Aibiyke Nurlanova, a 19-year-old resident of Bishkek, started practicing competitive ballroom dancing at an early age. Throughout her dance career, she has won numerous medals and trophies, become a winner of international tournaments, a finalist at the World Championship, and a multiple champion of Kyrgyzstan. She holds the title of candidate for master of sports and has a representation for master of sports, while dancing remains an important part of her life alongside her studies.
In our conversation, Aibiyke shared how her love for ballroom dancing began, her mentors, as well as her achievements and career path in this sport.
-How did you start dancing ballroom?
It all started when my mom took me to a competition when I was just five years old. I was enchanted by the performances of the children and the beautiful dresses, and then I had a desire to dance. My parents took me to a dance studio, and soon I realized that this was my choice. I began to enjoy the training, and soon dancing became an integral part of my life, and my friends from the studio became like family to me.
- Where do you train?
-I train at the Alexis studio under the guidance of Alexey Kibkalo and Tatiana Kogadey. They helped me fall in love with dancing. It’s a serious school that raises champions. From an early age, we were taught discipline, responsibility, and regular training. At that time, it seemed obvious, but over time I realized how important this foundation is.
- When did you realize that dancing is not just a hobby?
- Gradually, with the increasing number of tournaments. When the competitions and trips become regular, you no longer perceive it as just a club. In partner dancing, there is responsibility not only to yourself but also to your partner and coach. If you are not ready, it affects the result. At that moment, you start to take training seriously and prepare for each competition.
-What achievements do you consider the most significant?
- Over the years, I have accumulated many awards, each of which has its own significance. One of the most memorable moments was winning the Baltic Cup in Riga — it was an international championship, and this victory is truly important for us. I also have many first places in Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkey, and participated in the World Championship in Romania. The final of the World Championship in Astana at the Silk Way tournament was an important milestone in my career. Thanks to dancing, I have been able to visit many countries and learn about their cultures, which has also enriched me as an athlete. At the national level, I have become a champion several times and hold the title of candidate for master of sports, and I have already been represented for master of sports.
- Have you always performed in a pair?
- Yes, throughout my career I have danced in a pair. Previously, the solo direction was almost not developed, so my partner and I prepared specifically as a pair. I have had three partners, and each change is a new stage that requires restructuring relationships and aligning personalities. With my last partner, Howard Cholponbaev, we achieved significant success, including reaching the finals of the World Championship and winning national championships.
-What do you do besides dancing?
Currently, I am studying at university for my bachelor's degree. Education is very important to me, and I try to combine my studies with training. Dancing has taught me discipline, and in my free time, I tutor in mathematics and spend time with friends.
- How has dancing influenced your studies?
Incredible! Dancing develops discipline and endurance, and constant training teaches you to plan your time. I graduated from a physics and mathematics school and successfully passed the exams: 213 points on the ORT and 1530 on the SAT. Thanks to sports, I have learned to set goals for myself and achieve them, whether in studies or competitions.
- Have you received offers to study abroad?
Yes, I was accepted into several international universities on scholarships, and there were different options. But I decided to continue my studies and dance here.
- Do you plan to continue your career in dancing?
Yes, I want to develop in this direction. I am confident that I can achieve more as an athlete in the future, and I am considering the possibility of becoming a coach.
- What are the costs associated with ballroom dancing?
It is quite an expensive sport. You need to consider the cost of costumes, specialized shoes, hairstyles, makeup, and travel to competitions. For girls, expenses are generally higher. Much depends on the enthusiasm of the coaches, who spend their time and effort to help us succeed.
- What do you feel before stepping onto the dance floor?
- I feel the support of the audience, the coach, and the younger generation of dancers. Nervousness is always present, even with experience, but over time I have learned to control it. When the music starts, it’s important to focus on the program, technique, and interaction with the partner to showcase everything we have practiced in training.
The story of Aibiyke Nurlanova demonstrates that the path to success in competitive ballroom dancing requires years of training, support from loved ones and coaches, as well as the ability to cope with pressures and competitions. This is what shapes a high level of mastery.
