Mirabai Chanu eyes Asian Games gold after CWG triumph

The Cliff News | 26 August 2026

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu is setting her sights on the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, aiming to clinch a gold medal that has eluded her in two previous appearances. Following her recent success at the Commonwealth Games, the 32-year-old Olympian has intensified her training regime, underscoring the significance of staying injury-free as she prepares for the September 19-October 4 event.

Chanu's determination is palpable, as she has postponed her return to her home in Manipur to remain in Modinagar for rigorous training. Even while in Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games, she proactively sought out gym facilities to maintain her conditioning after the competition venue was dismantled. This unwavering commitment highlights her singular focus on achieving her Asian Games aspirations.

Focus on Fitness and Preparation

Mirabai Chanu emphasized that her current preparations are heavily centered on maintaining peak physical condition. Past injuries significantly hampered her campaigns at the Jakarta Asian Games in 2018 and the Hangzhou Games in 2023, making fitness a paramount concern for this year's competition.

“The real test lies ahead,” Mirabai told SAI Media after winning her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold in Glasgow.

Her dedication to her craft is further evident in her decision to forgo immediate celebrations. Upon securing her latest Commonwealth Games gold, Chanu did not head home but immediately resumed her training in Modinagar. This proactive approach demonstrates her strategic planning and dedication to peaking at the right time for the Asian Games.

Challenging Road Ahead

The weightlifter has expressed that the Asian Games will present a considerably tougher challenge compared to her recent Commonwealth Games performance. In Glasgow, she comfortably secured the 48 kg title with a total lift of 190 kg, setting new Games records in the snatch, clean and jerk, and overall total categories. She noted that the competition in the Commonwealth Games did not demand her maximum effort.

“To be honest, the competition in the Commonwealth Games was not tough for me. I did not have to put in a lot of effort at Glasgow. The real test lies ahead,” she said.

Mirabai Chanu anticipates facing formidable competition from the top weightlifters across Asia, particularly from countries like China, North Korea, Japan, and Thailand. Her past encounters, such as being narrowly edged by Surodchana Khambao of Thailand by just one kilogram at the Paris Olympics, underscore the high level of competition she expects.

Coaching and Support

Her preparations are being meticulously managed under the expert guidance of coach Vijay Sharma and strength and conditioning specialist Dr Aaron Horschig. Chanu has been working with this duo since November 2020, benefiting from their collaborative approach which includes weekly video calls to review training, recovery protocols, and overall fitness levels.