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  • Legacy Profiles

    Older profile pages of vegan athletes & models, from the original Vegan Bodybuilding & Fitness website.
    Guest

    Jahari Jackson

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Jahari Jackson
    Year of Birth: 7/24/80
    Height: 5'9
    Weight: 166
    Birthplace: los angeles, Ca
    Current Residence: Wrightsville, Ga
    Sports: Cardio training, Yoga, Bodyweight training
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have
    Well as of now I'm a self-employed personal trainer for issa and I'm enjoying it. I enjoy all types of cardio training, mostly stuff I see others do and recreating it in my mind. After doing and watching Insanity Fast and Furious three times, I've learnt how to do it on my own in my head and do it three times a week, along with other cardio training and body weight training. It's my passion and I love/enjoy it.

    Why did you become vegan?
    I became vegan on april 16 2012 after I celebrated my one year anniversary of being vegetarian. It just felt right so I just said, "sure why not?" and took the next step, and it wasn't hard at all. It's one of the best decisions I have made so far in 2012 and don't plan on turning back.


    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I can't remember exactly but I have been working out on and off since 1995 but staying on top of it since 2007 when I just started jogging and before too long I was doing cardio training and fitness on a weekly basis.
    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    Don't really have one but after drinking Shakeogoly for about one year I switched to Vega shakes and they are the best I have ever tasted. I still drink the vegan Shakeogoly along with Vega and enjoy them both. I also eat mostly green salads like spinach and kale. Other foods cabbage, veggie sandwich, green shakes, onion and garlic soup and a lot of other stuff that will take up this whole page! lol
    How would you describe your training program?
    My training programs depends on the day. Like if it's Friday or Sunday I run for 10 mins, then I jog, stairs, sprints, stairs again, jog, and finally run back home all in that order. Do different dvd workouts, HIIT training, and some workouts I have created. On days I don't do cardio I do bodyweight training. I stopped lifting weights because I have seen more improvemnets doing bodyweight training than weight training.




    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    I don't take anything bout vegan Shakeology and Vega!

    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    Not to many people know but everyone is cool with it, and they do ask me "how do you do it?" All I say is "one day at a time".

    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    Can't think of any right now but I will say just because you're vegan it doesn't mean you can't get everything your body requires all in one day. As for me I try to get all the protien and everything else my body requires but sometimes I don't - so I do what I can and go on from there. Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others? If so, how did you go about it?
    When people find out that I was vegetarian they ask me questions and some asked if it was safe and how to get into it. I told them to take it slow crawl before you walk and ask your doctor. I also tell them to look online on certin websites that tell you all about how to become vegetarian. But mainly I tell them to start slow before they even think about becoming vegan.

    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    Safety is my first aspect. I always stretch and warm up before I do any kind of training so I can prevent injury. Set a reasonable goal to reach and go from there.

    What do you like best about being vegan?
    No dairy, no meat and healthy clean living! Can't change the world, but I hardly ever go out to eat anymore, I rather just make my own food.


    What do you like best about being fit?
    Watching my body transform in a natural way. Without taking any thing to help me. I also love the fact I can take my body to another level!

    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    Always talk with your doctor. If you have never trained before in your life, If you can, get a trainer, or a workout buddy who has been training for some time. Enjoy it, have fun, be happy and remember training of all kinds is not a job but adventure!

    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Like I always say life's not hard unless you make it hard! So do a little research, take small steps because the last thing you want to do is be a meat eater one day and go cold turkey the next because your body will go into shock! Before I even became vegetarian I tried doing that and I didn't last 5 hours. But I did more reasearch and months later I took small steps to become vegetarian and after a year later i'm vegan.




    What motivates you in life?
    As a personal trainer I enjoy helping people reach their goals. and I enjoy taking my body to a whole new level of traning. Just when i feel like giving up I think back to Shaun T in the Insanity dvds and I hear the voice saying "dig deep!" and I push myself to the next level. Also the fact I can do anything if I try hard enough and not giving up. What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    I love it, in fact after I create my first website I plan to post it on there and I already spread the word! I love this site more than bodybuilding.com

    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    Live long, stay strong, stay fit!
    Guest

    James Dean

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: James Dean
    Year of Birth: 1986
    Height: 5' 11
    Weight: 180
    Birthplace: Chatham, Kent, England
    Sports: Strength & endurance
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have
    Whilst studying to obtain my BA degree in English I followed my interest in films which led me to become a film and TV extra from 2006 to present. I have been in numerous productions ranging from movies like Harry Potter to many TV productions.
    I continued my education and obtained a Master's degree in American and English Literature, and became qualified in journalism. However, my love of fitness has taken my in a different direction and I have now become a qualified Fitness Instructor.
    I got into travelling relatively late in life. I have always had a large admiration for America (part of the reason I wanted to specialize in American Literature). It was always my goal to visit the U.S. above any other country but I visited some of Europe first. However, when I finally did get the opportunity to travel to America for the first time I can honestly say that it exceeded my expectations. From the country, to the people and it's unique sights (I am big fan of theme parks, especially Disney World, Disneyland and the Universal Studios Parks) it is by far my favourite location in the world and I am always looking for my next opportunity to visit again.

    I'm a big music fan and a huge gamer but these are topics too large to list here!


    Why did you become vegan?
    I have always been lucky to grow up with a large variety of animals who were never pets, but family members. I initially became a vegetarian in April 1993 after staying up one night with my cat who died of old age. Needless to say this had a profound effect on me. After my cat died I saw that this family member was no different to meat to some people. The idea of this disgusted me and I instantly stopped eating meat.

    Many times I have been told that humans evolved on eating meat and should carry on. To me this falsity is the complete opposite of the truth. When humans evolved they were more base creatures. Now we have the alternatives to meat readily available and the freedom of choice as well as plenty of evidence to prove that not only do we not need to eat meat but our health will benefit as a result. This is why I 'evolved' from vegetarian to vegan in early 2012.
    To me there are 2 basic facts of a meat free diet:
    - Animal welfare must come above all else. People worry about human rights but animals do not get a look in for most people. Animals are much more natural and purer creatures than humans. Human require a negative ego — shown through materialism, animals do not. If humans lost the ego, they would lose much of the evil in the world. Therefore why would I eat something better than my race?
    - A plant based diet is a progressive diet. As soon as an animal (or human dies) their rate of deterioration is much faster than plants. If you eat meat you eat rotting flesh, if you eat a seed, you eat the potential for growth i.e. a seed can turn into a tree, dead meat will just rot.


