‘I take care not to pick up an injury during my training’- Mirabai Chanu sheds light on her preparation ahead of Paris Olympics 2024
Indian weightlifter, Mirabai Chanu is India’s biggest hope of earning a medal in weightlifting at the Paris Olympics 2024. She bagged a silver medal at Tokyo 2020 and is keen to add another feather to her cap.
Ahead of the mega competition, Mirabai asserted that she takes care of herself so that she doesn't pick up any injury. From her diet plan to her strength training regime, the Indian weightlifter is making sure she remains fully prepared for the big challenge.
“I take care not to pick up an injury during my training. I am careful about my technique, strength (training) and diet. What I eat and recovery are important. What exercises I do and which muscles I focus on are also important,” said Mirabai during an interaction facilitated by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) on Thursday.
“Now I am lifting 80 to 85 per cent (of what I am capable of). There is a month left for the Games, I will increase my load gradually.”
The Asian Games 2022 debacle has been a frustrating one for Mirabai Chanu. Her rehab following the injury at the Games continued for five long months. The 29-year-old made her comeback in the IWF World Cup in Phuket, lifting 184kg successfully.
‘I have faced a lot in the last three years due to injuries’- Mirabai Chanu
Mirabai Chanu will leave for Paris on July 7 to kick start her preparations ahead of the Games. She is aware of the tough competition but is keen to bring India glory once more.
“I have faced a lot in the last three years due to injuries. The competitors have changed. I wonder whether I can medal again. But if I give my 100 per cent, then I can get a medal for the country."
Mirabai Chanu also thanked SAI and the Indian Weightlifting Federation for their invaluable support throughout the journey and for giving her the freedom to train in Paris.
“I am privileged to get an opportunity to train in Paris ahead of the Olympics. I thank the SAI and the Indian Weightlifting Federation for their support.”
Speaking on the association with her coach, Mirabai Chanu said:
“I discuss everything with Vijay sir. He treats me like his daughter. My life changed after getting associated with him in 2014.”