Mirabai Chanu Reveals Relentless Training Focus, Weight Management Struggles, Even During Family Time

Mirabai Chanu, India's celebrated weightlifter, reveals the constant mental juggling act between rigorous training and maintaining her weight, a concern that persists even during cherished moments with family. The silver medalist in the 49kg category at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics is currently focused on preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships.

Mirabai Chanu is the newest guest on the Game On podcast.

"We do get some rest, especially after major events like the Asian Games or Olympics," Mirabai shared on "Game On," a podcast series. "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 a bit."

She continued, "That aspect was enjoyable, but now it’s time to refocus on training. Next is the Commonwealth Championships, which also serves as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. Our full attention is on that, and our preparations are entirely directed towards it."

The life of a top athlete involves sacrifices, and Mirabai elaborates on the challenges of balancing personal life with professional demands.

"We don't really get to enjoy traveling. I do go out sometimes, but I can’t really enjoy with my family the way I’d like to – because we have to get back to training. We’ve already given so much time to it, so we have to think about how to recover, how to maintain ourselves... these things are always on my mind. I keep thinking: when should I restart training? Will I be able to perform like I did before?"

The mental toll of constantly monitoring diet and weight is significant. "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 openly admits her cravings for certain foods but recognizes the need for discipline. "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 impressive medal haul includes:

• Olympic Silver Medal
• World Championships: Gold and Silver Medal
• Commonwealth Games: Two Gold and One Silver Medal
• Asian Championships: Bronze Medal