Anju Bobby George reflects on the time she realised she has only one kidney: ‘It taught me power of mental strength’

Life has come full circle for Anju Bobby George, the Olympian long jumper who put Indian athletics on the world map. Describing her journey as “incredible,” the athlete says her achievements continue to motivate her. In an exclusive interaction with indianexpress.com, the chairperson of the Anju Bobby Sports Foundation opens up about her journey, the need to make sports empowering for women, the challenges of being a woman athlete in India, why mental health matters, and how she keeps herself fit. Read the edited excerpts below:

Q: You were the first Indian to win a medal in long jump at the 2003 World Athletics Championship. It’s been over two decades since then; how has your journey been?

Anju Bobby George: My journey has been incredible. It has come full circle – from competing at the World Championships to coaching athletes for the same stage. Being the first Indian to win a World Athletics Championship medal continues to be a source of pride and motivation for me.

Sports––the lessons, challenges, and triumphs––have shaped who I am. Now, as a coach, I pass on those experiences, preparing young athletes for the pressures of competition. Watching them succeed is immensely rewarding.

Q: How do you feel the world of sports can be made more inclusive and empowering for women?

Anju Bobby George: For this, it’s essential to address parental concerns about their childrens’ stable future should they venture into sports. Earlier, parents, particularly from remote areas, were hesitant, but now, that perspective is evolving, with children from even the most remote villages pursuing sports, courtesy of government schemes and private academies like ours.

Our women athletes are achieving remarkable success, winning Olympic and World Championship medals. Their achievements are widely being recognised and celebrated, and it shows how sports can offer more than just medals; they also provide jobs and other opportunities.

 

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Q: Mental health has become a prominent topic in sports, too, with many players taking a break to prioritise it. How were things vis-a-vis mental well-being when you were an active athlete?

Anju Bobby George: Mental health is key to success in both sports and life. I learned this in 2003 when, during a grueling competition schedule, I discovered I had only one kidney. Despite being advised by a doctor to withdraw from the World Championships, my husband and coach, Robert Bobby George, suggested we take a break and explore Europe as tourists, and encouraged me to watch the championships. He was mentally preparing me for competition and it worked. I found myself on the podium just 20 days later. This experience taught me that everything starts in the mind. Believing in ourselves enables our bodies to achieve incredible feats.

We didn’t fully understand mental health in the past. Today’s youth have access to a wealth of information, which has benefits and drawbacks. We must prioritise mental health; it is of the utmost importance. When mental health is stable, performance in any field improves.

Q: How can athletes stay calm during critical tournaments?

Anju Bobby George: To stay calm, athletes need to focus on mental strength as much as physical preparation. A strong mind can make all the difference. It’s essential to trust your training and believe in your abilities. Athletes should absorb the positivity around them and learn to avoid negativity. Finally, they must embrace the moment and treat the tournament like any other day.

Sports – the lessons, challenges, and triumphs – have shaped who I am, says Anju Bobby George. (Photo: Express Archive)

Q: What are the rigorous weight loss methods or techniques must athletes adopt before a tournament?

Anju Bobby George: Here are a few ways:

Hydration management: Monitoring water intake is critical to prevent dehydration, especially during intense training sessions.

Staggered training sessions: Adjusting training regimens to include staggered sessions allows for adequate recovery time and reduces fatigue risk.

Balanced nutrition: Focusing on a balanced diet with lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats supports muscle development and overall health.

Gradual weight loss: Aiming for a moderate calorie deficit (300-500 calories per day) promotes healthy weight loss without compromising performance.

Pain management: Finding effective methods for managing discomfort without relying on strong painkillers is vital for maintaining focus and training intensity.

Q: In what ways were things different when you were an athlete compared to today?

Anju Bobby George: In the past, Indian athletes faced many challenges – lack of support, infrastructure, and awareness about sports. When I competed in the World Championships, no one expected an Indian to win a medal. Training in the United States of America was tough, when people doubted Indian athletes’ ability to perform well in major events.

Our training involved morning and evening sessions, but nutrition was poorly managed—we ate whatever was available. Today, however, athletes are provided with a scientific, well-planned approach to training and nutrition.

Support from private companies has also improved much. Anandana–The Coca-Cola India Foundation, for instance, has been a key supporter of the Anju Bobby Sports Foundation. Their substantial contributions have equipped our academy with essential amenities and advanced training equipment, including sophisticated water harvesting systems and state-of-the-art gym facilities.

 

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Q: Today, you coach and inspire young women athletes. In all these years, what do you reckon to be the most challenging thing about being a woman athlete in India or globally?

Anju Bobby George: Managing periods has long been a major challenge for women athletes in India and globally, affecting training and competitions. In the past, limited knowledge and resources led to a lack of understanding and support, making it difficult to perform at our best during crucial times.

Today, increased awareness and better support have improved the situation. With access to better information, advanced methods, and supportive environments, women athletes can manage this issue more effectively.

Q: How do you maintain your fitness levels today? What does your exercise and diet routine look like?

Anju Bobby George: I incorporated yoga and meditation into my daily routine. It helps me stay balanced physically and mentally. I also train two to three times a week to keep myself in shape. As a coach and a mother, I need to stay fit and healthy, not just for my well-being but also to set a positive example for my children and the athletes I mentor.

Q: What do you miss the most about being an active athlete today?

Anju Bobby George: The adrenaline rush of competing at the highest level, of course. There’s nothing quite like the excitement.

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