Tracy Pruitt: No Small Wonder on Figure Stage

All-Star Abs: Personal trainer and short class figure competitor Tracy Pruitt poses outside 2012 Jr. Nationals.

Coming in at just a notch under five feet tall, Tracy Pruitt may be small in stature, but measured against a string of top six and seven finishes in national level shows—last year’s North Americans, this year’s Jr. Nationals and Team Universe—suggests big things ahead for the already highly accomplished figure competitor. Good things do come in small packages.

Returning this past weekend from Team Universe in New Jersey to her home state of Texas, the 36-year-old was a little disappointed not bringing a trophy back to the Lone Star State. Nevertheless, she continues to bring an impressively polished look to the stage, and it could be only a few tweaks lie between securing hardware next time along with something even better—like a pro card. Pretty good considering she only began competing two years ago.

I caught up with Tracy to find out if she had any more dates marked on her calendar this season, but after back-to-back shows, she’s due for a break. “I am taking the rest of the year off to rest my body and enjoy my life,” she said, adding that off season plans include emphasis on shoulders, back and legs. She’ll definitely be one to watch in 2013.

Tracy notes shoulders and back on a list of favorite bodyparts to train. Not to be overlooked, the adorable blue-eyed, blonde’s physique is highlighted by striking upperbody development (bicep peaks, anyone?) and some of the most finely chiseled abs in the business. Tracy, with a knowing wink, compared her small, steely frame to a brickhouse. “I am pretty strong for my size,” she said, “people are amazed that I am only 100lbs on stage and all of 4-foot-10½.”

A softball and tennis player growing up, Tracy fell in love with the fitness lifestyle while in college. She earned multiple certifications—personal trainer, nutrition specialist, aerobics instructor, group exercise leader—worked at Gold’s Gym during the summer, and graduated with a degree in Kinesiology from Stephen F. Austin University. She offers everything from healthy eating tips to individualized training programs through her website, “I’m in the process of updating my website with new pics and a new look,” she said, “so that will be coming soon!”