    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    My interest in fitness is probably a result of my childhood. I was always influenced by physique characters, whether fictional or real. Some of these early influences were; WWF (in particular Ultimate Warrior and Rick Rude), films (e.g. the Rambo and Conan), as well as many comic book characters like Batman, Spider-Man and the Hulk. My dad, a former wrestler in his 20s, was always interested in the strength side of training and had his own gym equipment in the garage that he would use 4 times a week.
    As I have gotten older I have seen the health benefits of fitness and believe that without fitness you can never lead a full life. While at university I put on a lot of unhealthy weight. Upon realising this I immediately set out to correct this. In 5 months I went from 207lbs down to 147lbs using a strict diet and an exercise bike at home. As a result, I wanted to get into the fitness industry to help others reach their physical potential too.
    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    My nutrition is based around legumes, lentils, soya milk and seeds. These foods alone give me an extremely high protein content which is fortunate as in the U.K. there is a lack of vegan protein drinks and the ones that are available are expensive. Although since turning vegan this was an inconvenience at first it became an advantage as it has forced me to find more natural, whole food alternatives to supplements.

    Since being a vegetarian from the age of 5 and therefore being meat free throughout my formative years I can confidently say that meat is not needed to build muscle and strength. However, since becoming vegan I have found getting leaner a lot easier as I have not had the temptations of many of the foods that put bad weight on. Another advantage of my vegan diet is the increase in fibre. I now see that even as a vegetarian my fibre content was not as high as I would have liked but my transition into a vegan diet has corrected this.

    Even now I am still learning new ways to improve my diet which gives me a good sense of progression and helps me get the results I want.


    How would you describe your training program?
    I generally stick to a regime of at least 6 days of weights a week, spending a day on chest, arms, back and legs. My workouts are always high volume and I try to stick to doing as much weight with as good form as possible. Minimal resting is a must. For cardio I like to use the cross trainer or bike, using a strict HIIT method. My current goal, as always, is to try to put on more good mass and reducing fat.
    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    A multivitamin but generally vegan supplements are too expensive in the UK!
    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    People are always shocked and either ignore it or begin telling me how unhealthy it is. This is particularly amusing for me at the gym!
    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    There are far too many of these to go through. The obvious being the protein deficiency but this matter has already been disproved so many times by science, this site and all the healthy meat- free people walking around today.
    The aspect of meat eaters who oppose plant based eaters that I find the most ridiculous is the fact they think they are right without any facts. The evolution argument is completely void. I was once told that humans are meant to eat meat because that's what their teeth are designed for. Last time I looked our teeth are closer to an herbivore like a horse than a carnivorous tiger.

    It's funny to me that these dietary experts base their knowledge on the meat industries propaganda. This site alone is proof enough to dispel the myth of non-meat eaters being weak or that plant protein isn't as effective as animal protein. What they do choose to overlook is the lack of saturated fat (leading to coronary heart disease and high cholesterol levels) a meat diet contains that a plant based diet lacks.

    Another misconception is that all vegans/vegetarians are weak, passive, hippies. Firstly, I find it ignorant that people use these things as a negative slur but it is completely untrue. I have known people who do not let people know they do not eat meat because they do not want to be seen in this way. Being meat free is something that everyone is capable of being and should not be something that continues to be viewed negatively as it is by a worryingly large amount of people.


    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    Staying consistent and never taking short cuts.
    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    1- If you are switching to a vegan diet, make sure you replace the calories you lose by taking animal products out.
    2- Master different aspects such as form before jumping to advanced techniques. Don't try to do everything at once.
    3- Research everything and take advice from people who have had results.
    4- Don't let peer pressure affect your workouts. Do your research, so you do what you know
    is right, not what the current fad is or what other misinformed people try to tell you to do, particularly regarding your diet.
    5- Keep a progress journal. Results are the greatest motivation.

    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Make sure you replace the food you take out and you will reap the rewards of the change, from the physical benefits to your improved spiritual wellbeing.
    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    It is a great site! There is a wealth of knowledge on here from people who have actually done it themselves. I have a great respect for Robert Cheeke in particular, for starting the site and being a vegan for purely ethical reasons.
    Guest

    James Hatchel

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: James Hatchel
    Year of Birth: 1984
    Height: 6'0
    Weight: 205
    Birthplace: South Carolina
    Current Residence: Atlanta
    Website(s): www.goefitness.com
    E-mail: [email protected]

    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have
    I am a personal trainer and a full time student. I use an explosive training philosophy to jar my clients out of their fitness plateaus and accelerate there fitness progress. I have recently taken my conceptual and experiential knowledge to the World Wide Web and started a web based personal training company that will allow me to help clients all over the world. The ability to facilitate someone realizing a goal as preeminent as fitness is amazing to me. Body image controls the way we walk, dress, and acting in social environments. Being trainer allows me to show a client exactly what they need to do in order to feel great all the time. As a student I am taking the prerequisites to go to Physician Assistant School. My favorite thing to do when I'm not training or studying would be to go to the movies.


