Julia Henriksson Embraces New Life and Training in Italy

Bjuv has been swapped for Padova. Julia Henriksson, 24, has no regrets about her decision.

– It's very cozy, says the Swedish sprinter.

It was last November when Sweden's fastest woman packed her bags and left her hometown of Bjuv in Skåne.

Julia Henriksson, who had a sensational breakthrough year, chose to move to Padova, Italy, to take the next step in her career.

– It has been a big adjustment from Sweden, but in a positive way. It's very inspiring to train with so many talented people, says Julia Henriksson.

Among her training group is British Olympic medalist Daryll Neita.

– It's absolutely fantastic. When you compete for good times in training, you know you can also be at the top in competitions, says Henriksson.

Training Nine Times a Week

After an intense competition period in Sweden, Henriksson returns to Padova next week.

But there's no talk of rest in her new hometown.

– There hasn't been much free time. We train nine times a week. There's a lot of focus on training, which is absolutely fantastic.

Henriksson lives in an apartment in the city center. Every day, she takes the tram through the old stone quarters to the training facility.

– It's very cozy and a beautiful city, she says, adding that visits from friends in Sweden now happen regularly.

These visits have included shopping, strolling along Padova's cobblestone streets, trips to the neighboring city of Venice – and, of course, enjoying good food.

– I'm not very good at cooking, though. I keep it very simple, Henriksson admits.

What's your signature dish?

Italian pasta is quite simple; in Sweden, we have many more ingredients. But I don't have a signature dish yet, I'm working on it, says Julia Henriksson.