On the other hand, elite bodybuilders are dying under age 66 at a much faster rate than pro athletes in major sports. Heart and kidney maladies are the disproportionate causes, and performance-enhancing drugs are the most likely culprits.

Do bodybuilders have a shorter life span?

SAN DIEGO—Bodybuilders have a mortality rate 34% higher than that of the age-matched U.S. male population, according to a study presented at the American Urological Association's 2016 annual meeting. ... The mean age of death was 47.7 years (range 26.6 – 75.4 years).

Why do bodybuilders get heart attacks?

Sometimes, youngsters get motivated to try out body-building activities like weight-lifting. Too much exercise in a short span can lead to problems. A thorough medical check-up is important before starting any high-intensity exercise as this may trigger rupture of the plaque, leading to a heart attack.