Mirabai Chanu Reveals Constant Pressure of Training and Weight, Even During Family Time

Mirabai Chanu: Training and Weight Remain Constant Concerns, Even During Family Time

India's celebrated weightlifter, Mirabai Chanu, has revealed the persistent pressures of training and weight management that occupy her thoughts, even when she's 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 time to rest, especially after events like the Asian Games or Olympics. I took some rest too, but then got right back into training. Spending time with family is very important, especially after dedicating so much time to training; it’s necessary to relax a little," Chanu shared on Game On, a podcast series.

"That part was good, but now it's time to face training again. Up next is the Commonwealth Championships, which will also serve as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. So, our full focus is on that, and all our preparations are currently geared toward it."

Chanu further elaborated on the sacrifices involved in pursuing her athletic goals. "We don’t really get to enjoy traveling. I do go out sometimes, but I can’t really enjoy myself 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 discipline extends to her diet as well. "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 confessed her love for junk food but emphasized 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 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.