Mirabai Chanu: Weightlifting Demands Constant Mental Focus, Even During Family Time

Mirabai Chanu, India’s celebrated weightlifter, reveals the relentless mental demands of her sport, where thoughts of training and weight control persist even during family time. 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 featured on the Game On podcast.

"We do get some rest, particularly after major events like the Asian Games or Olympics. I took some time off too, but then got right back into training. Spending time with family is crucial, especially after dedicating so much time to training – it’s important to unwind a bit," Mirabai shared on the "Game On" podcast.

"That aspect was enjoyable, but now it's time to get back to training. The Commonwealth Championships are next, which also serve as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. Our entire focus is directed towards that, and all our preparations are currently centered around it."

The life of a high-performance athlete involves sacrifices. “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 dedication extends even to meal times. "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."

The allure of favorite treats is a constant battle. "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 record includes not only an Olympic silver medal but also 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.