New Delhi – Seema Kaliramna, the bronze medalist in discus throw at the Commonwealth Games, reveals that her doctoral research focusing on imagery and positive self-talk has given her a unique edge in competitions. This mental and physical preparation has been crucial as she now sets her sights on next month’s Asian Games.
Event Context
Seema, a 27-year-old Ph.D. candidate at Chaudhary Bansi Lal University in Bhiwani, Haryana, has integrated her academic research into her athletic training. “I tailor my mindset and training to maintain calm during competitions, adjust my intensity, enhance muscle recovery, and understand biomechanics. My Ph.D. research focuses on these elements, yielding positive outcomes,” she shared.
Her impressive bronze medal performance at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, where she achieved a throw of 58.65 meters, marked a significant comeback after narrowly missing out on a medal at the 2025 Asian Championships, finishing fourth by a mere 16 centimeters.
Reflecting on her past experience, Seema noted, “In 2025, I returned without a medal while others celebrated with their families. Losing by just 16 centimeters on my last throw haunted me.” This time, however, she used that experience to her advantage, preparing her body effectively and executing a thorough warm-up, which proved beneficial in securing a medal.
Despite the challenging windy and cold conditions in Glasgow, Seema found the competition rewarding, providing her with crucial insights as she looks ahead to the Asian Games in Japan, beginning September 19. “With only a month left before the Asian Games, there’s no room for rest. My complete focus is now on that event,” she concluded.
Player Focus
“I am studying how imagery and positive self-talk influence athletic performance. This topic is closely related to my own sport, so I personally implement these techniques,” Seema shared with PTI upon her return from Glasgow.
Match Outlook
The weather conditions were vastly different from what I experienced in India. I found myself needing to continuously warm up, yet my body still felt cold. The wind was blowing directly against us, making it difficult to maintain a grip on the discus. Despite these challenges, it was a valuable learning experience, as we may encounter similar circumstances in the future.
Ravinder Kaliramna, Seema’s coach and husband, mentioned that with better weather, the outcome could have been different.
‘It wasn’t about technique. The cold impacted her ability to grip the discus properly. We now understand what equipment and preparations will be necessary for future competitions in similar environments,’ he stated.
Although Seema received a heartfelt welcome at the airport from her family and supporters, adorned with garlands and accompanied by drums, she noted that any celebrations would need to be postponed.
