Page 17 - Demo

www.MOSTmag.com || FITNESS MAG A ZINE || 17it up and trying new things. I ran in 5k races on the weekend for my (one) longer cardio session of the week, and I also performed plyos and HIIT for my regular cardio sessions. My hardest workout during this prep was when I spontaneously decided to run a half marathon without training for it, just for a challenge. It was my first time ever running that far. I made it under 2 hours and without stopping. I don%u2019t think I will be running one again anytime soon...ha!MFM: What does winning for a historic third time mean for you? AK: It means the world to me. I am so amazed at how far I have come. I have managed to make a career out of what I love to do. Who would%u2019ve ever thought? I feel like Cinderella. The NPC was the stepping stone to make this girl%u2019s dreams come true. I am so glad I decided to enter my first NPC Bikini show 4 years ago. Since then, this sport has taken me places that I never would have imagined. Before I started competing in NPC/IFBB Bikini, I never thought I would leave Ohio. Now, I am traveling the world and meeting all kinds of people. I am experiencing new adventures and cultures. What a life!MFM: After a third victory as Ms. Bikini Olympia, what could possibly be next? AK: Would you try to reach or surpass Phil Heath%u2019s 5x championship? Of course I will go for number 4! And 5! And 6! And so on...I love competing. I love the adrenaline rush. As an IFBB athlete, competing has opened many doors for me and expanded my fitness career, so it will always take priority. MFM: We know how much you love to travel, what are some of your big trips, scheduled for 2016? AK: Well, honestly I am not sure yet. When I get booked for an appearance, photo shoot or seminar, I usually get a few months or weeks notice. I don%u2019t mind it that way either. I am a very spontaneous person. I do not have any attachments keeping me from traveling whatsoever... No husband, kids, pets or 9 to 5 job. I am free as a bird to fly whenever or wherever I choose. Nothing is holding me back. It%u2019s a wonderful feeling.MFM: Tell us about the support and impact of your management team in your success in the world of fitness? AK: They have helped me TREMENDOUSLY throughout my pro career. I don%u2019t know where I would be without FMG honestly. From day one they have supported and guided me in the right direction. They truly know their way in this industry and I couldn%u2019t thank them enough for all that they do for not only myself but the other