    Why did you become vegan?
    It's funny since I was about twenty two I would say that once I reached about fifty I would give up meat. I had a sense that with all the health conditions that arise after fifty, not eating meat would probably help increase my longevity. As a competitive bodybuilder during 2012 I ate massive amounts of meat daily. At my peak I was consuming at least one pound of beef, one pound of tilapia, and one pound of chicken every day. As the year came to an end and I decided to focus on my career I wanted to become more of a well-rounded fitness professional but that would be hard at the two hundred and sixty five pound massive man that I had developed into. So January 2013 I was in the gym lifting weights and I ran into friend that I knew from a gym I worked at back in 2010. As we were talking he was telling me about his son playing football at University of Georgia and he had become a VEGAN. My first question was did he lose any strength or muscle mass. His reply was no. Two weeks later I was vegan. I went raw for the month of February and have been a vegan ever since.
    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    Fitness has been a key element of my life since I was a child. Being a military brat my father groomed me to appreciate the aspect of being fit at least doing pushups and sit ups daily. Once I went to high school and enrolled in weight lifting class a freshman I was hooked. I read flex magazines daily.
    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    My nutrition plan is different to say the least. My breakfast consists of sun warrior protein powder and psyhillium husk. I snack on cereal all day while I am on the go. It is usually fiber one or special K. My lunch and dinner are about the same. I have two cup of beans, three cups of kale or spinach and a sweet potato. I utilize almost every bean variety known to man. My favorite is pinto beans. My last meal to help sustain my mass is a hearty peanut butter sandwich made with Ezekiel bread. The main thing I try to avoid is the silent dairy in foods especially when you eat out.


    How would you describe your training program?
    As an extremely busy person I have reduced my workout time down to thirty minutes four times a week. Basically what I do is a 10 min run to warm up then do interval training with free weights for twenty minutes for time. For instance on a biceps and triceps day I will do barbell curls for a min then rest thirty second then do diamond pushups for a min then rest for thirty seconds and I will do this until I have done ten exercises. With this training regimen I have reduced my body fat and increased my arm size by a half an inch. The one thing that I don't do that almost anyone in a gym is doing at all times is I don't count my reps. I work until the work is done.
    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    To make sure my muscle function is optimal I supplement with Sun warrior protein. I also take B-12 to for energy on long days.

    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    Most people say,”but you eat fish right” to which I say if it ever mooed, fly, walked, or swam me don't eat it. Then the question about protein consumption and necessity arise. The next comment almost always happens, “well there's no way I could do that”. Then I say, “When you are ready, you will be surprised at what you are capable of”.
    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    The biggest misconception that I see is that being a vegan means that you will be skinny. Your body will respond to the number of calories and type of activity accordingly.

    Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others? If so, how did you go about it?
    I have had success with people that were ready for change. A couple of my clients on line and in person have made the switch as well as some of my class mates. Most of the converting just happened because they wanted to know how I exercise two hours a week and am continually improving the aesthetic appeal of my muscles.
    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    The most important aspect of training is consistency. Without consistency the best exercise prescription in the world will not help.


    What do you like best about being vegan?
    The best thing about being a vegan is that I feel healthier than ever. The food is filling without being calorically dense is also a nice plus.

    What do you like best about being fit?
    The best thing about being fit is being an example to others as a living testimony that it is possible to be fit and not live in the gym or eat disgusting food.

    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    The best advice in the world is to start slow and progress daily. Too often enthusiasm meets extreme soreness and soreness wins because the person has not been active long enough for it to be a habit. By starting slow the pain of progress will match your experience level so your growth won't be stifled.

    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    The only advice is why not try it. If you don't like it there is no contract. You won't be banned from the meat section of the store. A couple days will tell if the lifestyle change is for you.
    What motivates you in life?
    My biggest motivation in life is to help improve as many lives as possible through health, knowledge, and fitness. While pursuing this passion I have the opportunity to learn in order to teach. The acquisition of knowledge also drives me. This knowledge is not for me, it is for the people that I have the great pleasure of reaching every day.

    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    Veganbodybuilding.com is awesome. It has great products for active vegans all in one place. Secondly gives faces to these products by allowing people like me to share their story.
    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    Live everyday as if it is your last and you will never wake up with regrets.
    Guest

    Javier AKA Rain

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Javier AKA “Rain”
    Year of Birth: 1978
    Height: 5'7”
    Weight: 140
    Birthplace: Madrid, Spain
    Current Residence: Washington D.C.
    Sports: Parkour, Breakdancing, Calisthen-X, Strength Workouts
    Website: GorillaFit.wordpress.com
    Youtube: youtube.com/user/TeamGorillaFit
    My Gym: UrbanEvo.com
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have?
    Breakdancing is one of the most spiritual and best things I ever got into. It is a major stress reliever and clears the mind. Music can do amazing things. I teach classes at gym called Urban Evolution (www.urbanevo.com). Here I share all that I learn with students helping them build confidence in themselves through breakdancing.
    I picked up Parkour a few years back and it has shown me a primitive form of movement that I feel is just what my body needs. I recommend people sign up for a parkour class or meet-up. If they get the chance to try it they will love it.
    I was selected to break for the Washington Wizards (NBA) during the game timeouts. I did many shows breaking for Hip Hop artists, at major DJ festivals, and at other venues. I competed in breaking in Europe and here in the US in National Competitions. I was also featured in a Washington Post article about breaking. I consider myself a student of breaking and parkour, always happy to learn more.
    I have started my own personal brand called “GORILLAFIT”, and formed a breaking crew called “ICEBREAKERS” at the gym Urban Evolution; I work there part time.


    Why did you become vegan?
    Nutrition got me to learn a lot about better eating and health but the animals sealed the deal. Just like Neo in the movie “The Matrix” it really allowed me for the first time to be aware of what really is going on in this world. I think more of us should be more awake and not caught behind mainstream routines and influences. We should all think a bit more.
    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I took to fitness as a child, playing on various sports teams.) I never was the best at vary many things. Just about average in most but since I became vegan my energy has exploded. And now I just feel the need to excel in what I do. My diet really helped that and change my awareness.
    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    90 Percent Whole foods, 10 percent processed (just a rough estimate). I am a work in progress J.


    How would you describe your training program?
    Hardcore. I try to get stronger every day. I don't like light workouts. Too much energy built up for that, I got to spend it somehow! I like a challenge and I like to be pushed. My training is made up entirely of bodyweight exercises.
    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    I'll supplement B12 if I am not taking nutritional yeast. Occasionally but not often I'll use VEGA products or Amazing Grass (this is food to me not a supplement). I don't take protein powders.
    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    They are often defensive or amazed. I think a lot of people are out to justify their bad habits or justify why they need to keep eating animal foods. We all have excuses but veganism is really easy. I don't see what is so hard about it and I was a huge fast food eater prior to going vegan and never vegetarian. I hated vegetables for 29 years of my life so if I can make the change, anyone can.


