Ilya Ilyin

My main goal is to become the most successful weightlifter in history.

The Olympics have their own unique atmosphere and energy. People might say it's just the same as any other competition, but don't kid yourself. There's a hunger for victory.

I do believe food plays an important role in preparation for the Olympics or any competition.

If you have less weight, you have less strength.

A weightlifter should be able to do everything and borrow things from other sports to beat competitors.

I love my life. I love my work. I love my training. It's all due to my love for life, my love for people. I'm very happy to be alive.

I move around, like a true Kazakh nomad.

By nature, I was a little guy with big legs - a stocky lad.

I've started spending more of my time studying, trying to improve my IQ by reading and writing. I've missed out on a lot in life. I don't regret this, of course. Nevertheless, I need to make up for lost time.