Contenders ready! The arena lights blaze, the crowd’s anticipation electrifies the air, and modern-day warriors prepare to face formidable challenges. Among these brave souls stands Aneila Afsar, a trailblazing Hijab wearing athlete making history on the iconic show, Gladiators.
Who is Aneila Afsar?
Aneila Afsar is a British athlete and fitness coach, renowned for her dedication to empowering Muslim women through sustainable health and fitness practices. Her journey from a competitive taekwondo background to the Gladiators arena showcases her relentless pursuit of excellence and her commitment to breaking barriers.
She’s also a mum!
As a single mum, Aneila faces the challenge of managing the kids while keeping up her fitness routines.
But, she has a unique way to manage both.
Her Rise to Prominence
Aneila’s athletic journey began in the world of taekwondo, where she represented both Great Britain and Pakistan in international competitions.Her achievements in the sport laid a solid foundation for her transition into fitness coaching.
In 2025, she took on a new challenge by participating as a contender in the second series of the BBC’s Gladiators reboot, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Aneila Afsar on Gladiators
In February 2025, Aneila made her debut on Gladiators, competing in Heat 5 of the series. Her participation not only showcased her physical prowess but also her role as a pioneer, being the first hijabi athlete to compete on the show. This appearance resonated with many viewers, inspiring a diverse audience and challenging traditional norms in sports entertainment.
Quarter Finalist
The Quarter finals aired on Saturday 8th March – Did Aneila make it to the next round? You will have to tune in to find out.
Watch Gladiators on BBC Iplayer
Listen to Aneila speak about her experience:
Why Follow Her?
Inspirational Journey
Aneila’s path from martial arts to mainstream television exemplifies courage and determination. Her story inspires individuals to pursue their passions, regardless of societal expectations.
Engaging Content
On her Instagram handle, @aneila.active, Aneila shares insights into her training routines, behind-the-scenes moments from Gladiators, and motivational content that resonates with a broad audience.
Advocacy for Diversity
By breaking barriers as a Hijabi athlete on national television, Aneila advocates for greater representation and diversity in sports and media, encouraging others to embrace their identities.
Where to Find Her?
Follow Aneila Afsar on:
- Instagram: @aneila.active
- Website: Empower with Aneila
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