I try not to eat anything which is too fat, and I can’t eat anything which is too sweet. – Ilya Ilyin
A weightlifter should be able to do everything and borrow things from other sports to beat competitors. – Ilya Ilyin
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. – Ilya Ilyin
I do believe food plays an important role in preparation for the Olympics or any competition. – Ilya Ilyin
It is not easy for me to digest meat. I waste too much energy in digesting meat, and that’s why I get my proteins from other products. I like beans and other legume plants very much. I need a lot of ‘live’ products such as fruit and vegetables. – Ilya Ilyin
Chicken and horse meat are the best foods for weightlifters, and good food is important. – Ilya Ilyin
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. – Ilya Ilyin
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. – Ilya Ilyin