    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    We are weak, unhealthy and hippie like. Many of us are not at all hippie-like. Also we are told that we are deficient in every nutrient known to man. I think this is probably the biggest misconception. We actually often rely on less supplementation and medications.
    Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others?
    If so, how did you go about it? Yes, I've been extremely successful. I think more people are on their way to veganism because I showed them how great it was and how easy.

    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    Staying motivated and being consistent. It helps to break things down into small parts as well.
    What do you like best about being vegan?
    Being a part of the great and diverse community of people! The way my animal free diet makes me feel and how energized I am. It is also great knowing that animals will not be part of my meal, personal care products, and clothing. Veganism to me is not about diet but it is a plus.


    What do you like best about being fit?
    Motivating others to get fit and setting the example. I feel it is my responsibility to my friends and family to stay healthy.
    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    Stick to it, find what you love, and never give up even when things get tough.
    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    If you pay attention and do it right it is extremely rewarding and easy. Best thing you willever do.
    What motivates you in life?
    There are many people around me daily that motivate me from other vegans, people at my gym, Damien Walters (check him out on youtube), Rich Roll (ultra endurance athlete) and more. Learning by far is my biggest motivator. I love learnin new things. I love sharing knowledge with others and helping them be more aware.


    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    I started my journey here. It let me see really fit athletes and strong people who motivated me to stick with it. It really kept me on the right track and allowed me to meet amazing people which I still see till today.
    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    Find someone who is doing veganism right and follow their footsteps. I find too many people who say veganism did not work for them. In many cases this is because they never learned to do it right or because they had addictions to animal foods so they felt they need an excuse to return to their animal filled ways. If you follow a vegan lifestyle and read up on how to do it right there is no reason in the world I can see for being unhealthy and feeling like you need to go back. That to me is weakness. I actually believe the opposite is true. You feel so amazing you would be crazy to go back.
    As for training, train with the best and you will keep improving. I just want to say thanks, to Veganbodybuilding and everyone in its community, and everyone along the way! You guys Rock!
    Guest

    Jeff Golfman

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Jeff Golfman
    Year of Birth: 1968
    Height: 5'9”
    Weight: 141
    Birthplace: Vancouver, Canada
    Current Residence: n/a
    Sports: Running
    Website: www.thecoolvegetarian.com
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have
    Eco entrepreneur for last 24 years
    Why did you become vegan?
    Had chronic fatigue and went vegetarian 22 years ago, vegan 15 years ago and 100% raw vegan 7 years ago
    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    Wanted more energy, health & vitality


    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    Low fat, Sugar, oil, salt free raw vegan
    How would you describe your training program?
    I am not an elite runner and will likely never be. My goal is to be fit & healthy and for that I run 5-6 times per week for aprox 160 kilometers per month. I do daily yoga and leg and upper body strength training 1-2 per week
    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    b-12, probiotics, adrenal support, greens
    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    Positively
    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    Protein needs, strength, coolness and toughness
    Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others? If so, how did you go about it?
    yes plenty on my blog site The Cool Vegetarian


    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    Consistency, rest/recovery, nutrition, attitude
    What do you like best about being vegan?
    Health for me the planet and the animals
    What do you like best about being fit?
    Energy and strength to make it through my days and reduced stress load
    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    Be consistent and start slow with attainable goals
    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Transition slowly.
    What motivates you in life?
    To create positive change on the planet


    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    VBB has inspired me to get in better shape and motivated to achieve my running goals. Robert's recent interviews on my blog site has inspired me even further.
    Personal bests:
    1 mile 5:54
    5 K 19:58
    10k 44:44

    Half Marathon: 13.1 miles 1:41:00
    Guest

    Jennifer Moore

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Jennifer Moore
    Year of Birth: 1975
    Height: 5'3”
    Weight: 115
    Birthplace: Cleveland, MS
    Current Residence: Las Vegas, NV-moving in June to Memphis, TN
    Sports: Running, Weight Training for Figure.

    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have:
    I am a Registered Dietitian and NSCA Certified Personal Trainer. I attained my undergraduate degree from Mississippi State University. I interned in nutrition at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. My Master's degree is also in nutrition from Central Michigan University. I am currently pursuing a doctorate in Epidemiology/Public Health from Capella University.

    I work for Cigna Healthcare as a Health Advisor. I have the privilege of assessing and coaching at risk Cigna customers on hyperlipidemia, hypertension, prevention, prediabetes, healthy eating, physical activity.
    Hobbies include running half marathons, training and competing in Figure Competitions, vegetarian cooking, travel, and reading.
    I love my job, educational pursuits, and hobbies, but my family is the most fun aspect of my life. I am the proud wife of Chad, a man who has served our United States Air Force for 20 years. My four babies, Sam (10), Hannah (9), Nate (7), and Steven (1) make me smile. They inspire me to strive for excellence and to always be an example to them.




    Why did you become vegan?
    Originally from the Mississippi delta, it never occurred to me, growing up, to not eat meat. Everyone eats meat in the deep-south; usually deep fried. While interning at Vanderbilt, one of my preceptors taught a class on vegetarian nutrition and encouraged us to read Diet for a New America by John Robbins. I did and it changed my life. I phased in and out of being vegetarian, but after the birth of my third child and after reading The China Study I went all in. When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I have been interested in fitness since I was a little girl. We lived in an old southern home with long halls and tall ceilings. Treadmills were not common in the late 70s early 80s, so my mom ran 5 miles a day inside our house down the long halls because we were little and she could not leave us. She did arm and chest exercises on the piano bench in our formal living room. She inspired me for life.




    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    Whole food plant based. I juice daily; romaine lettuce, beets, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and 1 apple. This represents my favorite part of my nutrition plan. It refreshes me every morning, pure nutrients! I also try to include at least 1 smoothie per day that includes raw spinach, SunWarrior protein, and almond milk. Before workouts I always have a banana with peanut butter. This stabilizes my blood glucose better than anything else I have tried. I typically have 1 large salad per day for the nutrients from the raw vegetables. Protein sources include meat replacers, tofu and beans. Here are some of my favorite products:
    Annie's salad dressings (lite honey mustard vinaigrette, sesame shitake)
    Gardein products
    Lauren Scudder's natural peanut butter
    Organics or Wildwood brand tofu
    Almond Breeze unsweetened almond milk
    Mrs. Dash
    Daiya vegan cheese

    How would you describe your training program?
    Even though I am a trainer, I work with a trainer. She pushes me. I lift 4 to 6 days per week. Cardio consists of step mills, stair-masters, stationary bike, and my favorite, outdoor running.



