The Auburn Hospital emergency doctor is now the face of the fifth Australian season, featuring on billboards around the country – all because one of the producers noticed her intense upper body workouts on Instagram.
“I grew up watching Ninja Warrior. In the past few years when I was feeling too sluggish to exercise, I would watch a few ninja runs just to feel a bit motivated,” she said.
“So when they asked me I just thought, why not? It was such a blessing to be selected, but I did not expect to be the cover girl so I’m really grateful for that as well.”
Alvina is still getting used to seeing her face everywhere and despite wearing a mask at work, has even had a patient recognise her.
Australian Ninja Warrior sees athletes take on a gruelling obstacle course suspended over water, and there’s no chance to practice. Competitors only see the course once and cannot watch anyone else take it on before their attempt.
Alvina’s preparation involved her usual practice of calisthenics – strength training using only your own body weight.
“We’re a very healthy bunch at Auburn Hospital. Sometimes during lunch break we will get a few doctors, nurses and receptionists together for a group workout,” she said.
“I do shift work in emergency and I actually feel more energised after I have done a workout in the morning. It’s a mood booster and an energy booster, and I feel like I’m at my best when I go into work.”
She also uses her fitness to motivate her patients.
“I’m a strong believer in preventative health. Being active myself helps me to be a role model to my patients,” she said. Catch Ninja Warrior Australia on Channel Nine, Sunday to Thursday.
