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An injury has kept Vera Zvonareva out of the game since the London Olympics, but the Russian tennis star’s off-court endeavors have kept her quite busy. Zvonareva has been balancing both education and fitness, earning a degree in international business relations and helping to develop a racquet conditioning class. A Glam Slam had the opportunity to participate in the latter. The 45-minute total body workout, dubbed Fila Slam, was created in conjunction with Sports Club/LA fitness experts and inspired by the Fila sponsored WTA Tour tennis champ.

The Fila Slam class was designed to improve a participant’s play by focusing on strength, endurance and overall total body conditioning through a variety of exercises and drills. Miami-based Sports Club/LA instructor/trainer, Greg Corso, watched videos of Zvonareva and incorporated her training techniques into the fitness program. Squats, jumps and burpees (which Zvonareva cited as her favorite exercise) are among the featured moves, and resistance bands and free weights are added to increase difficulty. The quick transitions between exercises were also inspired by the game, as Vera is constantly on the move. And in keeping with the theme, the workout also features “rallies,” unexpected bursts of of high-intensity exercise. For additional information on the Fila Slam class, which will be available at Sports Club/LA locations nationwide in September, visit here.

A Glam Slam caught up with Vera to talk about the new workout, her fitness regime and fashion. Check it out:

Can you briefly describe the Sports Club/LA Fila Slam workout and how it came about?

I think it was a great idea to create a class that would focus on specific training for racquet sports. There are so many people that love to play tennis and want to take their game to a little higher level. That level requires a little better fitness and footwork that is very specific for that particular sport. And to have such a class that is beneficial for your sport is great. My sponsor Fila approached me about being involved with the development of the class with their partner The Sports Club LA. I was so excited to share my knowledge and training with the team to help them develop a class inspired by my workout regimen.

Injuries have kept you away from the WTA Tour. What have you been doing to maintain your level of fitness?

Yes, you are correct. I have been away from the game since Olympic Games back in August 2012. I have had a surgery on my shoulder since then and I have been focusing mainly on my rehabilitation. Soon I should be allowed to start training and I will be focusing on my overall fitness level as much as I will start doing some specific footwork, strength and cardio drills similar to what you saw in the Fila SLAM class.

What performance qualities do you look for in your sportswear, especially during competition? Which Fila pieces are among your favorites?

I think that tennis has always been part of the fashion world. Tennis attire must fit different parameters nowadays such as an athletic look, comfort and prettiness. So I think it is great to be watching athletes performing at that high level and look beautiful on the court. I have SO many favorite Fila pieces. It is hard to choose one, but I do love the skort and racerback I wore when I won the Australian Open Doubles title last year.

How would you describe your off-court style?

I think I like sporty but chic outfits at the same time. Something that makes you look girly but still very comfortable for any activities.

For a brief look at the Fila Slam event with Vera and a preview of the footwear and apparel offerings from Fila’s Fall 2013 collection, check out the video and photos below:

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