The bodybuilding community faces a moment of sorrow as Kristyn Lia, a renowned Women’s Physique bodybuilder and IFBB Pro, has tragically passed away at the age of 39. The news, confirmed through multiple sources, has cast a shadow over the sport, leaving fans and fellow athletes to mourn the loss of a promising talent.
Kristyn Lia, an Australian native, had taken the bold step of relocating to the United States, driven by her ambition to excel in the competitive world of IFBB bodybuilding. Her journey, marked by sheer determination and hard work, saw her earning the coveted IFBB Pro Card in 2021. Lia’s career, although brief, was decorated with remarkable performances in prestigious contests, including the NPC Worldwide Australia and numerous IFBB Pro events.
AJ Kelly, sharing his grief on social media, expressed his condolences, noting Lia’s recent achievements.
“Our condolences go out to her friends and family. She just competed this summer, taking a 3rd place at Atlanta Pro. She just moved to the USA from Australia to get her bodybuilding career started.”
Kristyn Lia’s competitive spirit saw her participating in some of the most significant bodybuilding shows globally, such as the New York Pro and Pittsburgh Pro. Her last appearance was at the 2023 Texas Pro in August, marking her fourth competition of the year. Her performance was highlighted by her third-place finish at the Atlanta Pro, showcasing her dedication and skill in the sport.
Aside from her competitive career, Lia was also a mentor and coach, sharing her expertise and knowledge with aspiring athletes. Her insights in training and diet were invaluable to many in the gym, and her unique and calculated posing routines made her a fan favorite.
In one of her final interviews, Lia openly discussed the challenges she faced in her contest preparations, including the impact of diuretics and lifestyle choices on her performance. These candid revelations offered a glimpse into the rigorous and often taxing world of professional bodybuilding.
Lia’s passing is part of a distressing trend of untimely deaths in the bodybuilding community, including prominent figures like Shawn Rhoden and Cedric McMillan. While the cause of Lia’s death remains undisclosed, it adds to the ongoing concerns regarding the health and well-being of professional bodybuilders.
As the community grapples with this loss, fans and fellow athletes have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of Kristyn Lia. Her legacy, marked by her athletic prowess and her role as a mentor, will continue to inspire and influence the world of bodybuilding.
Kristyn Lia’s career achievements include:
2021
- NPC Worldwide Australia Season A Pro Qualifier
2022
- IFBB Pittsburgh Pro – 13th place
- IFBB New York Pro – 8th place
2023
- IFBB Atlanta Pro – 3rd place
- IFBB Chicago Pro – 11th place
- IFBB Tampa Pro – 9th place
- IFBB Texas Pro – 16th place
In these times of grief, our thoughts are with her friends, family, and the broader bodybuilding community. Kristyn Lia’s contribution to the sport and her impact on those she trained and inspired will not be forgotten.
