. Even a single misuse can be fatal. 

Chronic Stress & Sleep Disruption

Preparation for shows often involves extreme calorie restriction, overtraining and stimulant us leading to sleep deprivation, high cortisol and immune suppression, all of which may undermine long term health. 

What Can Bodybuilders Do To Improve Longevity?

Health Monitoring

• Get regular echocardiograms, bloodwork and kidney/liver panels
• Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels year round.

Cycle Carefully or Go Natural

• If using PED's consider lower dose cruising protocols or full post cycle therapy.
• Work with medical professionals not underground forums.
• Natural bodybuilding while less extreme in muscle mass is definitely safer.

Prioritize Cardiovascular Health

• Include moderate cardio even during bulking phases
• Manage weight and avoid staying at super heavy offseason weights for longer periods.

Diet

• Diet for health, not just aestethics.
• Add anti-inflammatory whole foos to your diet, not just for macro counting
• Cycle off high protein and high creatine intake to give your kidneys a break.

Focus on Mental Health & Stress Management

• Competition can create intense pressure, make time for recovery and not fitness hobbies.

Final Thoughts

The bodybuilding world is rich with discipline, inspiration, and incredible transformations but its also a sport that has pushed the limits of the human body in ways we still don't fully understand. Recognizing the risks and prioritizing longevity alongside aesthetics may not only help athletes live longer, but also ensure taht their legacy is one of both great ness and health. 

Whether you're a pro, a recreational lifter or just a fan of the sport, staying informed about the realities of bodybuilding life expectancy is the first step twoards a healthier future.