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  • Legacy Profiles

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

    Andrea White

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Andrea White
    Year of Birth: 1978
    Height: 5'4
    Weight: 120
    Birthplace: Brooklyn, NY
    Current Residence: Brooklyn
    Sports: Track & Field, Calisthenics, Aerobics, Body Building
    ~B.F.A in Fine Arts-2001~ University of Buffalo
    ~ Fitness Certification Course- (NASM) 2010
    ~Dance Fitness /Athletic Coach/ Technical
    Dance Training & Choreography
    ~AAU Junior Olympic Track & Field Coach /New Orleans-2011
    ~GK Classics 4th Annual Mega Muscle Championships (NC) -Women's Middle Weight Winner, (Best Poser, Best Female Entertainer, and Women's Overall) Winner-2011
    ~Gold's Gym Body Building Championship (NC) - Women's Overall Winner-2010
    ~Body Built by Bar Calisthenics (NY)-Women's Overall Winner-2011/2010
    ~Muscle Sports Magazine Athlete Profile: 2010, ~Times Newspaper: Sports Cover Page: 2010

    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have:
    As a youth athlete I ran track and I danced. I did them both up into College, majoring in Fine Arts Dance. After graduation I continue to run for endurance an maintenance competing in Open events and Road races. I coach youth athletics, training athlete to compete in games such as the (Junior Olympics. I was a former Dance Fitness Instructor in local organizations such as the YMCA, EL Puente Community Human Rights Institution, NYC Afterschool Programs and
    various Dance schools throughout the North Carolina area. Working as a Personal Trainer, I had the chance to train in the Bodybuilding League under Body by Silk Fitness/ Head Trainer and Dominating BB Athlete, Jerry 'SILK' Garner.
    I won my first two shows, overall in all events!!! I've always been a promoter of health awareness in my community family and friends; now I'm learning the nutritious ways of being fit as a Raw Vegan; Just fruits & Veggies. Now that's an awesome way to 'hit the stage'...talk about Nutrition!!! With all my exposure in fitness, I would love to compete as a Raw Vegan Athlete!!! I know I can do it and dominate, because with God All things are Possible!


    Why did you become vegan?
    I first became a vegan years ago after reading up on the maltreatment of animals and how food growth was enhance through chemicals. I disagreed with the methods use in order to increase sales and put food on my plate. I'm an animal lover...lover of cats!!! ~Years past and I return to the SAD diet for Muscle growth in the Bodybuilding Sport. I was advised of this way of eating for better results. I swallowed lots to do this!!!
    I recently return back to Raw Vegan because I wanted to reshape what I thought my body needed to be healthy and fit. I wanted to change from the inside out and heal, restructure things in my body which were out of order. So now it's fruits and Veggies for Nutrition.
    When and why did you become interested in fitness? I love to see how my body can transform through HARDCORE Intense exercise and Nutrition. I can unwind with exercise, be glam with Physical Fitness, Mentor with Exercise Routines...be more flexible, agile and prepared for any Physical Challenges or Opportunity that come my way.


    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    Intense!!! I'm learning and reaping the benefits of consuming just fruits and vegetables.
    How would you describe your training program? My current training revolves around strength and Cardio endurance. My gym has become the 'monkey bars' in the parks and my treadmill is the Outdoor Track. Calisthenic Training for Body strength include Pull-ups, pushup and series of dip exercises. I alternate from running miles to Intervals of Sprints. For flexibility of my joints, tendons and hip sockets, I dedicate 20-30 minutes of stretch and relaxation in the sun when it's out.
    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    I stop using supplements. I feel I get all the nutrients that my muscles & cells need from Raw Fruits & Veggies.


