Grit, perseverance and tenacity – these are just some of the winning qualities that make this champion Olympian the legend that he is. As someone who hails from a small village in Haryana and went on to become a 2-time Olympic medalist and a world champion, Neeraj Chopra’s rise to the top is undoubtedly inspirational. The javelin star wowed spectators in Bengaluru when he recently won the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 – a World Athletics Gold-level event with a throw of 86.18 meters leading him to victory. Prior to that, the star athlete created a much-awaited record when he broke the 90 meter barrier in the Doha Diamond League. During his visit to Bengaluru, Neeraj stopped by the Under Armour store where he interacted with the running community and fitness enthusiasts in the city. In a brief chat with us, the trailblazer opened up about his fitness routine, mental focus and more…

1. Tell us about your fitness routine.
There are competitions going on right now, so the training is less and there’s more focus on recovery. When I’m training, things gets tough. I train twice a day for a period of 7 to 8 hours. I try to up my protein intake during that time. I hydrate myself well with juices or coconut water. During competitions, I consume more carbs.

2. How do you maintain your mental focus during competitions?
I train consistently. When I’m competing, I need to give my best. Sometimes, my body is feeling good and sometimes, it’s not, but I try to give my best.

3. How do you deal with tough times?
I work on whatever is in my control and work hard towards my goals. As for things that are not in my control, I wait and watch to see how things turn out.

4. You recently crossed the 90 m mark at the Doha Diamond League.
Yes, it was a very good feeling to do so. Everyone was waiting and hoping for it to happen and I’m happy that it happened.

5. What do you think are the qualities required to make a good athlete?
I think it’s important to be disciplined. Consistency is also key.
One needs to keep their mindset strong.

6. How do you keep your mindset strong?
I believe that if training goes well and you are able to achieve the target that you set for yourself beforehand, whilst also pushing your limits, it significantly contributes to developing and strengthening an athlete’s mindset.

6. How important is diet to you?
Diet is important. It’s important to eat good food. I hail from a village and I’m a desi at heart, so I am not so obsessed with having a strict diet. But I do put in an effort to maintain a good diet. However, you won’t see me measuring the amount of food I’m eating and being very particular about it.

6. What message do you have for young athletes?
Whatever work you do, do it with utmost passion. Put in your hundred percent and be happy with what you’re doing. You need to like what you’re doing to be able to enjoy it.