Kaitlyn Bristowe Still Suffers Dancing With the Stars Injuries Five Years Later

Kaitlyn Bristowe, winner of Dancing With the Stars season 29, revealed in a September 2025 interview that she continues to suffer from injuries sustained during the competition, including cracked ribs, a muscle strain under her ribs, and tendonitis that flares up when wearing heels. Despite the lingering pain five years later, Bristowe said winning was worth the physical toll and that she would participate again. She shared advice with fellow contestants to avoid injuries, emphasizing how demanding the show is, and noted that fellow winner Hannah Brown had told her that if people knew about the injuries, they might not sign up. Bristowe also reflected on competing without a live audience due to the pandemic, saying that performing with an audience's energy feels different and that she performs better under pressure. As season 34 of Dancing With the Stars premieres on September 16, 2025, Bristowe expressed some jealousy toward the new cast, highlighting the physical and emotional challenges of the show. Her insights underscore the intense preparation and risks behind the glamour of the competition.