Namita Nayyar:
What motivated you to write your book « Dancing in the Water »? What does it speak about?
ANASTASIA ERMAKOVA:
People know very little about our sport even now when it becomes more popular every year. Still I used to be asked every time the same question by media and normal people about Synchro. That’s why I decided to write a book where I could reply every possible question about structure, rules(just general information), some technical aspects and my experience. So to underline I responded all questions I was ever asked in my life. That’s why this book suits to the fans of Synchro as well the little athletes and their parents.
Namita Nayyar:
Your present day fitness routine? 5 must do exercises for anytime fitness.
ANASTASIA ERMAKOVA:
I do kundalini yoga, that really helps me: my mind and my body. There are a lot of great exercises for muscle strength, flexibility and toning that even for me who knows something about physical activity was difficult enough for in the beginning. This kind of yoga includes exercises for whole body (abdomen, glutei, back muscles..).
On days I don’t do yoga I always do abdominal exercises one for low belly and one for diaframma , glutei (for example squats with the medical ball 4-5kg) arms exercises to keep my arms strong and toned. And always stretching with yoga roll and without.
Namita Nayyar:
Injury in sport becomes unavoidable in some instances and one is left to faces physical challenges. How did you go about managing the physical challenges of the sport? What is your advice for upcoming swimmers to cope with the stress of competition?
ANASTASIA ERMAKOVA:
Yes , I know something about sport injuries. In 2002 I got a serious injury on my right shoulder. Unfortunately due to a busy schedule of the competitions and preparation for them it was absolutely impossible to have a break or serious treatment (surgery) so I continued training. It was a tough time, it was a challenge, it was a price I needed to pay to become me and achieve all my goals and results.
I think the most important think for everyone and not only in sport is having motivation! Because if you have a good motivation you can move on and follow your dreams despite everything. Whatever doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.
My advice is work, go ahead, follow your dreams and never give up! Find your motivation and believe in yourself and your strength. There is no place to stress in sport. You must be strong enough to give your best. Knowing that you are doing your best and that you worked hard day after day , sacrificed your time and your energy and dedicated yourself gives you enough self confidence to cope with any obstacle not only in competition but throughout your life.
Namita Nayyar:
After retirement from sport what are the charity and support groups you are presently working with?
ANASTASIA ERMAKOVA:
I’m not working with any kind of such groups. Maybe because unfortunately Synchro is not a sport that could give any advantage that after retirement I could share or donate. Generally we don’t earn enough money that after there might be a possibility to help others. Usually everyone after retirement in Synchro starts working hard to earn money for life, family and all own needs.
Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