    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    I believe in obtaining nutrients from food first! Second, I take vitamin D as deficiencies are so common lately. I also take a vegan omega 3, multivitamin, vegan probiotics, and Sun Warrior protein powder. These change a bit before competition.

    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    It depends on where I am at the time. In Las Vegas it is totally common. In the south they ask, now what country is that?? Vegan?? Actually, when people in the south see that I have 4 children and returned to my healthy weight...with muscles...they want to know what I do. When I say “vegan”, they have a hard time arguing with visible results.

    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    Common misconceptions that I have seen are that we are “tree huggers” or weak or unintelligent. I may be a bit of a tree hugger but far from weak or unintelligent.

    Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others? If so, how did you go about it?
    Yes, my profession and personal results attract people to me for questions. I always give advice that is backed by research. I was trained that way. However, that is an easy task. The literature strongly backs plant based nutrition.



    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    Concentration, focus.

    What do you like best about being vegan?
    I feel peaceful that I am not hurting the planet or other living beings. It completely aligns with my religious beliefs. I am a Christian. Also, I like being lean and I stay that way as a vegan.

    What do you like best about being fit?
    I love the energy and strength I feel that doesn't fade as I get older. My children are so proud of me as well, especially my daughter. I remember looking at my mother with admiration, knowing she ran 5 miles per day, lifted weights, and played tennis. I like seeing my little girl feel the same way about me. My husband thinks I am hot too; love that!

    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    Be consistent!



    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Study the lifestyle. This will help you to understand why it is important. If you do not have a clear vision of the why, you may not stick with it. Treat it like a hobby. Eat enough to remain full. Even a vegan diet can be unhealthy. Do not eat a vegan junk food diet. That is why I prefer the term Whole Food Plant Based.

    What motivates you in life?
    My relationship with Jesus Christ and my family.

    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    When I decided to compete, I needed to know it could be accomplished with plant based nutrition. I bought and read Robert's book and visited the website for inspiration. Thank you for the guidance and motivation!

    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    To all the moms, want to be moms, and soon to be moms out there, having children does not ruin your body. Exercise and eat healthy when you are pregnant. Get back to it as soon as possible after the baby is born. Invest in a jogger stroller, treadmill, or gym membership with child care. You will feel more energetic and confident. Not to mention you will be a positive role-model for your children.
    Guest

    Jennifer Nicol

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Jennifer Nicol
    Age: 34
    Height: 5'6”
    Weight: 140 lbs.
    Birthplace: Canada
    Current Residence: Toronto, Canada
    Sports: Weight Training, Core Fitness Training, Stretch and Yoga practice, Spinning, Cycling, Short distance Runner (5-8km), Participant in Charity Runs.
    Why did you become Vegan?
    My choice to become a vegan was very easy. Once I had researched the pros and cons of the vegan diet, the scientific research made the decision for me! I had been vegetarian on and off for years and always wondered if I could make the full crossover into living on a diet that contained no animal by-products. Ultimately, I made the decision after reading enough supporting data from a multitude of sources. I am confident the only way to live a healthy, strong and disease—free existence is on a vegan diet.
    When did you become interested in Fitness?
    I have been interested in fitness since I was a teenager. I was the first out all of my friends to have a gym membership. My body type is not petite, I have big bones and big muscle mass. I learned years ago that if I don't constantly work my muscles, my body does not look or feel its best.


    How would you describe your Nutrition Program?
    When describing my nutrition program, one thing I say a lot is “The Choice is always WHOLE, FRESH and SIMPLE!” The phrase says it all. I limit processed vegan food items such as patties, baked goods, yogurts and cheeses. Processed foods often contain an abundance of chemicals and high levels of salt and refined sugars. By choosing WHOLE, FRESH and SIMPLE foods, there is no need to worry about spiking salt and sugar levels.
    On a daily basis, I try to keep my carbohydrate and caloric intake within a certain range but I do NOT count calories or stress about a low-carb diet. I choose WHOLE foods that offer maximum nutrition with little to no excess. I regularly treat myself to raw and/or unprocessed desserts and purchase certified organic foods whenever possible.
    How would you describe your Training program?
    My training program is all about blood flowing through the muscles on a daily basis. I enjoy attending fitness classes and having my workouts at the gym whenever possible. However, when the weather is nice or I can't get to the gym, I train outside, at home, or on the go.
    When at home I use my yoga mat, skipping rope and dumbbells to complete a total body blast full of crunches, squats, burpees, push-ups, curls and more. When traveling, I search out fitness tools like accessible stairs to climb or a nearby park that I can run in.
    If none of the above is possible, I make sure to stretch often and walk rapidly throughout the entire day, everywhere possible. Being fit is a constant commitment to the muscles that you have worked hard to build.


    What kind of supplements do you use if any?
    I take vitamin B12 every day. This is the most important vitamin supplement. Other supplements I use are in the form of vegan protein powders or bars. Again, the key is in the ingredients. I keep it SIMPLE.
    What are some of the common misconceptions about Veganism?
    People have this idea that someone who follows a vegan diet is weak and has an extreme diet to maintain. This is the total opposite of what a vegan diet brings to one's life. A plant-based diet consists of nutrient-packed fruits and vegetables, beans, grains, seeds, nuts and other whole foods. It is not complicated.
    What do you think the most important aspect of fitness is?
    By far, the most important aspect of fitness is hard work. Anyone can achieve a fit body with dedication and hard work. There is no magic pill or quick fix; fitness is a life-long commitment that offers the biggest rewards.
    What do you like best about being Vegan?
    The best part of being vegan is knowing that everything I eat is clean and free of unnecessary additives.