    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    Some are interested in my foods and want to know how I can still have muscles...others want to know how long do I plan on being a vegan and some even say...”I always eat funny”! They thinks its weird or strange or unhealthy and so are the Rack of Ribs!!!! I'll eat the fruits and smoothies instead!!
    What are some common misconceptions about veganism? Is that it's a fad or a movement and a way to be separate. And that we are staving ourselves by not getting enough calories.
    Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others? If so, how did you go about it?
    Absolutely!!! For me this is the highlight of my Healthy lifestyle. I aim to live and promote health by being an example; a picture of wellness. Many know that I've always been active and athletic and that my foods have boosted my body's physique. So I feel a platform has already been set for me to share. I offer my foods, share my recipes and have a good attitude about it and that draws interest. I'm seeing folks become active in researching ways to boost their health through fruits and juicing and counting calories and exercising. I love when those
    people who at one point were disinterested in my nutritional regimen begin to ask me about buying fruits, and blending and making salads. So refreshing!!!
    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    Making up one's mind to get started and Be Consistence! And once you are in the zone, PUSH pass your breaking point...and discover how powerful your gains could be when you do not give in to the mindset of “I cant, or I'm tired, It's too much, or I'll do more next time”.


    What do you like best about being vegan?
    The unlimited source to reaching optimal health! It's like exercise; you can't do out do exercise through different stunts and postures; exercise has always been around, its movement. And Nutrition has always been around providing ways to reach levels in health. Veganism embraces Nutrition, Awareness of one's environment, Developments in Nature and Unity within God's Creation. Being a vegan is the tool to ushering a person to appreciate God's creation and universal purpose for all things; to have consideration, appreciation, and true love for everything; uncontaminated just pure.
    What do you like best about being fit?
    I get to illustrate discipline through exercise in my community. I consider myself to be 'encouragement passing by; by the folks who have no motivation, the ones who gave up, by the ones who want to get started in being more active in Fitness. When they see me, I hope Motivation is the message walking by saying make a change, c'mon you can do it too.
    Furthermore, I like to BE READY for opportunities in the Main Stream Fitness Community for the purpose of advertising and promoting Health & Physical Fitness on a larger scale.
    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    Stick to your goals and surround yourself with folks who will encourage you!
    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    If you're thinking about becoming a vegan continue the process and go forth...get around like-minded folks! Research, ask questions, pray and listen to your body!!!


    What motivates you in life?
    Easy...hmm God Almighty!!! Waking up in the morning and being blessed with a new day, Motivation! So much motivates me...but I tell you, God's Word inspires me to live the way I do. To honor God with everything and show appreciation for all He has given. Resources for Divine Health (Fruits & Veggies)! Resources to be balanced and have peace, His Holy Spirit!
    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    Honestly, I'm revived and charge to come upon this site. I made the statement that I wish I new of it earlier and I wouldn't have transformed at one point to a SAD diet to participate in Bodybuilding. That was the guidance I was given; declaring Vegans can't build muscles. But I'm glad that in this present day, I'm more knowledgeable, humble, disciplined and wise enough to know that's not true.
    I hope through this site I can DIVE back into Bodybuilding as a RAW Vegan and show that ALL things are Possible when there is truly a desire. I desire to be excellent in all that I do...and I'm a enthusiast of Health and Wellness, It's the journey God has me on!!!
    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    In honor to the creators of Vegan Body Building....I thank you for Leaping into this dimension and providing a way for individuals like myself to flourish in fitness the Vegan Way Baby!!!!
    Many Thanks!!!
    Guest
    Name: Andrew Blakehall
    Year of Birth: 08/03/1976
    Height: 6'0
    Weight: 185
    Birthplace: Tucson, Az
    Current Residence: Portland OR
    Sports: Marathon running, Soccer,
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
    I'm interested in fitness, weight training, health, literature, music, traveling, world cultures, business, art, veganism, and anything to do with animals.


    Why did you become vegan?
    I became vegan about 13 years ago, I've been vegetarian most of my life.
    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I think I've always been interested in fitness to an extent. When I was young I played soccer. In college there was a brief period where I realized that I was getting winded easily, so I decided to start exercising. I began to see that when I'm in good shape, everything in my life flows better. In my late 20s I stopped exercising for about four years. In that time I began to question everything around me, and I noticed something fascinating: For the most part, the people who got up early to exercise tended to be happy, while the ones who stayed up late smoking, drinking, and eating junk food tended to have challenges with depression, colds, and general apathy. Obviously there are exceptions to this rule on both sides, and I'm not making judgements. I just found that to be a happier person I needed to make an overhaul of the way I was living. So I left the bar scene, and traded it in for the 'morning' scene. It was as important as the switch to veganism.
    How would you describe your nutrition program?

