Mirabai Chanu: Olympic Medalist Reveals Constant Mental Battle with Weight, Training, Even During Family Time

NEW DELHI: Renowned Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu reveals the relentless pressure of training and maintaining her weight is a constant presence in her life, even when spending quality time with her family. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist in the 49kg category is currently focused on preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships.

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

"That aspect was beneficial, but now it's time to concentrate on training again. The Commonwealth Championships are next, which will also serve as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. Consequently, our entire focus and preparations are currently directed towards that."

Mirabai elaborated on the sacrifices she makes: "We don’t really get to enjoy traveling. While I do go out occasionally, I can’t truly enjoy it with my family as much as I'd like because we have to return to training. Having already invested so much time, we must consider recovery and maintenance... these thoughts are always present. I constantly wonder: When should I restart training? Will I be able to perform at my previous level?"

"So honestly, we're always thinking about training—even while eating! We consider: If I eat this, what will be the effect? Will I gain fat? Will my weight increase? Consequently, we can’t even eat what we crave."

She further confessed, "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.’"

Beyond her Olympic silver medal, Mirabai boasts an impressive collection of accolades, including a gold and silver at the World Championships, two golds and a silver at the Commonwealth Games, and a bronze at the Asian Championships.