The Running Channel Podcast Life After The Olympics Was Not What I Expected... | Colin Jackson
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Apr 22, 2024 
Colin Jackson, former Olympic silver medallist and two-time world champion turned broadcaster and event director, opens up about life after elite sport. He talks about losing identity at retirement, coping with panic attacks and anxiety, finding purpose again through skiing and routine, and how running now helps his wellbeing. The conversation mixes honesty with lighter anecdotes and recovery tips.
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Identity Collapse After Retirement
- Colin Jackson described sudden identity loss after retiring at 36 and feeling lost without a plan.
- He said this triggered frequent panic attacks and a plunge into severe anxiety despite past success.
What A Panic Attack Felt Like
- Colin recounted the physical experience of panic attacks: racing heart, tight chest, profuse sweating and breathlessness.
- He said they felt like 'a heart attack without the physical pain' and lasted around 20 minutes with a draining aftermath.
Controlled Adrenaline ≠ Anxiety Preparedness
- Colin contrasted controllable athletic adrenaline with uncontrollable anxiety, explaining he was prepared for pressure but surprised by panic.
- He noted athletes rehearse stress in a controlled way, which doesn't prepare them for clinical anxiety.