Yolanda Hughes-Heying facts for kids

Yolanda R. Hughes-Heying (born October 30, 1963) is an American professional bodybuilder. She is known for her strong performances in the sport.

About Yolanda's Early Life

Yolanda Hughes-Heying was born in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on October 30, 1963. She grew up with her grandmother and four siblings. Her grandmother encouraged her to try gymnastics. As a child, Yolanda spent a lot of time at the local youth center. There, she explored her love for sports and staying fit.

When she was in high school, Yolanda was very good at her studies. She especially liked psychology and geography. By her senior year, she was a top athlete in track and field. She won many awards in events like hurdles, sprints, and the long jump. Even though track was her main focus, gymnastics helped her feel strong and determined. She dreamed of becoming an Olympic gymnast.

Yolanda's Bodybuilding Journey

Starting as an Amateur

In 1981, Yolanda got a scholarship to Western Kentucky University. She continued with both track and gymnastics. That same year, a local bodybuilder named Hillbillie Jim saw her training. He asked her to join a women's bodybuilding contest he was organizing. Yolanda was not sure at first. Her passion was track and gymnastics, not bodybuilding.

After talking more with Jim, she realized she could help shape the future of women's bodybuilding. The competition was only four weeks away! Despite the short notice, she competed and finished in second place.

In 1982, Yolanda moved to California to support her family. She went to Saddleback College and joined the track team. She earned a scholarship for her athletic skills. She also kept training in both bodybuilding and gymnastics. She spent most of her free time at the gym.

By 1984, Yolanda's scholarship ended. With family duties, she decided to focus on her sports. That year, she qualified for a national bodybuilding competition. She trained hard at the San Clemente Gym. The people there gave her lots of support. She placed third in her first national event. This gave her valuable experience. Later, in 1991, she placed second at the USA Nationals.

While training, Yolanda met Thomas Heying from Germany. They later married. Yolanda moved to Guetersloh, Germany, to live with him. She was one of the few African Americans in the area. She quickly learned the local customs and was welcomed. She even helped introduce aerobics to gyms there. In 1992, she won the World Amateur championship. This win earned her a "pro card," meaning she could compete professionally.

Becoming a Professional

Yolanda became a very successful professional bodybuilder. In 1997 and 1998, she won the prestigious Ms. International competition. She also competed in six Ms. Olympia contests. Her best finish was second place in the 1998 Ms. Olympia. She was featured on the covers of popular magazines like Muscle And Fitness and Flex.

Retiring from the Sport

After placing third at the 1999 Ms. International, Yolanda decided to retire from bodybuilding.

Yolanda's Life Now

Yolanda now lives in Bellingham, Washington. In 2005, she opened her own training studio called Fitness Exotica.

Appearing in Movies

Yolanda had a small role in the 2002 movie Rollerball.

See also

In Spanish: Yolanda Hughes-Heying para niños