Imagine training your whole life to be the best—and still feeling like you’re chasing a shadow. That’s the effect Simone Biles has on even Olympic-level athletes like Suni Lee.
In a recent eye-opening revelation, Suni Lee candidly admitted that Biles’ routines are so extreme, they “push gymnasts to their breaking point.” It wasn’t said with envy, but with jaw-dropped admiration. Let’s unpack what makes Biles’ routines so revolutionary—and why even elite gymnasts are left saying, “That’s simply crazy to me.”
Simone Biles—The Unreachable Benchmark in Gymnastics
The Queen of Difficulty Scores
Simone Biles doesn’t just compete—she redefines what’s humanly possible. Her routines consistently score higher because they pack insane difficulty levels few dare to attempt.
Breaking the Code of Points
What most people don’t realize is that the Code of Points, gymnastics’ scoring guide, has had to be restructured due to Biles’ routines. No one else is close.
Skills Named After Biles
Let’s talk about legacy. Simone already has five named skills—two on floor, two on vault, and one on beam. That’s unheard of. It’s like inventing your own words and having them added to the dictionary.
Suni Lee’s Honest Take—Shock, Awe, and Exhaustion
“That’s Simply Crazy to Me”—Not Just a Catchphrase
When Suni Lee, an Olympic all-around gold medalist herself, says something’s crazy, you pay attention. She wasn’t throwing shade—she was pointing out how mentally and physically taxing it is to even consider replicating Biles’ moves.
The Pressure to Keep Up
It’s not just about staying in the competition—it’s about not falling behind the impossible standard Biles sets. Lee admitted it’s nearly impossible to match without risking injury or burnout.
The Fine Line Between Inspiration and Intimidation
When Role Models Become Mental Obstacles
Yes, Biles inspires a generation—but she also unintentionally raises the bar so high that it can lead to mental fatigue for others trying to match her level.
Pushing Past the Breaking Point
Lee’s comments highlight a critical issue in elite sports: How far should athletes go before it becomes unsafe, mentally or physically?
Inside Simone’s Legendary Routines
The Yurchenko Double Pike Vault
This vault is so dangerous that few men even attempt it. Simone nailed it. Repeatedly. And made it look effortless.
Triple-Double on Floor
Imagine twisting your body three times while flipping twice in the air. Now try doing that with perfect form. That’s what Simone does—routinely.
The Mental Toll on Fellow Gymnasts
“Am I Good Enough?” Syndrome
Many gymnasts, even elite ones, start questioning their worth when they can’t reach Simone’s level. It leads to mental health challenges, anxiety, and even depression.
Social Media Comparison Culture
Biles’ routines go viral instantly. While it’s great for the sport, it can spark harmful comparisons among younger gymnasts still developing their skills.
The Hidden Cost—Injuries and Recovery
Training for Simone-Level Difficulty Is Risky
Biles’ routines aren’t just beautiful—they’re dangerous. Gymnasts trying to replicate her skills often get injured attempting moves they’re not conditioned for.
Suni Lee’s Kidney Issues and Comeback
Let’s not forget Lee’s recent battle with a rare kidney condition. Coming back to elite gymnastics after that and seeing Simone perform impossibly high-difficulty routines? It’s no wonder Lee feels overwhelmed.
Simone Biles Isn’t Just Good—She’s Revolutionary
Changing the Game Forever
Simone didn’t just play the game. She reprogrammed it. New generations will train on her legacy—but many will also feel the heavy weight of her shadow.
Coaches Are Rewriting Training Programs
Many gymnastics coaches now tailor routines around Biles-like difficulty—even if the athlete isn’t ready. That’s both a testament to her impact and a risk factor for young gymnasts.
Where Do We Go From Here?
Embracing Individual Strengths
Instead of trying to out-Biles Biles, athletes like Suni Lee are starting to focus on precision, artistry, and execution, not just difficulty. And that’s a beautiful shift.
Advocating for Mental Health and Safety
Lee’s candid remarks open the door for real conversations around mental health in gymnastics. It’s not just about landing a vault—it’s about surviving the sport mentally and emotionally.
Conclusion: Awe, Respect, and a Wake-Up Call
Suni Lee’s reaction to Simone Biles’ routines isn’t about jealousy—it’s about respect. Deep, honest, and borderline fearful respect. Simone Biles represents the pinnacle of what a human body can achieve—but that comes with consequences.
Her presence is a gift to the sport—but it’s also a glaring spotlight on how hard the rest must push to keep up. And sometimes, as Lee rightly puts it, “That’s simply crazy.”
5 Unique FAQs
Q1: Why did Suni Lee say Simone Biles’ routines are “crazy”?
Because Biles performs high-risk, incredibly difficult routines that most gymnasts find impossible to replicate safely.
Q2: Has Simone Biles ever addressed the pressure she puts on others?
Yes, Biles has been open about her own mental health struggles and advocates for mental wellness in sports.
Q3: Are younger gymnasts expected to perform routines like Biles’?
Unfortunately, many feel pressured to attempt similar moves, even if they’re not fully ready—leading to increased injuries and stress.
Q4: How does Suni Lee plan to stay competitive?
Lee focuses on clean execution, consistency, and mental resilience rather than matching Biles’ level of difficulty.
Q5: What’s the biggest takeaway from Suni Lee’s comments?
That admiration for greatness must be balanced with realistic expectations and care for athletes’ mental and physical health.
