A Journey Into Bodybuilding
Crina Manea’s journey into the world of bodybuilding started in 2014, when she entered her first competition. It was a defining moment that ignited her passion for fitness and set her on the path to becoming a professional athlete. Manea had always been inspired by transformation—both physically and mentally—and bodybuilding became the perfect outlet for that. Her debut show may have seen her place fifth, but it planted a seed that would later grow into a professional bodybuilding career.
In 2023, she achieved what many aspiring athletes dream of—attaining PRO status as a bikini professional athlete with the WBFF (World Beauty Fitness and Fashion) league. This milestone was not just a title; it was the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth. She also has a full time career as data analyst and an MBA in business intelligence/ analytics. Encouraging others to make time in their hectic daily routines to prioritize health and well-being.
The Inspiration Behind the Fitness Journey

One of the biggest influences in Crina’s career came from a close friend who competed in the NPC (National Physique Committee) as a competitor. Watching her friend undergo a complete transformation over just 12-16 weeks inspired Crina to explore bodybuilding for herself. She immediately took up the challenge and started training under Serge Saric, a well-known promoter of bodybuilding shows. This relationship provided her with the foundation she needed to enter the competitive world of bodybuilding, and it has remained a constant source of motivation throughout her career.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Growth
Crina Manea stands out in the world of bodybuilding not just because of her accomplishments but because of her unwavering commitment to self-improvement. “I am always in competition with the old version of myself,” she says, reflecting a mindset that has driven her to continuously evolve as both an athlete and a person.
Her competitive edge is fueled by her desire to always become better than she was yesterday. This drive will be on full display in her upcoming professional show in Atlantic City in December, where Crina aims to surpass her previous achievements and take another step toward greatness.
What Makes Crina Manea Unique?

Crina’s journey is defined by her core values, which have shaped her approach to life and fitness. She prides herself on having built her career without ever compromising her principles, making her a role model for many aspiring athletes. Her refusal to cut corners or take shortcuts has earned her the respect of her peers and fans alike.
In a world where quick fixes and compromises are often tempting, Crina Manea’s story is a reminder that true success is built on hard work, integrity, and resilience. She has always chosen the harder path, and this is what makes her journey so special.
How Crina Chooses Her Projects
Crina’s bodybuilding career is not something she pursues alone. She works closely with a coach and a team who help her plan and prepare for competitions. This collaborative approach allows her to stay focused on her training while her team manages the logistics of contest schedules and event planning.
Every project Crina takes on is carefully considered, ensuring that she is always moving in the right direction. Her team plays a crucial role in keeping her on track, allowing her to focus on self-improvement and performance.
Crina’s Mission: Empowering Women
Crina Manea is not just focused on her personal achievements; she also wants to be a motivational beacon for women of all ages and body types. Her goal is to help women find their authentic selves by showing them how they can transform both their bodies and spirits through fitness. She believes that fitness is about more than just physical appearance—it’s about self-discovery and empowerment.
By sharing her journey, Crina hopes to inspire women to embrace their unique beauty and achieve their own fitness goals, regardless of where they are starting from.
What Success Means to Crina Manea

To Crina, success is not a destination—it’s a continuous journey. “Success means being better than I was yesterday and still not as good as I can be tomorrow,” she explains. This philosophy is what keeps her pushing forward, always striving for improvement, even after major accomplishments like her PRO status.
Major Milestones in Crina’s Life
Crina Manea’s life is filled with milestones that reflect her tenacity and courage. One of her most significant moments came on July 13, 2005, when she landed at JFK airport in New York City with just $300 in her pocket and no concrete plans for the future. This leap of faith marked the beginning of her American journey, and it taught her that perseverance and belief in oneself can overcome any obstacle.
Another defining moment in her life was becoming a professional athlete after 10 years of hard work. This achievement not only validated her efforts but also proved to her that dreams are worth chasing, no matter how long the road may seem.
Upcoming Projects and Future Goals
Looking to the future, Crina Manea has her sights set on becoming a professional yoga instructor. She plans to take a certification course in Bali, adding another layer to her already impressive skill set. This new endeavor is part of her broader mission to continue evolving, both physically and spiritually.
Crina’s commitment to personal growth doesn’t stop at her athletic achievements. She is always seeking ways to better herself as a person, ensuring that her inner development matches the external progress she has made as a professional athlete.
Recent Achievements in the WBFF
Crina recently achieved a major milestone by taking second place in the WBFF’s Pro Diva Bikini Model 45+ category, an event that draws some of the most elite athletes in the sport. Competing on the world stage was a remarkable experience, and placing second solidified her position as a top competitor in her category.
Her success at the WBFF Worlds has only added fuel to her determination to win her next competition. She views every event as an opportunity to grow and prove to herself that she can always reach new heights.