Mirabai Chanu: Weightlifting's Mental Toll – Training, Diet Always on Her Mind, Even During Family Time

Mirabai Chanu, India's celebrated weightlifter, reveals the relentless mental demands of her sport. Even during moments spent with family, the pressures of training and weight management are ever-present. The silver medalist in the 49kg category at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics is currently focused on preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships.

Mirabai Chanu discusses the mental challenges of weightlifting.

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

She continued, "That aspect was beneficial, but now it's time to refocus on training. The Commonwealth Championships are next, and they also serve as a qualifier for the Commonwealth Games. So, we are completely focused on that, and all our preparations are currently directed towards achieving success there."

Mirabai highlighted 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 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 in it, so we must consider how to recover, how to maintain ourselves... these thoughts are always on my mind. I constantly wonder: when should I resume training? Will I be able to perform at my previous level?"

The mental burden 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."

Mirabai confessed her love for junk food, particularly pizza, but acknowledges 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,’" she explained.

Mirabai Chanu's impressive list of accomplishments includes:

• Olympic silver medal
• Gold and silver medals at the World Championships
• Two golds and a silver at the Commonwealth Games
• A bronze at the Asian Championships.