    What are your strengths as an athlete?
    I am a strong cyclist and swimmer.
    What advice do you have for Vegan athletes who are just starting out?
    Nutrition is the key to exceeding fitness goals. Be good to yourself throughout the entire day, not just after a workout. When the body has more muscle mass it needs more fuel, more often! Eat frequently and always keep protein bars that are made from whole, simple foods with you.
    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming Vegan?
    If you're thinking of becoming vegan, do it! You will be amazed by how much stronger your body feels. Begin by introducing vegan foods into your diet at your own pace. It is a lifestyle change that has incredible health benefits.


    What motivates you to continue to be a successful vegan athlete?
    Results motivate me.
    How has the website www.veganbodybuilding.com helped or inspired you?
    The website is an excellent source of trusted information within the vegan fitness community. I am truly inspired and humbled by all of the incredible people who have achieved their outstanding physiques through hard work and a vegan diet.

    For more information about Jennifer, go to her blog at
    http://www.jennynatural.blogspot.com/
    Or follow her on Twitter:
    http://www.twitter.com/JennyNatural
    Guest

    Jeremy Moore

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Jeremy Moore
    Age: 24
    Height: 6'1”
    Weight: 200lbs
    Birthplace: Portsmouth, VA
    Current Residence: Pasadena, MD
    Sports: Cycling

    Why did you become vegan?

    While volunteering at the PSPCA(Philly) I saw piles of dogs, and cats euthanized thanks to human desires. After seeing that I realized I was causing numerous animals to be killed just for me and I was being equally as bad. Once I realized how much harm I was doing to animals simply by living on a normal omnivore's diet I made the change. It only took about 2 weeks of being vegetarian for me to realize that the dairy and dozen egg whites I ate every day made up for the meat I was eating so I went vegan very quickly after becoming a vegetarian.




    When and why did you become interested in fitness?

    I've been playing sports ever since I was 7 and it has always consumed my whole life. At first I just did it because my brother and sister played sports and pretty early in my life I realized it was something I wanted to do and I put everything else on the back burner. Nothing motivates me better than failing to meet my potential and I've taken a liking to sports that I'm not too good at when I start them. Football is the one sport I was good at right away and I could only stand one season for that very reason.

    How would you describe your nutrition program?

    I try my best to eat as many whole foods as I can. In the summer I tend to eat large amounts of fruit, normally starting with a large smoothie before my morning training session and often a smaller one soon after. In the winter I begin to add more rice/grains and veggies to my diet, but I make sure fruit is a large portion of what I eat at all times. I try not to eat too much bread and pasta, and when I do it tends to be minimally processed. When I'm being really good about my diet I also try my best to eat as little protein as possible to try to break my muscles down and not allow them to build back up again.

    How would you describe your training program?

    My training program is pretty intense. In the winter months I do as much mileage as my schedule allows me. This means a few 4-5hour bike rides a week, with 3-5 3 hour rides per week. These rides tend to be very low in intensity and hurt my bottom more than my muscles. Once spring comes around I keep most of the riding to 3 hours but I add in some cross training for a few weeks. This may mean 1hour of jumping rope after a ride, or a 45 minute run. I often don't ride with others because my intensity level leads me to get very dizzy and I often can't control my bike very well so I don't push it as hard in group rides as I do on my own. On days where the weather is bad I may just spend a bit of time on my bike trainer, do endless reps of lunges and throw in some jump rope work. Occasionally when I have time I also like to get to the pool and do a 2hr session of lap swimming. I also have an intense core regimen. I've been doing 1000 reps of abdominal work one a daily basis ever since I got into college in 2001. It's now just a routine for me and I do it for maintenance.



    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?

    I actually supplemented like a machine before I went vegan. I took every legal thing I could. Once I went vegan my maxes in the gym skyrocketed without any supplements so I didn't bother. However recently (maybe this February) I tried a few cycles of creatine and it helped me out quite a bit. I also like to take VEGA with my smoothies. Creatine seems to give me better recovery time. I recover quite well already but it seems to give me additional power as well. One of the biggest reasons I take it is to slightly even the playing field out a little more. Other athletes take drugs I would never consider taking and the advantage I gain is nothing compared to what they gain from the things they take. This is a major problem I've been facing since I was in high school competing as a national level shot putter. There were even teenagers taking drugs.

    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?

    People think you can't gain muscle being vegan. That is extremely untrue and I know what its like being big trying to get stronger, to now where I'm trying to lose muscle. As a shot putter in high school I was always big. I was around 300lbs when I went vegan but I stayed that way and replaced a large amount of the fat I had with muscle. My plateaus in the weight room disappeared and I was soon benching 370lbs and squatting 600lbs as a 19 yr old. If I kept with the sport I know I'd be benching near or over 500lbs and very likely squatting 750 or more. Now as a cyclist I've been trying to lose muscle. In my first year of cycling I dropped from 285lbs to 200lbs but that was with and extremely restrictive diet. Now I've been 200lbs give or take 5lbs and I can't even lose muscle when I eat 20g of protein a day for 6 months. If I can't lose muscle as a vegan then surely other can gain muscle.

    Protein is a major issue. First of all many people think you simply can't get the same amount of protein as a vegan. This is false because I was eating 300grams a day as a minimum for the first 3.5 years I was vegan. Some days I probably even ate as much as 500grams. People also think you can't get a high calorie diet with is equally false. All in all I was eating 8,000-12,000 calories a day without any supplements. However this was very stupid of me. I didn't need that protein and what I really needed was calories. Nobody needs that much protein. I did need those calories though since I lost weight if I ate anything under 6,000-7,000 and 8,000-12,000 simply let me maintain my weight. I ate this much while avoiding fried food, high fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated oils.



    What do you think the most important aspect of fitness is?

    Recognize what goals you have and work hard to achieve them. Be true to the goals you have and never quit. Also don't feel that the goals you set need to be based on others. Be realistic, there's nothing wrong with simply wanting to be able to run for 30 minutes, or do a few pull ups. There is something wrong with quitting.

    What do you like best about being vegan?

    I like the fact that I can wake up every day knowing I'm not going to be responsible for killing others. I only wish those other people woke up every day thinking about they animals they kill on a daily basis.