    It varies by the season and what my goals are. When I'm eating well I eat a lot of oat meal in the morning, and stir fries in the early evening.

    How would you describe your training program?
    I like to run first in the morning. 2-6 miles is my standard. Then, late in the day, I do 1 hour of weight training, generally with free weights. On off days I'll do abs.
    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    There are so many misconceptions it's hard to know where to start.
    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
    Write down Why you want to do, then figure out why you must do it. Hire a personal trainer! 3 sessions is well worth the money.


    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    The best way to encourage someone to get fit or to become vegan is to be an ambassador. Don't preach, don't judge, just be radiant and people will eventually catch on.
    Guest

    Andru Brozovich

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Andru Brozovich
    Year of Birth: 1977
    Height: 5'7”
    Weight: 160 lbs.
    Birthplace: Seattle, WA
    Current Residence: Seattle, WA
    Sports: Road Running
    Twitter: twitter.com/DruZovich
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have
    Besides running, fitness and anything involving physical activity, I am a musician, artist and sometimes moonlight as a photographer. I've been lucky enough to release several tracks through the underground electronic scene, play numerous clubs and venues, tour, have art showings, and work with a variety of amazing and inspiring people in the process.

    Why did you become vegan?
    It started as what felt like a no-brainer after getting food poisoning from chicken twice within 12 months. Once I gave up meat, dairy made sense to stop consuming next. And the more I read about going plant based, the more I realized it was a good choice in not supporting the treatment of animals in factory farms as well as treating my body right. Best choice I've ever made (along with being 100% sober).




    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    At the age of 12 I saw Andre Agassi in the beginning of his firstserious run. Being that I was a little rocker kid, I thought “Man,here is this guy all wild and long hair and such...I wanna be him!” So Istarted with tennis and my first year made varsity. In my teens and20's I focused more on music and art, but around my mid 20's I startedgetting back in touch with my inner athlete. After which I quit mypartying ways and went sober at 28. I started taking trainingseriously, learning everything I could about lifting weights. Thiseventually led me to learning to box at AMC Kickboxing in Kirkland,Washington. It was around this time I became Vegan. I watched mytraining, recovery and overall performance excel and knew I stumbledupon something that felt good and was working. Later down the road itbrought me to running, which I never thought I could have gotten sopassionate about. 2012 has been my best year with two 2nd placefinishes in short distance races, a 3rd place age division finish inthe half marathon, as well as taking part in the beautiful Victoria BCMarathon in October, finishing with a very respectable time. 2013 willonly get better.

    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    6 days a week I am very strict on what I am eating. I've been having the same protein smoothie for breakfast for what seems to be years and years. But it works. Starting the day with a big glass of plant based protein, fruit, Maca powder, greens, etc. Throughout the day it's Organic sprouted Tofu, quinoa, brown rice, various organic energy bars, fruit, hummus and at least one big salad with as many veggies as I can fit on the plate. My favorite "treat" meal is anything Thai or from local vegan restaurants.

    How would you describe your training program?
    My currenty Marathon training has been a 3 month program designed by Hannah Schultz of RunFresh Coaching. I am averaging around 33 miles a week with a long run ranging between 13-20 miles, a medium run of 6-10, one day of an easy 3-4 and a speed workout day at 5K pace. The longest run has been for endurance building, while the medium run I make sure to keep it at a tempo pace. The speed workout can be anything from Fartlekt style to 5x1000m at 5K pace. All in all, it's been an awesome program. Along with this, I've made sure to hit the gym with a HIIT circuit, using a lot of plyometrics and bodyweight exercises, along with at least two sessions a week of Hatha Yoga to keep my muscles loose and relaxed. I have never felt healthier and more ready to go in my life.

