Olga aka Umka is an ASICS Frontrunner and professional skydiver based in Dubai. When she's not jumping out of planes, Umka enjoys Canopy Piloting and inspiring women to be curious, courageous and brave enough to get involved in extreme sports through her lifestyle blog. We recently caught up with this adrenaline junkie to see how she is working towards turning her passions into reality.
‘From the moment I made my first jump over 11 years ago, I’ve considered myself a skydiver. The passion that very first jump inspired in me has led me down a path that now has me working as a full time skydiving instructor. Growing up, I played every sport I could get my hands on. I tried everything and eventually discovered CrossFit and got my Level 1 CF Coach certificate. I have now built a life for myself which involves all three of my passions: skydiving, HIIT and running.’- Olga
What’s your hustle?
Making a full-time living as an extreme sports athlete at prestigious skydiving operation drop zones around the world. I am driven with a philosophy of representing the world of human flying and to draw attention to the incredibly beautiful air discipline of Canopy Piloting. Apart from this, I am currently working on a lifestyle blog for the modern day adventures of women. My aim for this blog is to inspire women to embrace who they are and live their lives to the fullest.
What does #liveinnermost mean to you?
To me Living Innermost means finding balance between my fast-paced lifestyle and my health and wellbeing. It’s so easy to get caught up in the madness that is life. Taking care of our physical and inner selves breeds positivity and happiness, inside and out.
Favourite Innermost products, and why?
The Lean Protein is amazing because it helps me build lean muscle and stay toned. It tastes so good and I love adding it to my smoothie bowls for some extra antioxidants. The Energy Booster because I just love this extra kick of energy before my workouts.
What do you do to maintain a healthy lifestyle?
Running is my go to work out, but I mix my training up with a variety of different cardio activities, weight lifting and more fun forms of exercise like boxing, aerial silks or pole dancing. Whatever floats my boat and makes me happy really. It’s all about making exercise part of your daily routine so that you don’t have to think twice about it.
What’s on your bucket list?
If I ever find time to have a vacation that doesn’t include skydiving, I’d definitely go to the Soi Ta-iad Fitness Village in Thailand for a week of intense fitness training. That, or snow camping up a mountain on a hardcore expedition.
Favourite inspirational quote/words?
“You’re never given a dream without also being given the power to make it true.” ― Richard Bach, Illusions.
Most physically challenging thing you’ve done?
I think it would be my first CrossFit Open Games in 2015. I have never pushed myself as hard and lifted that heavy ever. That’s when I realised that in order for me to win, no one has to loose. It’s my own inner competition against myself. Great experience!
Best travelling tip you’ve picked up?
Be a sponge. Get out there and soak it all in. Be open to everything that life throws at you. Because if you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might as well stay home.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t take anything for granted. Don’t assume that you have tomorrow. Keep moving forward!
Book currently on your bedside table?
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck. I was sceptical about the book because of the title but once I started to read, I loved it.
Latest obsession?
It definitely would be Swoop Freestyle! Its a cutting-edge Canopy Piloting discipline that involves competitors flying at high speeds across a body of water in order to score points based on style and execution of highly technical freestyle moves, prior to landing on the floating platform. To master it – is my biggest challenge nowadays.
Number one reason for taking care of your body?
Everyone is ageing. I have yet to see anyone win this game. But to have a good and long ride, you’ve got to take proper care of the only vehicle you’ve been given.
To see and hear more from Olga, head to her Instagram page (@sky_umka).
