Mirabai Chanu Reveals Relentless Weightlifting Focus: Family Time Can't Dim Training Mindset

NEW DELHI: Mirabai Chanu, India's celebrated weightlifter, reveals the constant mental dedication required by her sport, extending even into her personal life. The silver medalist in the 49kg category at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics is currently preparing for the Commonwealth Championships.

"We do get some rest, especially after major events like the Asian Games or Olympics. I took some rest as well, but then returned to training," Mirabai shared on the "Game On" podcast. "Spending time with family is important, particularly after dedicating so much time to training; it's essential for relaxation."

She continued, "That aspect was positive, but now it's time to resume training. The Commonwealth Championships are next, and they also serve as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. Our complete focus is directed towards that, and all our preparations are currently tailored to it."

Mirabai highlighted the sacrifices involved in maintaining peak performance: "We don’t really get to enjoy traveling. I do go out occasionally, but I can’t truly enjoy time with my family as I would like because we must return to training. We’ve already committed a significant amount of time to it, so we must consider recovery and maintenance... these thoughts are always present. I constantly wonder: when should I start training again? Will I be able to perform at my previous level?"

The mental burden extends to dietary choices as well. "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."

Mirabai confessed her cravings: "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.’"

Her impressive medal collection includes an Olympic silver, a gold and silver at the World Championships, two golds and a silver at the Commonwealth Games, and a bronze at the Asian Championships, underscoring her dedication and sacrifice.