The fitness community is mourning the loss of bodybuilder Jodi Vance while campaigning for awareness for a better, healthier lifestyle from athletes. On February 27, 2025, the 20-year-old unexpectedly passed due to a heart attack associated with her use of substances.ย Vance was in Ohio, attending the Arnold Sports Festival, when she passed away.
While at the event, she began to feel sick and was taken to a hospital. Vance wasn’t there to compete, but to support other bodybuilders, TMZ reports. The sad news of her death left the industry in shock. While some bashed Vance’s coach for letting her get involved with substances, others advocated for better training practices. Jodi Vanceโs sudden death was announced by her family on her Instagram. The post showed a picture of the athlete smiling while flashing her medals. In the accompanying caption, the family revealed the athleteโs death was sudden and unexpected as her โheart stopped due to complications of severe dehydration.” The post further disclosed a heartbreaking plea from the family, warning:
“If anyone takes anything from this, please put your heath first.”
Several fans were shocked by the news. They took to expressing their grief in the comments, advising that Vanceโs life should be an example.
One commenter wrote, โSad when bodybuilding is supposed to promote wellness, health and vitality. Most people donโt know how unhealthy athletes are when they step on stage. Itโs a damn shame this continues to happen. Something needs to be done.“
Another commenter voiced their condolences before bashing Vanceโs coach, Justin Mihaly. โIf you hired a coach and he makes you take diuretics for a show, FIRE HIM ON THE SPOT,โ the person wrote. “May her life serve as a lesson to all.โ
A third observer noted that the loss of the athlete was unfortunate as she was preparing for her wedding. A fourth fan criticized the late athleteโs coach, writing, โToo many coaches out there donโt know what the hell theyโre doing.โ
Jodi Vanceโs Coach, Justin Mihaly, Speaks Up About Use Of Substance
As fans continued to point fingers, bashing the late sportswomanโs coach, Mihaly came online to clear the air. In an Instagram post, the trainer disclosed that unknown to him or Vanceโs family, she was taking two โextremely hazardousโ substances to enhance her body.
Mihaly further disclosed that one of the drugs that was used was Diuretics. Vance had earlier expressed her interest in the drug to him. However, he had a conversation with her, and they both decided it was not to be used. Sadly, from the hospital records, it showed that the drug had been used.ย
Concluding the video, the fitness enthusiast warned that death threats targeted towards him would be reported.
