I AM ALFA because resilience and perseverance are adjectives I personify. My inspiration comes from my two kids, whom I hope to motivate to achieve their best. Being mom at home, and a beast in the gym. That is ALFA.
Photography by: ALI SOHRAB
Venue: Olympians Gym
A little bio about your background and your journey, and where you are today.
Born and raised in small village in India, I came from very simple and traditional family. My Father died when I was 10 years old and my brothers were younger than me. My uncle was quite educated so he made sure I received a strong education.
Because of his support, I went to university and earned my Masters. After that my life took 180 degree turn, Kal was visiting India for his uncle’s wedding. One of my aunts arranged for us to meet. We met close to my village in a small. Within a week we got married and 6 months later I received my visa and I moved to Canada. I left all my family and friends back in India. I still remember Kal taking me to the gym the very first time (it was also my first time inside a gym- ever). I was nervous, scared and shy. I gradually started learning about exercises. Around that time, I also became pregnant with my daughter. After giving birth, shortly after, I became pregnant again with my son.
After two C sections and gaining about 60 pounds, I was determined to lose weight. I not only lost weight but I was in the best shape in my life up to that point.
At that moment, I thought about competing and lost very badly. Then I realized competition is not for me; being a mom and living in an extended family felt so impeding. Prep was the hardest thing I ever done so I gave up on competing till last year, when I stepped up on stage, placing second in 2 categories, making me eligible for one of the largest pro competitions in Canada, the Vanpro. I competed at the Pro Show and placed 3rd. Fitness taught me patience, and strengthened my discipline. Nothing comes without unconditional sacrifice and unprecedented focus. As a trainer, I love to see how people not only become physically strong but also become mentally strong and confident.
I AM ALFA because resilience and perseverance are adjectives I personify. My journey from a small village Indian, where girls were never encouraged to be active, and to play more submissive roles, to standing on stage at Vanproshow holding a trophy. My inspiration also comes from my two kids, whom I hope to motivate to achieve their best. Being mom at home, and a beast in the gym. That is ALFA.
When was the most ALFA moment in your life, and why?
The most Alfa moment is when I gave birth to my first child. To endure such remarkable pain for the sake of giving life it truly the most empowering moment any woman can experience.
How Has Covid-19 impacted your daily life? Covid hasn’t affected my life, a rolling stone never gathers moss. Humans are a resilient breed, and soon things will return to resume some normalcy. However, there were important lessons to be learned from this lockdown, namely, appreciation for life is far greater than material wealth. Be kind to yourself, and be kind to others.
Please share 5 things people don’t know about you.
I grew up on a farm
I have my masters in economics
I speak 3 languages
I started my fitness journey after having kids.
My favourite treat is Chocolate rice cake and peanut butter:)
Please name few ALFA people you know.
Kal Dosanjh
My Daughter Afsana
Michelle Obama
Oprah Winfrey
Mary Kom
What would be the ultimate tips you could share with everyone about LIFE?
Ultimate tips- consistency is the key and faith is the main ingredient. Life is short, live in the moment, be kind and compassionate, find a passion and pursue it, attach yourself to a mission, not a person, place or thing.
What would be the ultimate tips you could share with everyone about Health? It would be about our Mental Health.
We need to know that the stress we experience is a direct correlation of how we react to our circumstances. We also need to learn to cope through these situations by being mindful of your reaction, and do not forget to Breath and to relax.
Your top favorite quote:
The sky is the limit, DO NOT LIMIT YOURSELF. It’s ok to be afraid but do not stay there
Where people can find you?
Instagram: @sandyy_dosanjh
Facebook: Sandy Dosanjh
