Was born in a professional marathoners family. Mother European championship bronze and silver medallist, personal bests 2:26:51 (Marathon), 1:09:56 (Half Marathon, at age 41). The first sport was swimming (from 7 to 12), after that running. Was participate in four world and three European mountain running champs for the national team. Graduated from the University of Kazan with a journalism education. At the age 27 decided to switch to the Triathlon.