Hello, I’m Heike Yates
As a single mom of two, I turned my passion for helping midlife women into two thriving businesses. Together, we focus on rediscovering health and strength, breaking free from limiting beliefs, and creating a supportive community of empowered women. Welcome to a space where midlife is your time to thrive—stronger, wiser, and more energized than ever.
From 9 – 5 To Living My Dream
Years ago, I was caught up in the 9-to-5 grind, feeling deep down that there had to be more. So, I took a leap of faith, packed up, and moved to Washington, D.C., chasing something better. That move changed everything.
Life shifted again when I became a mom. Parenthood was rewarding, but it brought its own challenges. I felt stuck, juggling life at home and wondering how to move forward.
Finding Fitness—and a New Purpose
In 1987, a friend introduced me to the fitness world, and I was hooked. It didn’t just transform my body—it gave me purpose and confidence. After my first pregnancy, I lost 50 pounds through consistent movement, proving what’s possible with commitment and self-belief.
Life as a Single Mom: Rebuilding from the Ground Up
When my kids were 4 and 8, I made the tough decision to get divorced. Suddenly, I was starting over, raising two children on just $300 a month. Fitness became my lifeline—a source of strength, resilience, and joy.
Creating Programs That Actually Work
In 2010, I developed Pilates with Resist-A-Ball, a joint-friendly, strength-focused program that helps people feel strong without pain. I created it to fill a gap I saw in traditional fitness.
I kept learning, earning certifications in Pilates, strength training, and nutrition. I even competed in bodybuilding and completed Ironman Triathlons. These experiences shaped me into a coach who truly understands the midlife journey.
Launching Pursue Your Spark
In 2012, I launched Pursue Your Spark—not just a business but a mission to help midlife women rediscover their strength, energy, and purpose. Watching women thrive and embrace what’s possible has been the most fulfilling part of my journey.
What I Believe About Midlife Wellness
If my story shows you anything, it’s this: Change is possible. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start. Wellness should be accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable. Small, consistent changes create big, lasting results.
I’m here to support you with the tools, knowledge, and encouragement to spark the transformation you deserve—one step at a time.
| Accredit with |
 |
“I love working with Heike! She’s always positive, gives excellent feedback, and is incredibly responsive to questions. She’s made a real difference in my fitness level. I work with her online, and even though we’ve never met in person, I know her! She keeps my workouts varied so I never get bored—challenging but not impossible—so I keep improving without getting frustrated. Heike is an amazing cheerleader. She always celebrates your wins and supports you through the tough times.”— Catherine J.
Outside of the studio…
I love the outdoors, and that’s where you will find me most of the time.
Spending time with my two kids makes my heart sing (even if they live on opposite sides of the world).
Becoming a first-time grandma is incredible, and I thought I was all cool about it.
I have been known to say, “Exercise is good for you.” (Okay…I say it a lot).
Eating healthy is essential to me, but I keep my ingredients to around 10 for each dish 😉
My positivity and energy are contagious.
Ready to take the first step?
Join me and discover how midlife wellness can be simple, joyful, and life-changing
Special Podcast Episode
Give me just 20 minutes, and I’ll show you how to finally “Get Unstuck and Thrive” in midlife. This episode isn’t available anywhere else! Learn why there’s a frustrating gap between where you are and where you want to be—and how to close it.
Reset Your Health In Midlife!
Discover 3 simple yet powerful ways to boost your energy and reset your health in midlife. Fit more movement easily into your day, practice effortless self-care, and build healthy habits that stick. Don’t wait to get unstuck and thrive in midlife.
Intermittent Fasting For Health!
Curious about intermittent fasting but unsure where to begin?
This free, beginner-friendly cheat sheet provides easy-to-follow steps for midlife women to start fasting confidently, eat smarter, and boost energy.