    W hat kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    Plant based protein powders (Warrior Food, Vega and Life Source are my favorites), Maca Powder, Essential Greens, Whole Food Multi Vitamin, Various Pre-workout Energizers, Post Workout Amino Acids, Vitamin D3, Turmeric. I'm always trying new supplements out as long as they are top quality to see how they can help my training.

    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    When fellow athletes find out, they aren't surprised. When a lot of my non athlete friends find out they treat it like being vegan is a cult. I do my best to educate them however and slowly over time, when they've seen my results, and how happy and energized I am, more and more people come back to me to ask how to go about starting a plant based diet and lifestyle.

    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    The same misconceptions we've all heard. That vegans are skinny, weak, we don't get enough protein, etc. I usually just say “go look at the profiles at veganbodybuilding.com” and that zips their lips pretty fast.



    Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others? If so, how did you go about it?
    So far so good. I educate people as best as I can with books and website information. The older I get and my friends get, the more they see I'm getting healthier and not aging as fast, while they start running into health complications, issue, loss of energy, loss of metabolism, etc. The best way to promote a plant based diet and lifestyle is to have one yourself and to do it well. People like Mac Danzig, Marzia Prince, Robert Cheeke, and the amazing athletes on this site are walking billboards for what a plant based diet can do for anyone. I try to be that as well. I usually get asked a few times a week about my diet, so I think us as vegans are all doing something right to promote the positivity that comes with it.

    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    Consistency and knowledge: The more you train, the more you have to learn about your body and diet. The more you learn about your body and diet, the more often and better your training becomes.

    What do you like best about being vegan?
    Not aging. I feel better at 35 than I did when I was 25. The energy I have, the quality of sleep I get and the fact that I'm not contributing to hurting animals also are great. I've yet to find any downside to being vegan honestly.

    What do you like best about being fit?
    That I can do physically what I choose to do and not have to worry about not being able to succeed. Knowing I can hit the gym or run the track and excel at it is a huge confidence boost. Looking and feeling better with age also is a confidence booster.



    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    Read! Ask questions! The more you know the better off you'll be. But information alone isn't enough; you have to WANT to improve yourself. No one is going to put your running shoes on for you. Find the activities that you like to do, whether it's running, weights, cycling, or yoga and lose yourself in it. Training is the best stress relief you can have.

    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Go look at the profiles here, and then look again. We did it, so can you! Best decision you could ever make for yourself. Also, try a vegan brownie. You'll never want a regular one again.



    What motivates you in life?
    Honoring my family name with being the best “Dru” possible.

    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    It's easily the best resource or starting point for a new vegan athlete or vegan looking for more information. You all do a great job with this site and I visit it often for news, links, supplements or anything else I might need for my lifestyle. Keep up the great work!

    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    Find what you love to do, and if you don't have something you love to do, try everything you can until you find it.
    Guest
    Name: Anthony DiNobile
    Year of Birth: 1968
    Height: 5'9”
    Weight: 185
    Birthplace: Mount Vernon, NY
    Current Residence: Dallas, TX
    Sports:
    Bodybuilding — 2012 AZ Natural -4th place,
    Motorcycle Road Racing — CCS 2011 4thplace Overall Expert,
    Dog Showing — 2007 Dogue de Bordeaux National Best of Breed

    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions youhave.
    My name is Anthony DiNobile, a 45 year old IT professional and newly Certified PersonalTrainer and shortly will be studying for a certification in Holistic Nutrition. My three loves aremotorcycles (Ducati 996 for the street/Suzuki SV 650 for the track), showing dogs inconformation and bodybuilding. I also enjoy making desserts and make a killer raw, veganmacaroon.




    Why did you become vegan?
    I have been vegan for a year now. My inspiration was not for a health decision or because of beliefs. Being in my 40's, and consuming typical bodybuilder foods for the last 25 years, I needed to try something different. I needed change. I was getting tired of cooking chicken. LOL. Eating 100% plant based, makes sense to me and I'm very pleased with my results.

    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    When I was younger and was able to feedmyself, I became fat. Kids are ruthless and had enough getting picked on and beat up, so Istarted working out and eating better.



