Arber Xhekaj’s mom Simona flexes toned physique with “sweaty selfie” after raising concerns over obesity [via IG/@simonaxhekaj]

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj has already made a name for himself for his rugged style of play in the NHL. Arber, however, isn’t the only athlete in the family, as his brother, Florian, has also been drafted by the Habs, and he is currently playing for the Laval Rocket in the AHL.

The mother of the two athletes, Simona Xhekaj, is also fitness conscious. On Thursday, she shared a selfie of herself on her Instagram stories following a workout.

“Sweaty selfie. Don’t forget your heart is muscle too,” she wrote in the caption.

via Instagram /@simonaxhekaj

She also reshared a series of posts on her stories that addressed the rising concerns over the apparent increase in obesity among the population. Simona reposted a quote from bodybuilder Eddie Abbew that read:

“If you didn’t come from a healthy family, make sure a healthy family comes from you.”

via Instagram/@simonaxhekaj

Simona then reshared a tweet from Dr. Elie Jarrouge that discussed how obesity, once a rare phenomenon, has become widespread due to changes in the food environment. The tweet pointed out that the replacement of whole, nutrient-rich foods with ultra-processed, sugar-laden options has led to “food addiction” and urged everyone to eat healthy.

Arber Xhekaj’s mother heaps praise on son Florian

Earlier this week, Arber Xhekaj’s younger brother, Florian Xhekaj, had a standout night for the Laval Rocket. On Sunday, the 20-year-old forward notched three goals and two assists, earning first-star honors.

Florian’s family couldn’t be prouder. His mother, Simona Xhekaj, shared her excitement on X, despite not being able to watch the game live due to work at a tire shop. She quote-tweeted the Rocket’s post, writing:

“Every player needs game like this 💯 Unfortunately, mom was on duty at tire shop, but was able to watch on replay. Very proud of our deputy 👌🥰.”

Florian Xhekaj was previously drafted by the Canadiens in the fourth round in 2023. The youngster has been impressive in the AHL after an excellent season with the OHL’s Brantford Bulldogs. The 6-foot-3 forward recorded 34 goals and 65 points in 63 games before signing a three-year, $2.6 million entry-level contract with Montreal.

The Xhekaj brothers credit their parents, Jack and Simona, for their success. This summer, the brothers expressed their gratitude by gifting their father a Mercedes-Benz.