Pragyan Prasanti Sahu Eyes Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in Tianjin
India's third fastest woman hurdler, Pragyan Prasanti Sahu, is brimming with anticipation as she prepares to compete at the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in Tianjin, China, scheduled from February 6 to 8. This event holds dual significance for the athlete, marking not only her first international competition outside India but also her inaugural indoor meet. On the final day, Pragyan will showcase her skills in the 60m hurdles, a discipline that demands precision and speed.
Technical Adjustments and Training Regimen
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Pragyan has been diligently training under coach James Hillier in Mumbai over the past few months. Her primary focus has been on refining her technique, particularly reducing the number of strides before the first hurdle. Speaking to TOI from Bhubaneswar, where she trained alongside other Indian athletes at the Indoor Athletics track, Pragyan explained, "Eight strides is common to attack the first hurdle, and I was doing that for the last three years. However, I was getting too close to the first hurdle, leading to prolonged airtime that hindered my speed and acceleration."
To address this, Pragyan has transitioned to seven strides, a change that necessitated several adjustments. "I have had to change the starting leg and stride pattern, increase speed, and apply more force to achieve the right rhythm," she noted. This modification has enabled her to attain maximum speed midway through the run rather than towards the end, enhancing her overall performance. Additionally, she has concentrated on minimizing the airtime of her 'trail leg'—the foot that follows over the hurdle—ensuring a smoother and faster clearance.
Overcoming Injuries and Building Strength
Beyond technical refinements, Pragyan has prioritized strength training, recognizing its importance in her athletic journey. "I have improved my strength significantly and am far better than last year," she shared. "While it might not always seem crucial, injuries remind you of the vital role strength plays in recovery and performance." Pragyan's perspective is shaped by personal experience, as she has faced setbacks including a hip flexor tear in her right leg and a fractured back during lockdown gym sessions in her hometown.
Despite these hurdles, Pragyan enjoyed a successful year in 2023, clinching the 100m hurdles title at the Indian Open World Athletics Bronze Level Continental Tour in Bhubaneswar and excelling in national meets. Her resilience and dedication have fueled her ambitions for the upcoming Asian Games later this year, where she aims to secure a podium finish. With a personal best of 13.15 seconds and a bronze medal-winning time of 13.04 at the previous Asiad, this goal, though ambitious, is within reach for the determined athlete from Balasore.
Looking Ahead to Future Competitions
As Pragyan Prasanti Sahu sets her sights on the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships, she remains focused on continuous improvement and strategic preparation. Her journey underscores the blend of technical expertise, physical strength, and mental fortitude required in elite athletics. Fans and supporters eagerly await her performance in Tianjin, hopeful that her efforts will translate into success on the international stage.
