Mirabai Chanu Reveals Relentless Focus: Weightlifting Demands Dominate Even Family Time

Mirabai Chanu, India’s celebrated weightlifter, reveals the relentless mental commitment required to excel in her sport. Even during precious moments with family, the demands of training and maintaining her weight remain a constant presence.

The Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist in the 49kg category is currently focused on preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships.

"We do get some rest, particularly after major events like the Asian Games or Olympics. I took some time off too, but then it was back to training. Spending time with family is crucial, especially after dedicating so much time to training – it’s important to unwind a bit," Mirabai shared on the podcast series Game On.

"That aspect was enjoyable, but now it's time to get back into training mode. The Commonwealth Championships are next, and they also serve as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. So, our entire focus is on that, and all our preparations are directed towards it."

The life of a dedicated athlete involves sacrifices. "We don't really get the chance to enjoy traveling. I do go out occasionally, but I can't truly relax with my family the way I'd like to – because we have to return to training. We've already invested so much time in it, so we have to consider how to recover, how to maintain ourselves... these thoughts are always on my mind. I constantly wonder: when should I resume training? Will I be able to perform as well as I did before?"

Diet is also a constant consideration. "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 increase? Because of this, we can't even eat what we want."

Mirabai confessed her love for a particular indulgence: "I love junk food – especially pizza! Everyone knows that. But I still can't eat it. Even when I'm not training, I really crave 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 restrain myself and say, 'Not now, focus on the competition first.'"

Mirabai Chanu's impressive medal collection includes an Olympic silver medal, a gold and a silver medal at the World Championships, two golds and a silver at the Commonwealth Games, and a bronze at the Asian Championships, underscoring her dedication and achievements in the sport of weightlifting.