Manika Batra opens up about grit, nutrition & giving back on Herbalife's podcast 'Live Your Best Life, Unscripted'
In a world where sports often focus on medals and podium finishes, India's table tennis star Manika Batra brings the spotlight back to what really counts, discipline, consistency, and a mindset built for resilience.
In the latest episode of Live Your Best Life, Unscripted, Herbalife India's podcast series hosted by Ajay Khanna, Managing Director of Herbalife India, Manika talks about how sport has shaped her not just as an athlete, but as a person.
Titled 'Personal Growth Through Sports: Life Lessons from Table Tennis,' the episode is a refreshingly honest conversation with the Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Paris 2024 Olympian, who became the first Indian woman to reach the round of 16 in singles at the Olympics.
'Sports has been my biggest teacher,' says Manika. 'It's taught me to be disciplined, stay positive, and push through even on the hardest days.'
The episode goes beyond wins and records. Manika opens up about overcoming injuries, handling pressure, and finding strength through mental training and breathing exercises. She talks about how setbacks, whether it's a lost match or self-doubt, have pushed her to grow, adapt, and come back stronger.
Nutrition also plays a key role in the conversation. As a Delhi native with a fondness for chole bhature, Manika explains how she balances her cravings with the demands of high-performance sport. She also shares her belief in clean supplementation and how Herbalife products have helped her stay fuelled during packed travel schedules and rigorous training.
'Nutrition and supplements are non-negotiable for me,' she adds. 'I trust what I use, especially when I'm competing or recovering.'
The episode strikes a balance between inspiration and practical takeaways. From the importance of mental strength in close matches to her dream of launching a training academy for young paddlers, Manika's message is clear: success isn't just about talent, it's about mindset, routine, and giving back to the community.
Host Ajay Khanna reflects on the conversation:
'Manika's story is about more than just sports. It's about belief, focus, and the ability to inspire others through action. Her journey perfectly captures what this podcast is about, real stories that encourage us to be better every day.'
The episode ends on a fun note with a rapid-fire round, revealing Manika's favorite cheat meal, playlist preferences, and even a fan DM asking her to teach a dog table tennis.
Watch the Full Episode
Also streaming on:
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Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) is a premier health and wellness company, community and platform that has been changing people's lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed food products to consumers in more than 90 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle to live their best life.
Live Your Best Life, Unscripted is Herbalife India's wellness-focused podcast series that features candid conversations with athletes, doctors, and changemakers, all sharing insights on living healthier, stronger, and more purposeful lives.
More stories. More impact. One episode at a time.
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