    What do you like best about being fit?

    It's a way I can prove being vegan isn't going to kill me. Virtually anyone who may potentially challenge me as an athlete to prove a vegan diet is inadequate and a vegan person more importantly has no shot at beating me in a test of athletic ability.

    What are your strengths as an athlete?

    My biggest strength is my cardio system. Since I was a fit vegan at 320lbs, my heart had a lot of work to do to get blood to my muscles. Presently at 200lbs my heart has it easy which is why during a group ride when everyone else's heart rate is at 150 or 160 mine may be at 120. I rarely ever hit 170 even when racing. I also know that I'm a lot stronger than most other cyclists and hopefully this year I can start lifting again without gaining muscle. This will give me an even greater advantage over other cyclists.

    What advice do you have for vegan athletes who are just starting out?

    Be true to yourself as an athlete. Never show that you can't handle what others are doing. This doesn't mean you can't fail but never fail not trying. If you work hard you'll find that the way you eat will lead you to the top while everyone else's improvements lag. Let performance speak for itself...once you do that you can say whatever you want and people will listen to you with an open mind.

    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?

    Just give it a try now for a month. You'll feel better the faster you do it. Also if you wind up doing it in a slow manner you may regret all those that suffered while you couldn't decide if you were ready or not. After all, who isn't ready to be healthier right this second???

    What motivates you to continue to be a successful vegan athlete?

    I know every step I make towards improvement as an athlete makes people's minds open up a little more to the possibility of this being the best diet. I know for myself that it is but I know others don't agree. If they see me and other athletes doing the same they'll start thinking about a vegan diet. Once they do that they may try it, and soon after that they'll be hooked. There really aren't many of us out there but the ones that are out there are great. Right now in cyclocross racing there are 2 vegan riders in the Pro Men's ranks. Both of them were in the top ten at the National Championships this year and there is no way in hell that 20% of cyclists are vegan.

    How has the website www.veganbodybuilding.com helped or inspired you?

    The forum has really benefited me in terms of knowing others are out there. Nothings wrong with not being an athlete but it seems that people who lean towards veganism are not athletes first. I don't mean sports should be more important, in fact when animal welfare first came into my life it was the only thing I'd ever change my schedule for. The forum is nice because it's a place where I fit in. Before I went vegan all my friends were athletes. After I went vegan I did make quite a few vegan friends but they were nothing like my old friends. They weren't fitness minded and most smoked cigarettes and ate fairly junky diets. The forum has brought me friends that are vegans first (ideologically) but have the mindset of athletes as well. Many of the forum members have also become family to me and I'm very grateful for that. I still love my family but there's something about sharing this belief with others that you can't get anywhere else.

    Is there anything else you would like to add about your vegan fitness lifestyle?

    I will not always be an athlete but I will always be athletic. For me it's an obligation as a vegan to show people I'm healthier than they are. Vegans can't go around saying we have a healthier diet since we don't eat meat or dairy if we simply replace those foods with junky vegan foods...all while sitting on a fabric couch instead of a leather one.
    Guest

    Jericho Fine

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Jericho Fine
    Year of Birth: 05/21/1988
    Height: 5'03''
    Weight: 160lbs
    Birthplace: Miami, FL
    Current Residence: Orlando, FL
    Sports: Strength and endurance training, NPC Men's Physique Competitor.
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
    I am currently finishing up my college degree. After a couple of years in L.A. on an acting endeavor, I had become behind in school. I am also working on getting certified as a Personal Trainer through ACE. Aside from that, I spend my days at the gym, reading fantasy novels (A Game of Thrones, at the moment), reading comic books, drawing, painting model-kits, watching anime, playing strategy board games and card games, and PLAYING VIDEO GAMES . I am the definition of "NERD." A fit, vegan nerd.




    Why did you become vegan?
    I have always been a person who loved animals. I have always been the one to think ill of people who could harm them. I ate meat, but thought it was sad. For most of my life, I didn't know any other way of life. Then, I started getting into fitness and nutrition. I started eating healthier and training correctly. One day, in a speech class I was taking at my community college, one of my classmates gave a persuasive speech on why we shouldn't eat chickens (or any other animal flesh, but was only going to focus on the chickens). He covered the process and what goes on in the industry, and I was disgusted. I am sad to say that I had always been a person that was afraid to research about it. Afraid to find out about the misery and death I had inadvertently caused the animals I cared about. That day, 4 years ago, I dropped meat, all-together. My understanding of nutrition made it that much easier, as well. He definitely persuaded someone that day. A year ago, after researching about the dairy and egg industry, analyzing my food journal, and realizing I scarcely ate dairy or eggs anyway, I gave that up too. No easing into it; I was just done. And I will never look back. Life is that much sweeter, and I feel good about my relationship with animals.



    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I think I had always wanted a muscular physique since I was a child. Even as a child, I read a lot of comic books, just as much as I do now. My favorite comic was, and still is, Spawn. I had always admired the muscles drawn in comic books, and I always though it looked awesome! I started strength training in high school (like every guy -- haha!), but didn't really do it correctly, nor did I eat healthily. Regardless, I still built a fitness foundation that I would then take to greater levels a few years after high school. And now, I really enjoy endurance training. I am not focused on lifting ridiculous weights. I don't focus on maxes and whatnot. I just want to be strong and healthy, overall.

    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    I like to eat VERY clean. I stay away from vegan junk-food, like the processed meat substitutes -- however, I will eat them as a treat -- but, only once in a while. One of my all time favorite foods is mung bean. It is a great bean with high protein, great carbohydrates and FANTASTIC fiber. My breakfasts usually consist of scrambled tofu with kale and bell peppers, with a slice of toasted Ezekiel bread, smothered with natural peanut or almond butter, drizzled with agave and topped with cinnamon. On top of that, I have a bowl of berries that I top with stevia --- washing it all down with a glass of soy or almond milk. Delightful. I take in about 2500 - 3000 calories a day, and carbohydrates make up the majority of my calories.

