Shawn Johnson Opens Up About Emotional Struggles After Gymnastics Career
Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson East revealed that she still finds it difficult to express emotions after years of being told she was "worthless" by her coaches during her Olympic career. The admission came during an episode of Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test, aired on Thursday, November 6.
In the exclusive clip, the four-time Olympic medalist shared how much of her athletic journey was dominated by fear and emotional restraint.
“My entire career was fear-based,” said Johnson East, 33. “I had people in powerful positions telling me I was worthless and not wanting to see me succeed in gymnastics. They decided my fate, and if I showed emotion, I was cut.”
She added that throughout her time on the national team, only one expression was permitted — a smile. Yet even that could risk her spot if not displayed at the right time.
“The only emotion you could ever show was a smile, but if you did that while lined up, you were no longer on the National team.”
Johnson East explained that shutting off emotions became a form of survival in gymnastics. However, this emotional detachment has become a challenge in the intense environment of the Special Forces training.
The athlete also reflected on how her obsession with perfection made her doubt her performance on the show’s demanding tasks. Her husband, Andrew East, is also part of this season’s cast, offering her both companionship and support during the experience.
Author’s Summary
Shawn Johnson East candidly shared how years of emotional suppression and perfectionism from her gymnastics career continue to affect her openness and performance on Special Forces.