A few years ago, this once-fragile Russian girl named Natalia Kuznetsova just wanted to gain some weight through powerlifting but never knew she would later become a renowned master of the sport.
Natalia, also known as the “Russian Amazon,” is a three-time world champion.
Image: Natalia Kuznetsova
The 26-year-old star was born in Chita, a location in far-east Russia, where she started her practice on bodybuilding and powerlifting at the age of 14. She weighed only 40kg at that time but now has a total body mass of 104kg (offseason) and 86kg (on stage).
She gained admission to study at the Moscow State Academy of Physical Culture in 2008 and in 2013, she earned a graduate certificate from the institution.
Now a bodybuilding coach, the champ is open to discussions on the use of anabolic steroids and admits to taking estrogen blockers.
Although her current sport does not require drug tests, the Russian Amazon says use of steroids gives professional weightlifters an edge during competitions.
The popular European bench-press and deadlift champion revealed she trains everyday for several hours and maintains a healthy diet which includes proteins instead of sauces and spices.
Natalia stands on 170cm and has a 45-centimeter wide hands.
She is married to Vladislav Kuznetsov, though she is open and proud of her sexual orientation as a bisexual, a reason people have mixed opinions about her personality and achievements.
“People definitely recognize me,” she told Caters News Agency. “An athletic body can be seen under clothes. Many people recognize me and ask to take a photograph with them. Many people even know my name.”
