5,394 miles.
That is the distance from the small Russian city of Pyatigorsk to New York City’s latest borough, Brooklyn, but in the world of modeling, everyone has a unique journey all their own.
Whether one wishes to be a Instagram, glamour, fitness, bikini, swimsuit, fetish, alternative/inked, boudoir, fashion or plus-sized, models come in all shapes and sizes and from many different backgrounds.
With spring now here and summer right around the corner, many want to start getting to the gym, working out, getting toned and lose a couple of pounds. If you are looking for some motivation in getting in shape, looking good and getting fit, look no further than Pyatigorsk-born, Brooklyn-based fitness model Anastasia Todorova.
A NPC Bikini competitor and a certified graduate of the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), the 28-year-old Todorova is a rising star in the fitness modeling world, as she has been interviewed by fitness websites such as Nordic Shape, and is also set to appear in the 2017 Baltimore Grand Prix & Fitness Expo Model Search. With a well-toned and tanned athletic shape and curves to die for, and a alluring and sexy look, the 5’5 Todorova is easy on the eyes, but tough on you in the gym.
Below is my Q and A with the Russian fitness bombshell as we talk about getting fit, staying motivated, fit-shaming, her love of Philadelphia and the New York Rangers.
Name: Anastasia Todorova
Age: 28
Height: 5’5
Birthplace: Pyatigorsk, Russia
Measurements: 38.5-25.5-38.5
Social media links: Instagram: @anastasia_the_love | Facebook: Anastasia Todorova, New York
Modeling Agency: Freelance
Robert D. Cobb: What kind of model do you consider yourself? (Instagram, pin-up/glamour, fashion)
Anastasia Todorova: “Fitness model.”
Robert D. Cobb: What brands have you modeled for? Which one do you enjoy modeling for the most?
Anastasia Todorova: “I haven’t modeled for any brands yet.”
Robert D. Cobb: Where has been your favorite place to shoot?
Anastasia Todorova: “Brooklyn Bridge, New York”
Robert D. Cobb: What is the most exciting aspect of modeling?
Anastasia Todorova: “The shoot itself. I find it to be such an adrenaline rush when I shoot. I enjoy absolutely everything about it.
From the makeup to the styling. I also find it so exciting to be published. I don’t know too much about that as of yet, but I think its so thrilling to see yourself in a magazine).”
Robert D. Cobb: Within the industry, who is your inspiration?
Anastasia Todorova: “Alice Matos, Oksana Grishina, Maria Kuzmina, Wendy Fortino.”
What is your secret to staying in shape?
Anastasia Todorova: “It is not a secret, fasted cardio, weight lifting and strict diet.”
Outside of modeling, what are your hobbies?
Anastasia Todorova: “Training and nutrition. I will compete in fitness bikini in June.”
Robert D. Cobb: With fitness bikini modeling becoming more popular thanks to social media platforms like Instagram, what are your thoughts on how it can be in creating a positive body image for women?
Anastasia Todorova: “The images of fitness bikini are meant to inspire women and remind them to stay on track of their fitness goals and also represent a healthy body-image role model.”
Robert D. Cobb: What are your thoughts on “fit-shamers”? I’ve noticed online, that a lot of women tend to be shaming others for being too fit, too fat, too pretty/promiscuous, as a woman, what are your thoughts on this and how can it be addressed?
Anastasia Todorova: “Fit shaming, the trend seeks to attack people who are fitness enthusiasts. It tries to make fun of people who work hard to stay healthy and fit.
Here’s why it is a problem.
While everybody is tip-toeing around the concept of fat shaming, and supporting the big and the beautiful, they are totally disregarding the harmful effects of obesity, and shepherding the way to poor metal and physical health.”
Robert D. Cobb: What is the most exciting part of working out and staying in shape?
Anastasia Todorova: “I love to change my exercise routine every 6 or 8 weeks, and every training session is the most exciting part for me! Fasted cardio 6 times a week for staying in shape and, of course, I’m keeping my eyes on macros.”
Robert D. Cobb: What motivates you to succeed?
Anastasia Todorova: “Look in the mirror.”
Robert D. Cobb: What is your opinion of the growth and popularity of “athleisure” Fitness or fashion fad?
Anastasia Todorova: “It is a fashion fad.”
Robert D. Cobb: What fitness and workout tips and tricks do you suggest to keeping in shape?
Anastasia Todorova: “Find room in your schedule for 30-40 minutes workout 2-3 times a week- it is possible! Take stairs instead of elevator, walk 10-15 minutes instead of getting a bus ride, stop eating junk food, eat more vegetables, less sugar. Drink more water!”
Sports question: Who are your favorite teams and clubs?
Anastasia Todorova: New York Rangers. I’m a hockey lover.
Robert D. Cobb: What are your favorite cities to travel to?
Anastasia Todorova: “Philly, I’m in love with this city!” 
Robert D. Cobb: What advice would you give to women aspiring to get into modeling?
Anastasia Todorova: “I’m an aspiring fitness model. In my opinion you have to be prepared for opportunities, and that entails doing more than looking up a few things on the internet, and posing in front of the mirror.
You have to know what you are doing. For example, do a digital camera test on yourself, and learn your angles.”
Special thanks to Ms. Anastasia Todorova for her time and assistance during the Q and A interview process. Images used are with permission and are the rightful property of their owners.