Winning Yourself Is the Most Meaningful Achievement – Elena’s Superstar Journey

“Honestly, winning the trophy wasn’t my sole purpose,” Elena says. “Yes, I worked incredibly hard, gave 110% to prepare, but my focus was to step onto that stage carrying all the preparation, passion and heart I have. I just wanted people to see the real me and to enjoy the experience.”

But winning meant more than a title. For Elena, it was about healing, growth, and connection. “The moment I received the trophy, parts of me that once felt ‘not enough’ healed. I am beyond grateful to the Les Mills Nordic team and jury for seeing the magic in me. It was a day full of EXTRA: meeting the other finalists, feeling the support in the room, and having my Romanian team in the front row. I truly believe winning yourself is the most meaningful achievement of all.”

Les Mills Nordic SUPERSTAR 2025 top 3 and jury.

From Loss to Purpose

Elena’s path into fitness wasn’t traditional, or easy. “I never did performance sport, I even had a medical exemption from PE as a child, which is kind of funny now,” she shares with a smile. Her first love was dance, and she spent 13 years as a professional dancer performing with Romanian artists on TV, in concerts and videos.

But everything changed a decade ago. “I discovered fitness during the most painful moment of my life, when I lost both of my parents. Fitness pulled me out of depression and helped me find myself again. From the very first class I attended, I felt like I was home. That was the moment I understood the big impact fitness can have on your mental and emotional health. Fitness truly saved me.”

Ten years later, she’s still teaching and now with the title of being group fitness instructor of the year within the Les Mills Nordic region.

Fitness With a Wider Purpose

Day to day, Elena wears two hats within World Class, Romania’s largest fitness chain. “By day, I’m a Corporate Sales Manager. I help companies invest in their employees' health, organize wellness events, and speak at conferences about the importance of physical activity. And by evening, I teach classes.”

It's a dual role that gives her a unique perspective. “It’s the perfect balance. I get to live both the strategic side of the industry and the emotional, human side on the gym floor. I love that.”

The Power of Authenticity

Whether she’s on stage speaking or teaching BODYCOMBAT, Elena brings more than movement, she brings meaning. “I’m an artist soul, a storyteller, a poetry writer. I love creating stories through our bodies and minds. Fitness empowers us to own who we are, that’s what I want to guide people toward, inside and outside the gym.”

Her inner drive? “Authenticity,” she says without hesitation. “When I express my true self, I connect deeply with others. That’s how we inspire real change.”

Choosing Yourself: One Class at a Time

After a class with Elena, she hopes participants walk out a little taller. “I hope they feel empowered, confident, and inspired. I remind them: every little step counts as a victory. A small win every day adds up to a life. And that, in the end, makes you a winner, is choosing yourself.”

Advice to Fellow Instructors

So what’s her advice for other instructors aiming to grow? “Take your heart with you, always. When you show up as the real you, you give others permission to do the same. That’s how you create a safe, authentic space. The world needs your truth!”

Looking Ahead: LES MILLS LIVE

Elena is preparing to share the stage with some of the world’s greatest instructors such as BODYCOMBAT Queen Rachael Newsham, at LES MILLS LIVE in Avicii Arena 30th of August, and the excitement is real.

“I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and honour to share the stage with the brightest Les Mills stars. The people who inspired me so much during this journey. I can’t wait to give my best performance and represent Romania alongside our amazing Master Trainer, Cristina Constantinescu and many others. But for now… back to work!”

Team BODYCOMBAT at Les Mills LIVE Stockholm 2023.

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