The leader of Kazakhstan’s women’s national team in the 400m hurdles, Adelina Zems, is currently at a training camp in Belek, Turkey. Qazathletics.kz caught up with her to ask a few questions—not just about her pre-season training, but much more.
— Why is this training camp important for you?
— Basically, the entire pre-season period is crucial, because I can only fully train for my main event—the 400m hurdles—on an outdoor track. It's just not possible to run it properly indoors.
— What goals have you set for yourself here in Turkey?
— The goals during pre-season are always the same: build volume, refine technique, and increase speed.
— What’s the hardest part and what’s the best part about being at camp?
— The hardest part is definitely the training itself—this is when we start building volume and working on speed. And the best part? When it’s warm and sunny, like it is here in Belek.
— What’s the first thing you pack in your suitcase for camp?
— Definitely my spikes and massage tools. And sunglasses! I never go anywhere without them.
— What are you hoping to achieve in the upcoming competition season?
— I’ve got a few goals for this season: improve my personal best, put in a strong performance at the Asian Athletics Championships, and compete in some meets in Europe.
— What inspires you the most in athletics?
— What really inspires me is getting to travel, discovering new places through the sport.
— What would you say to those who are just starting out in athletics?
— My advice to young athletes: be patient and believe in yourself.
In the photo: Adelina Zems training in Belek.
