Yolanda Smith AKA “Iron Lady”
NFF Women’s Physique Pro Athlete
Earned Pro status: 2014 Texas State Naturals
Pro Debut: 2015 NFF Super Show
Tell us a little about yourself
49 years old, Native Houstonian Houston, Texas I am a mother of two adult children. I am a former track runner, a professional bodybuilder and a lifelong fitness enthusiast. While I have always been in and around a gym as a; Certified Personal Trainer, Kickboxing Instructor, Body-Pump Instructor, Group Fitness Instructor, and a Licensed 2nd responder in Aquatics I have never trained on this level. I currently hold a Professional Body Building Title in WNBF, NFF, GBO and PNBA federations. I am a graduate of University of Phoenix with a BS/BM degree 2004-2008, and I am also a graduate of Willowridge High School c/o 1987. What motivates me every day to get up and train is the fact that when I blog about my daily experiences as a competitor as well as my “Real Life” experiences, I know that I am motivating and inspiring someone to be healthier. I suffered from anorexia throughout my childhood into my early adult hood because I was fearful of being overweight. Through much prayer, consistency, and determination I turned my life around and decided to do it the right way of proper dieting and exercising.
How did you get started with bodybuilding?
I was introduced to body building by Todd Rogers. He noticed my love and enthusiasm for health, wellness, and the gym and thought it would be a perfect fit for my current lifestyle. My first competition was in in 2011.
Where does your motivation come from? 
My motivation comes from the ability to defy nature. Being 49 years old and over coming bad learned behaviors to now teach new healthy behaviors to other women. I start my days off early with daily inspirational posts linking positive thinking and staying active, by letting women know that they have the ability to get their health back.
What are some of your greatest achievements?
Earning my pro status, competing in Natural Olympia 2016, being featured in a 3 different fitness articles, being sponsored by corporate job to travel to compete, held a pro status in 5 different federations, and being my two adult children biggest inspiration in letting them know all things are possible.
What is your current training philosophy?
My training philosophy is to train not only for the stage, but to in fact train for life.
What are 3 tips you would give to someone trying to reach their goal physique?
My 3 tips will be to remain true to the process, be patient, and work very hard.
What is your diet like? And does it differ on-season v. off-season?
My diet when I am not competing is 90% healthy which is different during on-season. I am naturally tall and lean. I find it very difficult to hold muscle so it is important for me to be very strict during on season.
When trying to cut down what type of cardio do you do and why?
When cutting down I typically stick with HIIT in the mornings and stairmaster or incline walks in the evenings.
What is your next goal?
My next goal is to win first place as a Pro!
What’s your Favorite Quote?
My favorite quote is, “Train Insane or Remain the Same!”
Learn more about Yolanda-
Instagram: @wnbfpro_yolanda1968
Facebook: Yolanda Smith
Coach/Trainer Shout Out- ODF Lab
