It’s no secret that here at VEREN we love fitness and wellness!

So each month, we will aim to introduce you to trainers, nutritionists and a variety of categories, from being active to wellness, ‘game changing’ items, fitness inspo, so be sure to check back next month too!

So, without further ado, we would like to introduce you to, the wonderful Aliki Charalambidou

Aliki is a successful business woman and President of CFSSD – Cyprus Federation of Social and Sport Dance.

She is also the Founder of Diversity Dance Studio, the Creator of Body Make-Over by Alicia and the Co-owner of MA Educational Institute Salto Perfetto.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A TRAINER AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A TRAINER?

I have been a trainer for the past 13 years. What inspired me … hm..
My passion for movement is so huge that I would not accept to spend less hours a week in the gym and dance classes. I wanted to transfer my passion to people.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?

I love the possibility of being able to change someone not only physically but also mentally. Working on their psychology and inner self. I coach them to be fighters, not only when training but in their everyday life too.

WHAT DOES A ‘DAY IN THE LIFE OF ALIKI’ LOOK LIKE?

A day in my life for others might seem scary but for me it’s my normality. I wake up and start training people from 8:00 in the morning, all the way to midday, in the meantime I run to meetings, organise upcoming events, teach dance classes and then back for continuing with afternoon/evening adult group classes. I always try to dedicate a minimum of one hour a day for my own training and just be with myself. This helps me keep my own balance and be productive as well.

WHAT DOES ‘WELLNESS’ MEAN TO YOU?

Wellness for me is being healthy and energetic. If you have your health then you have all you need to create the life you desire.
Life with no energy, is a waste of time.

WHEN DID YOU START DANCING AND WHAT TYPE OF EVENTS DO YOU TAKE PART IN?

I started Olympic Gymnastics when I was 5! I was actually sent when I was still in kindergarten, as I had a lot of energy and they assumed that this is what I needed. Yes, they were right! I switched to dancing at 12 years old and then continued to advance more and more when I studied in Hungary. Now the dancers attending my school are competing not only in Cyprus but abroad too. They take part in various competitions, such as jazz, acrobatics, street, modern and disco disciplines.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING DANCE ROUTINE YOU’VE EVER HAD TO TEACH?

The most challenging dance routine I had to teach is one that I had to prepare for the Lignano Sabiadoro World Dance Trophy, a 2017 event in Italy where we managed to get third place for Cyprus!

WHO INSPIRES YOU AND WHY?

I am inspired my people that are always improving themselves, are active, believe in themselves, are positive and love what they do.  People that smile, are passionate, energetic and fighters in life.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD?

My favourite food is Greek Souvlaki.

HOW DO YOU STAY MOTIVATED WHEN TIMES ARE TOUGH?

When times are tough I try to stay motivated by searching for new ideas in regards to my job and try to make adjustments that will motivate me. I must admit that I always listen to my intuition.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE KNOWN FOR?

I would like to be known for changing not only people’s body but for changing their mind set too. Guiding them to find their inner power. That is what Body Make Over By Alicia is all about!

Aliki is an experienced Fitness Trainer and Dance Instructor currently based in Nicosia, Cyprus.

Fitness is her passion, and is part of her everyday life. She teaches both children and adults and focuses on helping them reach their goals.

You can learn more about Aliki Charalambidou here and her studio, Diversity Dance Studio