Mirabai Chanu Reveals Relentless Focus on Training and Weight Management
Indian weightlifting sensation Mirabai Chanu has opened up about the mental discipline required to compete at the highest level. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist in the 49kg category revealed that the demands of training and weight management are a constant presence in her life, even when spending time with family.
Currently, Chanu is diligently preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships, a crucial event in her quest for further accolades.
"We do get some time to rest, especially after major events like the Asian Games or Olympics. I took some rest too, but then got right back into training," Chanu shared on the Game On podcast series. "Spending time with family is crucial, especially after dedicating so much time to training – it’s essential to relax a little."
She emphasized the importance of refocusing after periods of rest. "That break was good, but now it's time to get back to training. Up next are the Commonwealth Championships, which also serve as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. Our entire focus is on that, and all our preparations are currently directed towards it."
Chanu highlighted the sacrifices athletes make when it comes to travel and leisure. "We don't really get to enjoy traveling. I do go out sometimes, but I can't truly enjoy it 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 must think about recovery and maintenance... these thoughts are always on my mind. I constantly think: when should I restart training? Will I be able to perform as well as before?"
The relentless focus on weight is a significant aspect of her life. "So honestly, we're always thinking about training – even while eating! We consider: if I eat this, what will the effect be? Will I gain fat? Will my weight increase? Because of this, we can’t even eat what we want."
Chanu confessed her love for junk food, especially pizza, but acknowledged the need for restraint. "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.’"
Mirabai Chanu's impressive medal collection 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.
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