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

Mirabai Chanu, India's celebrated weightlifter, reveals the persistent mental demands of her sport, where training and weight considerations remain a constant presence, even when spending quality time with family. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist in the 49kg category is currently focused on preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships.

Mirabai Chanu shares insights on balancing training and family life.

"We do get some rest, particularly after major events like the Asian Games or the Olympics. I take some time off too, but then it's back to training," Chanu stated on Game On, a podcast series. "Family time is crucial, especially after dedicating so much time to training. It's important to relax a bit."

She continued, "That aspect is enjoyable, but now it's time to return to training. Next is the Commonwealth Championships, which also serves as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. Our complete focus is on that, and all our preparations are directed towards it."

The dedication required takes a toll. "We don’t really get to enjoy traveling as much as we'd like. I do go out sometimes, but I can’t fully relax with my family the way I’d like to because we have to get back to training. We’ve already invested so much time, so we have to think about recovery and maintenance... these thoughts are always present. I'm constantly wondering: when should I resume training? Will I be able to perform at my previous level?"

Chanu emphasized the all-encompassing nature of the commitment. "So honestly, we're always thinking about training, even while eating! We consider: what effect will this food have? Will I gain fat? Will my weight increase? Because of this, we can’t even eat what we truly want."

She confessed her cravings, stating, "I love junk food, especially pizza! Everyone knows that. But I still can’t indulge. Even when I’m not training, I really crave it, but I restrain myself, thinking, ‘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 collection includes an Olympic silver medal, 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.