Being blessed with long legs usually transpires to one of two things: becoming a model or becoming an athlete. But to be a model, you also need the looks and to be an athlete, you need the skill. And since we can’t have it all, it’s pretty rare to be both.
Amy Pejkovic is pretty rare.
As a professional high-jumper and a model, Amy Pejkovic is the sort of girl you hope not to get put next to in the group photo. But spend five minutes with her and you’ll discover she’s actually the exact person you want by your side. With an equally attractive personality, it’s no doubt she’ll go far.
We sat down with Amy to discuss her new role as an ambassador for Champion and to find out more about the girl who sets the bar high. Below, she dishes on her weekly workout schedule, what makes her feel sexy and why she never drinks protein shakes.
Where are you in the world right now? Why?
I am currently in Sydney! I am here because it’s my home, where I work and where I train.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up on Sydney’s North Shore.
Where have you never been but wanted to go?
I have always wanted to go to the Maldives! There is nothing more appealing than a relaxing holiday in the sun with crystal clear water.
What makes you feel sexy?
When I am feeling confident in myself! There is nothing sexier than being confident.
Do you read the comments on your social posts?
Yes! Of course. I try to reply or like comments when I can, you have to keep the engagement up.
What is the craziest thing you’ve done on a shoot?
Definitely when I shot the David Jones “It’s in you” campaign. I was on a rooftop in Sydney hanging from wires spinning around! It was so much fun.
Talk us through your morning routine
I always get up with my partner and we take our dog for a walk and grab a coffee!
Being a female athlete, your training schedule must be a little different. Can you tell us about it? What’s an average week like for you?
My average week is: three gym sessions, two running sessions, two jumps session and some Pilates and rehab work. (Check out a typical gym session for Amy here).
Same goes for nutrition. Do you follow any particular diet or way of eating? If so, why?
To be honest I hate diets! These days everything is bad for you and everyone has an opinion on what is “clean”. I just have a balanced diet! So, I pretty much eat everything. If I want chocolate coated waffles, I’ll have them.
What does an average day on your plate look like?
It honestly changes every day! Most days, I’ll have ham with eggs and asparagus for breakfast, a chicken salad for lunch or a toasted sandwich, and whatever we decide to make for dinner! There has been a lot of soup during winter.
How do you fuel pre- and post-training?
Always with carbs/protein. I never have protein shakes!
Being a model and an athlete, do you have to be a bit more cautious than most or do you let yourself indulge often? If so, what’s your indulgence of choice?
Not really! I love chocolate. I’ll usually have a little bit every day.
We understand you were diagnosed with a brain tumour a few years ago, we’re sure you get asked about it a lot … do you want to talk about it? If so, how has it affected your personal and professional life?
I do find it hard talking about it. It always brings back emotions and bad memories, so I don’t get into too much detail otherwise I’ll find myself trying to pick myself back up again a few days later. However, it has certainty made me appreciate life’s little things a lot more, which has had an impact on every aspect of my life.
I’m sure qualifying for the Olympics is the end goal but what more immediate goals are you working towards at the moment?
Hopefully Commonwealth Games next year! Working on my mental health and I will forever dream of walking in the VS show!!!
Congratulations on your new campaign with Champion, what’s your favourite item from their new collection?
Oh, thank you!! Definitely the Reverse Weave Hoodies! I live in mine. I have a pink hoodie and I am OBSESSED!!
What fashion items are you currently wearing on repeat?
My Liven leather jacket I bought from Desordre in Sydney. I take it everywhere!
With such a large Instagram following, it’s safe to say you’re an inspiration to many. Who do you look to for lifestyle or style inspiration? Is there anyone you insta-stalk?
I will forever stalk Rosie Huntington-Whitely and Elyse Taylor. They are my fashion inspiration. I also love high jumper’s Blanka Vlasic and Yuliya Levchenko!
Quick questions…
Coffee order: strong cappuccino with half a sugar
Favourite café: Bertoni Café in Balmain
Favourite emoji: the nerd face!
3 things you’ll always find in my fridge: chocolate, kombucha and dinner leftovers.
Best new app I’ve used: I’m definitely not up to date on new apps! Haha. I do love the Farfetch app though – I have an obsession with designer bags.
If sugar were a superfood, my diet would consist of: CHOCOLATE
Most people probably don’t know this about me, but: I have a fear of clusters of small holes/bumps.
Follow @amypejkovic for more.
