In December, Arshia Goswami made it to the India Book of Records

“I enjoy weightlifting, it makes me feel stronger,” Arshia tells mid-day over a Zoom call, adding, “I want to be like Mirabai Chanu and get a gold medal for India.” While lifting weights is getting her attention online, Arshia enjoys Taekwondo just as much and has won five medals at inter school competitions. After wrapping up school by 1.30 pm, the Class II student trains for two-and-a-half hours at a gym and for an hour in Taekwondo, every day.

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Does she ever complain of a hectic schedule? “No,” says her father, “in fact, there are days when I am tied up and tell her to take a break, but she refuses,” says Avnish. “Currently, she ranks at number two in the whole world, right after Rory van Ulft [two-time USA Weightlifting Youth National champion in the 30 kg weight class].”

Parents, at large, are typically against young children going to the gym; weightlifting, even more so. “They worry it might stunt growth or cause injuries. While the former doesn’t have any proof since it is all dependent on genetics, a child can be injured while playing any sport—be it cricket or football. Thankfully, weightlifting, under the supervision of a fitness trainer, does not cause injuries,” says Avnish, admitting that he receives a fair amount of criticism from other parents.

“I ask them if it is okay to allow children to play games or watch videos on their phone all the time. At least mine is physically active,” he retorts. As of now, Arshia is four feet, three inches tall.

Avnish is quick to add that he gets as many positive observations and praise for his daughter. “American physiotherapist Aaron Horschig, who trained Mirabai Chanu for the Tokyo Olympics, shared a video of Arshia,” he says. Many parents reach out to him to ask whether their children can also lift weights and for dietary advice. The answer to the last question, he says, is to eat a healthy protein-rich diet.

“Arshia eats home-cooked meals, with a focus on protein in the form of pulses, beans, paneer, boiled eggs and ghee. She doesn’t eat junk food and chocolates.” Does she mind that? “No. She never had a taste for chocolate. Even when a relative visits with chocolates, they keep lying in the refrigerator,” he says.