Yolanda Presswood

Name: Yolanda Presswood
Year of Birth: 1976
Height: 5'3
Weight: 115
Birthplace: Southern California
Current Residence: Southern California

Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
~I'm a full time stay at home/homeschool mama with a preteen daughter and a teenage son. An ISSA certified personal trainer, R.I.P.P.E.D certified instructor, holistic living enthusiast, Children's story writer, wife, daughter, and friend. My passions are educating on a plant based health/fitness lifestyle as well as living naturally and compassionately. I enjoy sharing my love for sports science with those who want to learn. Weight lifting, bodybuilding, and aerobic fitness.

Why did you become vegan?
~Returning to my roots..Consuming animal flesh was never something I felt good about. Now Im educated enough to KNOW why. Health and compassion.

When and why did you become interested in fitness?
~I think it was when I was in the womb. My parents were both bodybuilders. My mom and oldest brother both certified personal trainers. I was raised on carob balls, oatmeal, protein drinks, and iron. Its not what I do.. its WHO I am. At 32 is when I really began to know this is what I was born to do.. its my gift. Its what Im made for. In the summer of 2012 is when I honed in and went full speed with it. I saw some friends competing and thought..if they can do it.. so can I! Now Im a Clark's Nutritional Centers and Natural Foods Market sponsored athlete.. Ive been in FitnessX Magazine and will be competing in Austins Naturally Fit Super Show with plantbuilt.com in July!

How would you describe your nutrition program?
~I keep myself between competitions and photo shoots. I maintain year round..so I eat the same year round. Straight forward is how Id describe it.

How would you describe your training program?
~Off season hardcore. In season I ease up a bit for a softer look.

What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
~That were feeble,that its too hard,that vegans cant build muscle without animal flesh,and don't get enough protein or iron.

What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
~Look for recipes to replace your omnivore recipes..anything you can make with animal products..you can make without. Youre gonna have bad days so remember the good ones. Work hard, play hard. Don't EVER give up!

Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
~I want people to be inspired. Everyday is a gift. Take it as it comes. One day at a time, one breath, one moment. Swing with the ebb and the flow. Be joyful. Keep going. Move forward even when you've taken 25 steps back. Be positive. Don't listen to fear..its a lie! Nothing is impossible! Chase down your dreams! Don't listen to the nay sayers. Love much. Be open. Work harder than you think you can. Never stop pushing for what you can achieve! If you can dream you..you can do it..Go out and make it happen!
I BELIEVE IN YOU! <3