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

Mind on the Barbell: Mirabai Chanu's Relentless Pursuit of Excellence

Mirabai Chanu, India's celebrated weightlifter, reveals the unwavering dedication required to compete at the highest level. Even during moments spent with family, the demands of training and weight management remain a constant presence in her thoughts. The silver medalist from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (49kg category) is currently focused on preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships.

"We get a little time to rest, especially after major events like the Asian Games or Olympics. I take that rest, but then it’s straight back to training. Spending time with family is incredibly important – it's necessary to relax a little after dedicating so much time to the sport," Mirabai shared on "Game On," a podcast series.

"That period is good, but then it’s time to face training again. Up next are the Commonwealth Championships, which also serve as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. Our complete focus is on that, and all our preparations are currently directed towards it."

The sacrifices extend beyond time spent in the gym. "We don’t really get to enjoy traveling. I do go out sometimes, but I can’t fully 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 constantly think about recovery and maintenance. 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 discipline extends to her diet. "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."

Chanu admits to craving certain indulgences. "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 haul 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, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to weightlifting.