Q: What do you do and how long have you been doing that?
A: I have been doing Police Judo for 4 years and currently hold a green belt in Judo. I just started my co-op work term at Le Physique as a Client Care Manager and Cardio Trainer.
Q: What inspired you to do what you do?
A: I have been an athletic person all my life. I did synchronized swimming for 11 years at the competitive level in Russia before I decided to come to Canada. Moving to Canada was a big step and a new chapter of my life so I decided to find a new sport that I can enjoy as much as I enjoyed synchronized swimming. Surprisingly, Judo turned out to a great match!
Q: What are your favourite things about fitness?
A: I like the fact that fitness and physical activity not only improve your physical capabilities but also help to melt away stress and boost energy!
Q: Outside of work, where can people most often find you?
A: Swimming pool or my kitchen (likely to be baking!)
Q: What is your favourite hobby?
A: Baking! Baking! Baking! And playing guitar.
Q: What’s your favourite music?
A: I don’t have a favourite genre. I can listen to anything from classic/instrumental to country or house music. Usually, my mood dictates me what music to listen.
Q: What’s your favourite exercises?
A: Plank Hip Dips and Sumo Squad Jumps.
Q: What are 3 things people don’t know about you?
1. Although I am from Russia (Republic of Tatarstan), my nationality is Tatar. Hence, along with Russian, I also speak local Tatar language.
2. I have 3 Siberian Huskies.
3. I can hold my breath underwater for 2 minutes 18 seconds (outcome of being a synchronized swimmer).
Q: What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A: I always wanted to be a heart surgeon.
Q: What’s your spirit animal?
A: A lion! My last name is ARSLANova. In my national Tatar language, Arslan means the “lion”.
Q: Tell us your favourite TV show!
A: Suits.
Q: If you could be on any reality TV show what would it be?
A: Fort Boyard.
Q: Who is your celebrity crush?
A: Chris Hemsworth.
Q: What’s your guilty pleasure?
A: Fries.
