A highlight on the rising NPC athlete Viktoriya Korolkova
In the highly competitive world of NPC Bikini, Viktoriya Korolkova has emerged as one of the sport’s most promising athletes. With a journey marked by discipline, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Viktoriya’s rise in the fitness world is a story of grit and passion. From her beginnings in regional competitions to nearly clinching her IFBB Pro card, she is well on her way to making an indelible mark on the sport.
Early Beginnings: Building a Foundation of Success
Viktoriya’s journey to the NPC stage started in her hometown of Astana, Kazakhstan, where her early interest in fitness and sports drove her to compete in regional and national bodybuilding events. She quickly proved her potential at the FBBR St. Petersburg Championship (2021), where she earned 3rd Place in the Junior Class, 3rd in Novice, and 6th in Open Fitness Bikini.
Her success continued the following year at the FBBR St. Petersburg Cup (2022), where she placed 2nd in the Junior Class. These early competitions were crucial stepping stones, providing her with the experience, confidence, and hunger to take her career to the next level. It was clear that Viktoriya was destined for more, and she set her sights on the NPC—the only path to earning IFBB Pro status and eventually competing at the iconic Mr. Olympia.
The NPC Journey: Nearing Pro Status
Joining the NPC in 2024 was a turning point in Viktoriya’s career. Her debut season was a whirlwind of success, with strong performances in some of the sport’s most prestigious events. Her standout moment came at the NPC Worldwide Eurasia Championship, where she was crowned Absolute Bikini Champion, demonstrating her dominance on the international stage.
Other highlights of her 2024 season included:
- NPC Worldwide INVICTUS Battle of 30 Clubs: Absolute Champion
- NPC Worldwide Oksana Grishina International Classic: 2nd Place Bikini At her final competition of the year was the NPC Worldwide INVICTUS Pro Qualifier, where she came heartbreakingly close to earning her IFBB Pro card, missing it by just one point. This near-miss only fueled her drive to return stronger in the next season, with her sights firmly set on achieving Pro status and ultimately competing on the Olympia stage.
Contributing Beyond the Stage
Ahead of the NPC Worldwide INVICTUS Pro Qualifier, Viktoriya showcased her leadership and passion for fitness by contributing to a seminar attended by 200 athletes. This unique event featured an elite panel that included 3x Ms. Bikini Olympia Ashley Kaltwasser, Center Podium’s Chris Minnes, NASM Master Trainer and IFBB Pro Andre Adams, and Kazakhstan’s own IFBB Pro Aishia Kaipova. Viktoriya played a pivotal role in presenting topics related to fitness, posing, and competition strategy, sharing her insights and experience with aspiring athletes.
This seminar was not only a learning opportunity for participants but also a testament to Viktoriya’s dedication to giving back to the fitness community. It highlighted her ability to inspire and mentor others, further cementing her role as a leader both on and off the stage.
The Role of Education in Her Success
Viktoriya’s competitive edge is not just a result of her hard work on the stage but also her academic achievements. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Science from the renowned Lesgaft National State University in St. Petersburg, Russia. Her studies focused on martial and non-Olympic sports, equipping her with a deep understanding of biomechanics, physiology, and sports psychology.
Her academic training shaped her holistic approach to fitness, blending scientific knowledge with practical application. This foundation has been instrumental in refining her training regimens, optimizing her nutrition, and maintaining peak performance under pressure. Viktoriya’s ability to balance rigorous academic pursuits with her athletic career demonstrates the level of discipline and commitment she brings to every aspect of her life.
Chasing the Ultimate Dream
As she looks ahead to the next chapter of her career, Viktoriya remains laser-focused on her goals: earning her IFBB Pro card and eventually competing at Mr. Olympia. Each competition brings her one step closer to making that dream a reality. Viktoriya’s story is not just about the pursuit of titles—it’s about proving what’s possible with unwavering dedication and an unrelenting drive to succeed.
From her early days in Kazakhstan to the bright lights of NPC stages, Viktoriya Korolkova’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and persistence. With her sights set on the future, the fitness world eagerly awaits what this rising star will achieve next. Keep an eye on Viktoriya—her story is far from over.
