Mirabai Chanu: Olympic Medalist Reveals Relentless Focus on Training and Weight, Even During Downtime

Mirabai Chanu, India's celebrated weightlifter, reveals the relentless mental demands of her sport. Even during moments of respite with family, the pressures of training and maintaining her weight remain a persistent concern. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist in the 49kg category is currently focused on preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships.

Mirabai Chanu discusses her training regime on the Game On podcast.

"We do get some rest, particularly after major events like the Asian Games or Olympics. I took some time to relax, 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," Mirabai shared on the "Game On" podcast.

"That aspect was enjoyable, but now it's time to refocus on training. The Commonwealth Championships are next, which also serve as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. Our complete focus is directed towards that, and our preparations are entirely centered around it."

Mirabai elaborated on the sacrifices required for her demanding career. "We don’t really get to fully enjoy traveling. I do go out occasionally, but I can’t truly enjoy it with my family as I'd like to – because we have to return to training. We’ve already invested so much time, so we must consider recovery and maintenance. These thoughts are always present. I constantly wonder: when should I resume training? Will I be able to perform at my previous level?"

The mental aspect of weight management is particularly challenging. "So honestly, we're always thinking about training – even while eating! We consider: if I eat this, what will the consequences be? Will I gain fat? Will my weight increase? As a result, we can’t even indulge in the foods we crave."

Mirabai confessed her love for 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.’"

Mirabai Chanu's impressive medal haul includes an Olympic silver, a gold and a silver at the World Championships, two golds and a silver at the Commonwealth Games, and a bronze at the Asian Championships.