## **Sports: A Lifestyle Choice, Not Just Results – Insights from Sajan Prakash**
In the world of competitive swimming, achieving excellence demands more than just talent; it requires a dedicated lifestyle. **Sajan Prakash**, a 31-year-old Olympian and multiple-time gold medallist, knows this firsthand. As he gears up for the upcoming Asian Championships and the Asian Games next year, he reflects on his journey, the challenges he faces, and his vision for swimming in India.
### **A Comeback Journey**
From contemplating retirement to making a strategic comeback, Sajan’s story is both inspiring and relatable. After his Olympic qualification, he decided to take a break that lasted six long months. “**I was at a crossroads, contemplating my future in swimming**,” he shared in an interview with *The Hindu*. From limited training sessions to unexpected travel, his path was riddled with challenges, yet he pushed through.
With renewed determination, he resumed training at the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS) in Vijayanagar and prepared for competitions that lay ahead. “I am eyeing the **World Police Games** and then the **World Championships** in Singapore, followed by the Asian Championships in Ahmedabad,” Sajan proudly stated. His goals are as ambitious as they are clear.
### **Looking Ahead: Short-term Goals and Long-term Ambitions**
#### **Focus on the Asian Championships**
While many athletes fixate on distant milestones, Sajan emphasizes the importance of **short-term targets**. “The **Asian Championships** are my immediate focus. This competition will help me gauge where I stand for the **Asian Games** next year,” he explained.
His primary event? The **200m butterfly**. “I’ve competed in this category since 2012. To achieve a medal, I aim for a time of **1:55 seconds**,” he asserted with conviction.
#### **A Sustainable Approach**
Sajan believes in enjoying the journey rather than getting overwhelmed by the result. “**Sports should be a lifestyle choice**, not merely a result-oriented model. It’s a process of self-discovery and personal growth,” he remarked, reflecting on his long journey in swimming.
### **Facing the Challenges Head-On**
#### **Injury and Funding Issues**
With experience comes the toll of injuries, particularly in a sport as demanding as swimming. “We lack a **long-term athlete development program** here in India, which is critical for our growth,” he shared. Sajan identified funding as another significant hurdle, noting that many athletes often rely on personal savings or sporadic corporate sponsorships for training and competition expenses.
“**Swimming may seem inexpensive**, but the reality is starkly different. The costs of good gear, nutrition, and training can accumulate quickly,” he emphasized. His own career has seen ups and downs, originating from grassroots support from family, which eventually paved the way for professional opportunities.
### **The Future of Indian Swimming**
#### **Building a Strong Foundation**
Sajan expresses optimism about the **future of swimming in India**, especially with the upcoming hosting of the Asian Championships. “Having major competitions at home gives us a competitive edge. It fosters seriousness and commitment, both from athletes and governing bodies,” he noted.
But he wasn’t shy in calling for more efforts. “To compete globally, we need robust **coaching development programs**, better infrastructure, and **consistency** in training. National training centers where athletes can share and develop together are crucial.”
#### **Nurturing Talent**
Sajan recognizes the talent pool in India but stresses the need for specialization. “We need to address each athlete’s unique strengths and weaknesses. This individualized approach will yield better results,” he affirmed.
### **Revolutionizing the Coaching Landscape**
Through personal experiences, Sajan appreciates the hard work of Indian coaches but stresses the importance of adapting to modern scientific methods. “We cannot mirror other countries’ strategies without consideration of our unique challenges. Our coaches need ongoing education and support to not only meet domestic standards but to compete internationally,” he said.
### **Conclusion: Embracing Sports as a Lifestyle**
In wrapping up the conversation, Sajan Prakash left us with a powerful message: **“Sports must transcend the quest for medals; it should embody a lifestyle — a commitment to health, discipline, and passion.”**
His journey is a testament to the essence of sports — it’s not merely about the accolades but about embracing the journey. Through dedication, community support, and a focus on personal growth, athletes like Sajan are reshaping the narrative around competitive sports in India.
**Explore More**: Interested in the future of sports in India? Check out insights on [Athlete Development Programs](https://www.sportdev.org/) and the impact of [Nutrition in Athletic Performance](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5670525/) for more information.
