If you’re reading this, you’re probably trying to learn more about me.  That being the case, the first thing you should know is that I thoroughly dislike talking (or writing) about myself.  I would much rather listen—about your goals, accomplishments, dreams...just so I can then figure out a way to help you reach them.  In case you really do want a glimpse into my past, here’s just a little background info for you...

I was born in 1982, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan (Central Asia).  My childhood was mostly spent living with my grandparents, on a farm in one of Ukraine’s smallest towns, Slaviansk.  I was a typical farm girl—spent all of my free time taking care of the farm’s animals, watering the gardens, gathering fruit...and, when the time allowed, climbing trees and playing soccer with the neighborhood boys.

My family moved around quite a bit, and when I turned 14, my parents immigrated to the US in hopes of providing a better life for me.  We arrived in Queens, NY, with nothing but a couple of suitcases per person, and a few hundred dollars to pay the first month’s rent. 

The experiences we’d gone through living in our first apartment are ones I will never forget.  We lived in a small apartment with mice roaming all around; staring back at us as if we were invading their property.  Though we had nothing at the time (not even any furniture for quite a while), we still managed to get robbed; the jewelry that my mom had brought with us was taken.

I didn’t speak any English, so the first few months of school were rough.  I was teased and bullied beyond belief—teenagers can most definitely be cruel!  Though my English improved relatively quickly, math and the sciences remained as my favorite subjects.  I also loved art...drawing with charcoal has always been one of my favorite pastimes.

As the years went by, I remained a tomboy.  My high school gym class was comprised of the football team, performing actual powerlifting training routines; I was the only girl in the room, aiming to bench and squat as much weight as the guys twice my size were able to!

I did well in school, graduating two years early with honors and a full scholarship from Hofstra University in NY.  I continued my education there, majoring in Computer Engineering purely for my love of physics and mathematical concepts.

After I got married, my husband and I moved to Miami, FL, and began to train together.  At this point, I truly felt right at home among the iron.  It didn’t feel intimidating in the least, and became my sanctuary—everything felt right with the world when I was there!  Seeing my body get stronger grew on me...and I never left the gym since.

I always loved being active and working out, but never thought of competing until after our move to Austin, TX.  When I started to train at Austin gyms, I was constantly asked whether I compete!

The single comment that truly pushed me to finally consider stepping on stage, came from one of my idols in the fitness/figure world, Adela Garcia.  We were by the cash register at a supplement store, paying for our purchases; she looked at me, and asked me when my next show is...

My life hasn’t been the same since...

Competing in figure is an absolute blast, and something I intend on doing for a very, very long time.  Unfortunately, it isn’t lucrative in any way and isn’t a career by any means—more of just a VERY expensive hobby.  And a definitely a way of life. 

Currently, I live in beautiful Southern California and work as a personal trainer, helping people transform their lives and bodies.  I adore seeing my clients’ excitement as their bodies change; knowing that I had something to do with bringing such happiness to them is why I love my job—and the fitness industry.

In addition to training, I’m a writer for T-Nation.com and MuscleWithAttitude.com, and am exclusively sponsored by Biotest.  I’m proud to represent them as I personally use all of their products with incredible results.  Finally—products that don’t just say they’re on the cutting-edge, but act like it!

And that, my friends, is the highly summarized story of my life.  I’ve gone through more experiences than I can possibly put on this page, each of them teaching me something new about life, and who I am as a person.  If there’s anything you would like to know about me, please feel free to contact me and ask; I’d love to talk to you!