Interviewed by Jessica Dewey
Yessenia Martinez is a Cuban model currently residing in Miami. She has been a fitness instructor for 7 years and recently became a personal trainer. In 2020, she competed in her first modeling competition, “Miss Fashion Global” and placed top 5 in the fitness category. It was there that she met Victoria Henley of “America’s Next Top Model “and was invited to walk her first fashion runway show. Since then, she continues to work with new models, designers, and photographers as she expands her resume. In between shows, she is committed to her own health and fitness goals. It is her idea that, “all that we want, we can achieve, as long as we live each day as if it is already ours.” Fitness and fashion have always been her passion and are evident as part of her everyday life.
What inspired you to become a fitness instructor?
I was first inspired by amazing instructors that I met when I began going to the gym as a teenager, when I first became pregnant, and after becoming a mother. The role they played in my life inspired me to do the same for others.
How did you get into modeling? Was it something you always wanted to do?
I was first introduced to modeling as a child, but I never felt confident about pursuing it as I struggled with body image. I also believed modeling was only for a specific body type that I did not fit.
In 2020, I was teaching a lot of fitness classes and wanted to compete in a competition. I signed up for Miss Fashion Global in the fitness category with no expectations. It was here that I was reintroduced and drawn into the modeling industry. I met Victoria Henley at the competition, and she invited me to walk in a fashion show. Since then, it’s become a new passion.
What did it feel like walking in a Fashion Runway Show?
It felt nerve wracking at first. After the first few walks on the runway, the fear disappeared, and it became fun and exciting. It feels like a performance, and it’s a moment to be whoever you want to be in the outfit you are showcasing. The best part is being able to be inventive with your poses and facial expressions.
Any fitness tips you can share with our readers?
Set small, realistic goals. Stay consistent and create a routine that works for you.
Don’t compare yourself to anyone else because everyone has different body goals, capabilities, and limitations. Never skip abs or miss leg day. Lastly, change your mindset to see exercise as therapeutic rather than a chore
What are your 2022 goals?
My 2022 goals are developing my modeling experience and wellness company, Wellyess. I’m launching a fitness-wear line, Fityess, and I’m praying to see it on the runway this year.
How important do you think nutrition is to achieving your fitness goals?
It’s a hard truth, but without consideration of nutrition, fitness goals are hard to reach. Nutrition is 70-80 percent of meeting these goals. The important part is making nutritional adjustments that are tolerable and evidence based. Truly understanding why certain foods need to be included or excluded in relation to our health and goals is what makes the challenge of nutrition easier to overcome.
IG @yess.lamodelo @wellyess_co @itsyess.xo
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