    How would you describe your training program?
    I workout 5 to 6 days a week with an opposing muscle group split routine. Chest/back, biceps/triceps, shoulders/legs. All of my exercises are done with minimal resting time, and I am super-setting almost all of it. I also do moderate weight with more reps. I then end the session with 10-20 minutes of HIIT cardio on either the elliptical or the bike. I don't like high impact cardio (jogging). What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    I think we all know them here. "Where do you get your protein?" I can't tell you how many times I get that question. All of us ALWAYS get that question. Not one person I have ever met, that I have ever told I was vegan, was not completely shocked at the fact that I am vegan. They are always surprised when I tell them, and they cannot believe the results I have achieved on a vegan diet. Another misconception that bothers me is the one where people seem to think that you "still eat fish." You tell them you are vegan, and they respond, "but, you eat fish, right?" I always respond with, "what tree does a fish grow on?" It may come off as rude, but at that point, I am usually bothered at the ignorance and lack of basic knowledge.


    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
    Research the living HECK out of nutrition. If you have never been much of a nutritionist, NOW is the time. Utilize the free information database that is the internet, read books, educate yourself on essential nutrients and what foods carry them. It isn't hard; it just takes effort. And if you really want to make a difference for animal-kind, and you want to make a healthier choice for the rest of your life, the effort is worth it. Because the life and well-being of an animal is always worth it. Go Vegan!

    Guest

    Jessica Roberts

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Jessica Roberts
    Age: 37
    Height: 5'2”
    Weight: 100
    Birthplace: Stamford, CT
    Current Residence: Farmington, CT
    Sports: I was a competitive equestrian for most my life, and have
    recently delved into the sport of figure competition.
    Why did you become vegan?
    I started my journey as a vegetarian back when I was about 14 years old. About a year after that, I began to follow a vegan diet. It truly just dawned on me one day at the dinner table that it didn't make sense for me to consume food from animals when there was other food available. Even though I did not understand all the aspects of animal welfare at the time, I knew that I wanted to make a conscious decision about the food I ate. I wanted to explore the affects on my body, be more mindful of the animal community, and learn more about the methods and medicine used produce food from animals.


    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I was always active in sports. Whether it was riding horses or playing street hockey, I was always up to something:) However, with all the sports and riding, my body began to accumulate quite a few injuries. About 12 years ago, I discovered the practice of yoga. Since that time, I went on to train in 2007 to become a Bikram yoga instructor. This mental and physical challenge was one of the best experiences in my life. A few years later, I was searching for another challenge. At the encouragement of a local trainer, I began to explore
    the sport of bodybuilding and figure competition. I was hooked! I have been seriously training for about 1 1/2 years and it has been a fantastic
    journey in so many ways.
    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    I am in contest preparation now so I generally eat six to seven meals a day, high protein, low fat and I cycle my carbs depending on how I am progressing in my prep. I use protein powder supplements, plenty
    of fresh fruit and vegetables, oats, sweet potatoes, wheat gluten, hemp protein, some soy, flax meal, and nut butters. I love to experiment in the kitchen and my meals are different everyday.


    How would you describe your training program?
    I focus on one to two body parts per workout in my contest prep, lifting about 4 times a week. Cardio is pretty simple, a few longer sessions a week and some shorter sessions after weight training. My trainer has me doing a generous amount of warm-up sets before we even get to the work sets. And this is no '3 sets of 15 reps' type of training! It's basic bodybuilding exercises with varying sets and rep numbers, drop sets, yo-yo sets, and my favorite supersets. And lifting heavy all the way through my prep.
    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    Maca root for energy and endocrine support. Vit D, calcium, iron, B- vits and iodine to make sure I'm getting all my micronutrients while training and dieting. I also use glutamine, BCAA'S and creatine for my pre-workout supplementation and glutamine and BCAAs for post- workout recovery.


    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    That we are frail, anemic-looking waifs that would blow over with a light breeze. Most are concerned that we don't get nearly enough protein as a vegan so we couldn't possibly put on any lean muscle. As
    we know that is far from the truth!
    What do you think the most important aspect of fitness is?
    Commitment. You have to be in it 100%. There will be days you may not feel like working out, or pushing it that last set, or following your nutrition plan. But if you have relentless and unshakable commitment,
    you will undoubtedly succeed in achieving your fitness goals.


    What do you like best about being vegan?
    The best part about being a vegan is that I have chosen to follow a path that best serves me emotionally, physically, and spiritually. I find strength in my commitment to veganism. And I hope to encourage others to become more mindful about their food choices and incorporate more plant-based foods in their diets.
    What do you like best about being fit?
    Knowing that I am taking care of myself for the rest of my life. Waking up every day and making the commitment to a healthy and fit lifestyle gives me strength to continue to achieve my goals and help others do the same.
    What are your strengths as an athlete? Persistence. I never give up. Commitment. I set a goal, get a plan, and put 100% of my heart and soul into achieving that goal. Love of learning. I'm constantly absorbing information from all kinds of sources, whether it be from books, online information, other athletes or health professionals.



    What advice do you have for vegan athletes who are just starting out?
    Educate yourself!! Read Robert's book, read online, talk to the other vegan athletes on this site. Reach out and communicate! There are many resources available. And you have to be willing to experiment and take the time to adjust your diet and your training. This is a process, be patient, ask a ton of questions and have fun along the way:)
    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming
    vegan?
    Take it slow. It is a major lifestyle change that not only affects you physically, but can have profound emotional and spiritual effects on you as well. Think very deeply about why you want to make this change in your life. Then educate yourself, talk to other vegans, and create a support system to help you along the way.
    What motivates you to continue to be a successful vegan athlete?
    I feel fantastic. I'm stronger in body, mind and spirit. The more time I spend on this path, the stronger and more passionate I feel about being a vegan athlete.




    How has the website www.veganbodybuilding.com helped or inspired you?
    It was the motivation and inspiration I needed to make the final decision to compete as a vegan figure competitor. Finding nutritional resources, pertinent articles, and listening to other athlete's experiences has been an integral part in my commitment to vegan bodybuilding. Is there anything else you would like to add about your vegan fitness lifestyle?
    I'm looking forward to stepping out on stage this year representing
    vegan athletes everywhere!


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