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Organised by Ameeraga Tamil Sangam, the event had participants from across the UAE
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Fit and fab: Inspiration to kickstart your health regime
Looking for a reason to get off your butt? Our fitness instructors of the week will give you many.
Personal Trainer at Volt Fitness
I'm 26 years old from Ukraine, and I'm a gym and sports addict. I used to play in the basketball and soccer team at school and university, and used to be very skinny (around 48/49 kg). In 2012, I saw a video of a fitness bikini show; the ladies on stage had beautiful bodies and muscles that left me intrigued and inspired. I wanted to look like them. At the time, it seemed impossible, but after seeing the transformation of one of the contenders, I'd decided to make a change.
I started training with a coach three times a week. The hour-long distance of the gym from my house did not stop me. Every day I would tell myself that I have to suffer now to get what I want. It's been seven years since and I continue to train at the gym non-stop.
Workout sessions: I train almost every day, sometimes even without days off. But usually, it's six times a week.
Favourite type: Squats, because you activate several muscle groups, and it increases strength and power.
On cheat days, I. go for pizza, burger or cheesecake. But I have a cheat meal only once a week! I have it before afternoon, so I have the rest of the day to actively burn it.
Gym wear: I like Nike, Puma and Firm Abs Fitness.
What fuels you? My progress and the way my body changes inspires me. Also, people around me who can see it as well. It makes me work harder and harder!
Words of wisdom
If you want something, you will always find a time for it. It is your body and you have to take care of it because no one else can do it for you. Don't compare yourself to others, instead compare yourself to the person you were yesterday!
Dance and Fitness Instructor at Step Up Dance Academy
Born in South Africa, I am a dance teacher, choreographer and now a certified fitness instructor. I started out with gymnastics at age four like most little girls, but suffered a hamstring muscle injury at age 13. After recovery, I decided to attend a dance class with my best friend and ended up falling in love with it. The journey really started when I went on to study dance, drama and musical theatre at the Waterfront Theatre School in Cape Town. I trained in various styles such as (ISTD) tap, modern, ballet, jazz and urban dance. I moved to the UAE in 2017, invited personally by a dance and music studio, where I worked for two years before proceeding to a fitness centre for dance fitness and personal training.
Workout sessions: I normally work out about four times a week max, depending on how exhausted I am.
Favourite type: I enjoy high intensity body weight training for my body type. I am obsessed with Natasha Oceana workouts on YouTube and then I'll do weight training twice a week as well.
On cheat days, I. try and still eat balanced meals, however, I do indulge on ice creams and sorbets, especially the ones from London Dairy.
Gym wear: Dubai's outlet malls if on a budget. Gym Shark if you got money to spend.
What fuels you? Honestly, just feeling good on the inside and making sure I can contribute to someone else's growth is the ultimate goal for me.
Words of wisdom
Don't be too hard on yourself. If you can't go to a gym, then turn to YouTube. It is so easy to follow along in the comfort of your own home. Make sure to eat healthier during the week too, so your cheat meal feels like a proper treat.
Fitness Instructor at Diamond Fitness Dubai
I am Emirati and my fitness journey started in 1990. I've always held a passion for bodybuilding and fitness since childhood. I started initially at Super Star and Flex gyms in Dubai, then later moved on to train at various fitness centres across the city.
I was interested in understanding more about fitness and sought knowledge from my instructors and read through lots of books about it. After gaining 30 years of experience, I wanted to share my knowledge and help people achieve their fitness goals and change their lives.
Workout sessions: Six days a week.
Favourite type: Group workout with full body exercise.
On cheat days, I. try to have a balanced diet. So, I "cheat with balance"
Gym wear: Nike and Decathlon are my usual places to shop.
What fuels you? I am always inspired by checking out myself how fit and healthy I am there and also by people around me.
Words of wisdom
Motivation may give you the confidence to start but you're not always going to be motivated every day. If you want to be successful, you have to be disciplined in putting in the work on the days you don't feel like it. That's what makes all the difference - 'self-discipline will get you farther than motivation ever will.'
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