Mirabai Chanu: Olympic Medalist Reveals Relentless Focus on Weightlifting, Even During Family Time

Mirabai Chanu: Weightlifting Demands Relentless Dedication, Even Amidst Family Time

Indian weightlifting sensation Mirabai Chanu reveals the unwavering commitment required to excel in her sport. The mental burden of training and weight management persists, even during moments spent with loved ones. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist in the 49kg category is intensely focused on preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships.

"We do get some respite, particularly after major events like the Asian Games or Olympics. I take time to rest, but then it's straight back into training. Family time is crucial, especially after dedicating so much time to training, it's important to unwind," Mirabai shared on the "Game On" podcast series.

"That period is valuable, but now it’s time to get back to training. Next is the Commonwealth Championships, which is also a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. Our full attention is on that, and all our preparations are directed towards it."

The life of a professional athlete involves sacrifices. "We don’t really get to enjoy traveling. I do go out occasionally, but I can’t truly relax with my family as I’d like, because we have to return to training. We’ve already invested so much time in it, so we must consider recovery and maintenance... these concerns are always present. I constantly think: when should I resume training? Can I replicate my previous performance?"

"So honestly, we're always thinking about training—even while eating! We think: if I eat this, what effect will it have? Will I gain fat? Will my weight go up? Because of this, we can’t even eat what we want to."

Food becomes fuel and a source of anxiety. "I love junk food—especially pizza! Everyone knows that. But I still can’t eat it. Even when I’m not training, I really feel like eating it, but I stop myself and think, ‘If I eat this, how will tomorrow’s training go?’ I have to maintain my weight, especially keeping it at 50 kg. It’s very tough—training and staying at that weight. So, even when I want something, I have to stop myself and say, ‘Not now, focus on the competition first,’" she said.

Mirabai Chanu's dedication has yielded remarkable results, including an Olympic silver medal, a gold and silver at the World Championships, two golds and a silver at the Commonwealth Games, and a bronze at the Asian Championships.