Heidi Fletcher narrowly missed the winner’s circle at both the 2006 and 2007 editions of the New York Pro Fitness Championships, placing second each time. This year, the 4-foot-11 Fletcher was determined to trash the bridesmaid dress and capture her first pro win at the same show. Criticized for being “too soft” at the 2007 Olympia and “too hard” at the West Palm Beach Pro two weeks later, Fletcher wisely chose not to request an invite to the Fitness International in order to focus on winning the show she’d come so close to in each of the previous two years. n Saturday night at the Tribeca Performing Arts at Manhattan Community College, Fletcher did exactly that.
Heidi turned pro at the 2005 National Bodybuilding & Fitness Championships by winning the Fitness Class A and overall titles. Two and a half years later, it appears she’s found the formula that the judges are looking for to fit her short, yet impressive frame. Flexonline caught up with Heidi after her first pro win to find out what changed in her off-season and what’s next.
FLEX:What did you change to your contest prep for this show compared to the West Palm Beach? Heidi Fletcher: I cut back my carbs a lot earlier than I normally would and I didn’t weight train as much as I have in the past. I also incorporated some diversity in my training the the kettlebell and Bosu.
FLEX: You told me you were nervous for the two minute routine… how did you calm the nerves before the show? Heidi: I am always nervous the first time that I am performing a new routine on stage. I’m not sure that my nerves were actually calm, but knowing that I was sitting in one of the top spots prior to the two minute definitely gave me drive to get out there and give it all that I had.
FLEX: How’s it feel to have a pro title to your resume? Heidi:It feels amazing. There was a lot of blood sweat and tears that went into preparing for this show. And having not put in for the Arnold in order to prepare for it, definitely made this victory that much more sweet.
FLEX: What’s the next show for you? Heidi: You will see me on stage in Houston!
NOTE: The 2008 Houston Pro show will be held on July 4-5, 2008 in Houston, Texas. For tickets and info call (281)778-5279.
