And after years and years of daily practice and training, the reality of returning back to normal can be an emotional struggle for some.
"I think the challenging part is you're relevant when you're relevant and it's not just Olympic athletes," Bode continued. "It's pro athletes, it's musicians, it's parents who are empty nesters. It's a very similar emotional experience for all those different demographics. You're relevant, you're needed, everyone appreciates you and then fairly abruptly in some cases…you're not relevant or you're not needed.
may be challenging to hear for some loyal Olympic fans, Bode says the summer and winter games still have plenty of good. "There are things that need to change and there are ways of changing it. I don't think it's impossible," Bode continued. "I just think we're in a renaissance right now for sports where I think there's going to be a lot of reality checks."as of press time, a spokesperson said "the IOC recognizes the seriousness of the topic."