By News Karnataka
Copyright newskarnataka
Former sprinting legend admits to breathlessness
Usain Bolt, the retired Jamaican sprinting superstar, has revealed that even climbing a flight of stairs now leaves him out of breath. Although he holds multiple world records, his current physical condition is very different from his peak athletic days.
From sprinting world-records to a quieter life
Bolt’s records in the 100 m (9.58 seconds), 200 m (19.19 seconds), and 4×100 m relay (36.84 seconds) still stand. Between 2008 and 2016, he collected eight Olympic golds and 11 world titles, dominating global athletics and becoming one of the most iconic sports figures. However, his lifestyle after retirement in 2017 has become far more relaxed and less physically demanding.
Health issues and fitness setbacks
Several factors contribute to Bolt’s reduced stamina:
He suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon last year, which has severely limited his ability to run.
These issues, along with reduced intensity of training and less regular physical activity, make tasks like climbing stairs feel strenuous.
Reflections on athletics and legacy
Bolt expressed that he spends much of his time now with family, watching shows, building Lego with his children, and relaxing. He acknowledged that to improve his breathing and fitness, he might have to start running laps again or engage in more regular cardio workouts.
He also commented on the current crop of male sprinters, saying that despite advances in track and spike technology, he believes his generation had superior natural talent. While women’s times continue to improve, he feels the men’s side has not matched previous benchmarks.
Bolt plans to take his children to the 2027 World Championships in Beijing, the city where he first made his mark in 2008, to show them where his Olympic journey began.
Usain Bolt’s candid admission about struggling with stairs highlights the inevitable changes that come with age, injury, and retirement—even for one of the greatest athletes in history. His current condition doesn’t diminish his legacy, but it reminds us that every legend eventually transitions into a different phase of life.
