Stories
Smriti Mandhana Recalls Five Years of Gruelling 5 AM Training

- •Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana shared details of her rigorous training routine that began at 5 AM for five consecutive years during her formative years.
- •Her strict morning regimen included 12 Surya Namaskars followed by intense bodyweight exercises like squat jumps, burpees, and mountain climbers.
- •The fitness drills were followed by stationary shadow batting, lasting until 7:30 or 8 AM every day under the guidance of her strict mentor, Amrita.
- •Her mentor also encouraged her to study cricket closely, analyze field placements, and watch Test matches to develop tactical understanding and leadership skills.
- •Mandhana credited this consistent, structured practice and early discipline for building the foundation of her successful international cricket career.
Key Questions Answered
Smriti Mandhana's strict morning schedule began at 5 am with 12 Surya Namaskars followed by five sets of 30 seconds each of squat jumps, burpees, and mountain climbers. Afterward, she engaged in stationary shadow batting until around 7:30 or 8 am, a routine she maintained diligently for five years under her mentor Amrita.
Her mentor encouraged her to observe the game closely, study field placements, watch Test matches, take notes, and analyze tactical decisions, which helped her build cricketing knowledge and leadership understanding.
At 13, Mandhana used manifestation practices introduced by her coach, including writing down affirmations and using a blank cheque to visualize buying a house for her parents, an ambition she achieved at age 18.



