Full Breakdown
Champion Bodybuilder Juan Sebastian Anzola Quintero Dies During Workout
2/12/2026, 3:14:36 AM
Sudden Collapse at Smart Fit Gym
Juan Sebastian Anzola Quintero, a champion bodybuilder, collapsed and died from a heart attack while working out at a Smart Fit gym in the Plaza Imperial shopping center in the Suba district of Bogotá, Colombia, on February 5, 2026. Eyewitnesses reported that Anzola, known as "Sebas" and "Juanse," was lifting weights when he suddenly fell to the ground. Despite immediate efforts from gym staff and bystanders, including the use of a defibrillator and CPR for approximately 25 minutes, he could not be revived.
Background on Anzola
Anzola was a prominent figure in Bogotá's fitness community, having won five titles in bodybuilding and classic physique competitions. He was also an industrial designer and a trainer with a master's-level background in physical wellbeing and mindset development. Anzola operated a business selling nutritional supplements and was active on social media, where he shared fitness advice and documented his training routines.
Emergency Response and Criticism
Smart Fit gym staff activated emergency protocols and attempted to provide first aid, but concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of their response. Andres Montoya, a close friend of Anzola, criticized the gym for allegedly lacking properly trained personnel and sufficient equipment to handle such emergencies. He noted that despite a police officer's approval to transport Anzola to the nearby Suba Hospital, which was only a block and a half away, the gym did not move him, leading to further outrage.
Community Reaction and Calls for Investigation
Following Anzola's death, friends and family have called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his collapse. The gym's decision to reopen the following morning after the incident sparked additional backlash on social media. Anzola was laid to rest on February 8, 2026, at Jardines del Recuerdo cemetery in northern Bogotá.
Official Statements
Smart Fit expressed its condolences to Anzola's family and confirmed that their team of certified first responders acted promptly during the emergency. The gym stated, "Unfortunately, the person died before transfer," acknowledging the tragic outcome of the incident.
Verbatim Quotes
“Unfortunately, the person died before transfer,” — Smart Fit spokesperson
“View 4 Images Close friends of the bodybuilder have raised concerns surrounding the gym's response to Anzola's collapse (Image: Newsflash) Montoya stated: "We cannot guarantee he would have been saved, but there could have been a possibility of a different outcome.” — Andres Montoya, friend of Anzola
What's Next
As the community mourns Anzola's passing, calls for accountability and improvements in emergency response protocols at fitness facilities are likely to gain momentum. Investigations into the incident may lead to changes in gym safety standards and training requirements for staff.
