Not Just Muscle, But Mind: Seema Reveals the Secret Behind Her Commonwealth Games Bronze

Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Seema Kaliramna believes success begins long before an athlete steps into the competition arena. For the 27-year-old discus thrower, the biggest difference-maker has not only been physical training but also the power of the mind, backed by her doctoral research on imagery and positive self-talk.

Currently pursuing a PhD at Chaudhary Bansi Lal University in Bhiwani, Haryana, Seema said her research has become an integral part of her preparation. Instead of limiting the concepts to academics, she applies them every day to improve focus, control emotions under pressure, enhance recovery and understand the biomechanics of performance.

Her approach paid off at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where she secured the bronze medal with a throw of 58.65 metres, completing a remarkable turnaround after narrowly missing the podium at the 2025 Asian Championships by just 16 centimetres.

Seema admitted that the disappointment of returning home empty-handed last year stayed with her. Watching fellow athletes celebrate with their families after winning medals became a powerful source of motivation, pushing her to refine every aspect of her preparation.

The Glasgow competition, however, was far from easy. Cold temperatures and strong headwinds repeatedly affected her grip on the discus, forcing her to warm up continuously as her body struggled to stay competition-ready. Despite the challenging conditions, Seema viewed the experience as valuable preparation for future international events, particularly the Asian Games in Japan, which begin on September 19.

Her coach and husband, Ravinder Kaliramna, believes the harsh weather prevented an even better performance, saying the conditions made it difficult to achieve the ideal grip and release. The duo now plans to incorporate specialised preparation and equipment to handle similar weather in future competitions.

Although Seema received a grand welcome from family members and supporters upon returning home, complete with garlands and traditional celebrations, she has little time to celebrate. With less than a month remaining before the Asian Games, she says her entire focus is now on improving further and turning her Commonwealth Games success into an even bigger achievement on the continental stage.