Name: Karina Todorova
Started at CrossFit Zeeburg: April 2017
Viking Run distance: 19 km

Former Karate champion Karina will join the team and participate in the Viking Run. Last time she did the 13 km, this time the 19 km edition. An exciting step forward and definitely a lot harder, both physically and mentally. Karina was kind enough to set some time aside to tell us about how she prepares for this year’s Viking Run.

How were you introduced to CrossFit?

I have always been doing sports in my life. I did martial arts for 14 years but when I moved abroad I couldn’t continue with it anymore. That’s why I was looking for a sport which includes full body workouts. Next to my previous workplace there was a CrossFit box and I was curious to try those heavy workouts that my colleagues were doing. I joined a couple of WODs and I was sold immediately.

How do you stay motivated?

I always try to improve the strength and mobility of my body, CrossFit is definitely helping me with both. Seeing the improvement of my technique and being able to lift heavier and be more agile keeps me motivated to push a little harder every time.

Nutrition is an important but often overlooked aspect of training – What is your approach to nutrition?

I try to eat food which provides me with enough energy throughout the day. The best approach for me is to listen to my body and eat homemade food. Recently, I am trying to do intermittent fasting and will see where that takes me 🙂

The Iron Viking Run is described as “the most intense version of the marathon”, what aspect of the Run will be the biggest challenge for you?

Keeping a steady pace throughout those 19 km.

Do you do anything specific to prepare for the Iron Viking Run?

Next to CrossFit and bouldering I started running again in order to improve my endurance.

What is your favorite & least favorite exercise?

My favorite exercise is the Deadlift. My least favorite is the handstand push up (because I can’t do them haha).

Last question: For what can we wake you up in the middle of the night?

A 1000 high kicks on the punching bag.