How and why did you become a personal trainer?
I’ve always been passionate about fitness. My mum took me to aerobics classes from the age of seven and I also did Latin dance as a child. I then studied fashion and became a fashion stylist but, because I was so interested in fitness, I decided to qualify as a personal trainer in 2016.
When did you join KBPT?
I’ve worked as personal trainer with my own clients and also in a gym. When a friend told me about KBPT, it sounded like a great fit. I joined the team in early 2022.
What do you do personally to keep fit?
I do a lot of weight training and pilates. I love pilates and I’m going to be teaching classes in Dalston soon.
What inspires you – both professionally and personally?
I inspire myself as I’ve been through a major transformation – I lost 40kg a few years ago. Being bullied about my weight at school hit me hard and I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved. I’m now strong and happy.
How do you motivate your clients?
I encourage them to focus on their goals and to have balance in their lives. I also bring lots of energy to our PT sessions. And I show them photos of my own transformation to help them understand what is possible.
What lessons have you learned as a personal trainer?
A lot of my clients worry that using weights will bulk them out. I use my own experience to show them that this isn’t the case. I can lift 60kg but I’m not bulky!
Bonus question… if you were offered a free flight for two to anywhere in the world, where would you go and who would you take with you?
There’s a new guy in my life so I’d invite him (or my brother, who is also cool!) and we’d go to Bali. I’ve never been there and it looks so beautiful.
Contact Kate at kate@kbpersonaltraining.co.uk to find out how Ilka or another member of the KBPT team could help you