    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    My regimen consists of 5-6 plant based foodsmeals per day. Starting every day with either a smoothie or some juiced fruits/veggies. What I
    love about these are all the different combinations what you can come up with and how creativeyou can be with it. I make sure to get greens every day and my last meal contains a “big ass”salad. My protein sources include: Soy, Garden of Life® Raw Protein powder, chia, flax,
    spirulina, nutritional yeast and hemp seed. I love coconut oil and make it a goal to eat as organicas possible.



    How would you describe your training program?
    I train for hypertrophy. My routine consists of intense, focused resistance training 4 days a week, 2-3 body parts a day using 8-12 reps. If I'm feeling very strong, I'll do a 4-6 rep heavier set or two. I will incorporate more periodizationtraining if I begin to feel overtrained. My cardio consists of a 10-15 min intense session on theelliptical following each workout.

    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    I have to go with protein on this one. The number one question I get asked is, “What do you do for protein?”

    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
    Give it a chance. I was fortunate to have loved it from the start. I never in a million years thought Icould ever give up chicken. I don't even really miss it. I do miss eggs mostly.



    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    I believe the time if right for people that are open to trying a 100% plant based diet. Many restaurants, supermarkets and food retailers have
    discovered the demand in this market and added more vegan options.

    Guest

    Anthony Mann

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Anthony Mann
    Year of Birth: 1968
    Height: 5ft 7
    Weight: 77kg (169lbs)
    Birthplace: rochdale uk
    Current Residence: Northampton uk

    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have:
    I'm a personal trainer. Hobbies are weight training, fitness and boxing. My passions are animal rights issues, and trying to look better in my physique and improve my fitness.
    Why did you become vegan?
    I first become vegan through my brother, Keith Mann, when I was 15 all because of the cruelty to animal aspect.


    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I've always had a basic interest, but it wasn't till I was 30 that I joined a gym to try and get bigger. I was only just over 9 stone (126 lbs) at the time and I was doing a charity full monty show
    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    When I'm focused it's perfect. Majority of the time it's oats with soya milk protein shake and banana or apple for breakfast, then for a snack, wholemeal rice cakes and peanut butter, lunch brown rice scrambled tofu and asparagus, homemade protein flapjacks, nuts, dinner repeat of lunch but add broccoli. Then either tofu salad or soya chunks and asparagus and an apple. I do have treats like homemade apple pie and soya custard, and like most, I do off / cheat days where the vegan cheesecake comes out to play or doughnuts and chips...
    How would you describe your training program?
    I train a min of 6 days a week, one body part a time but I always change routine each week. Some weeks heavy weights, low reps, then light weights, high reps with drop sets and pyramids. For arms i find I dont have to go super heavy. My rest periods are short for maximum pump, and for cardio I do boxing training and sparring etc
    . For legs I focus on around 20 sets of leg extensions for max burn out. For everything else, I change routines often to keep the body guessing.
    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    I don't focus too much on supplements as I try to get all from food but I do aim for 3000 mg of vit c and a zinc supplement sometimes I do buy protein powder, but I feel I can get enough from my diet.
    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    Shock horror - especially in the gym as they always say I bet you eat loads of chicken etc.


    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    That it's unhealthy and you can't gain muscle.
    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    To prove to people that at 44 I can look okay, and I'm fitter than most people half my age.
    What do you like best about being vegan?
    Knowing that no animals have been murdered for my benefit.
    What do you like best about being fit?
    Being able to run a marathon or do 100 meter sprints in 12 secs and just showing others you can do it if you want it.


    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    Research, learn from those who do it and get to know how your body responds.
    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Do it.
    What motivates you in life?
    Trying to better myself.
    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    It's a great website to help people who haven't got a clue about being a vegan in the fitness market.
    Guest

    Arvid Beck

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Arvid Beck
    Year of Birth: 1982
    Height: 182cm
    Weight: 80-90kg
    Birthplace: Duesseldorf, Germany
    Current Residence: Duesseldorf, Germany
    Sports: Bodybuilding
    Facebook: facebook.com/arvidbeckbodybuilder
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
    I was born in Duesseldorf, Germany and spent my whole life here so far. I'm a certified specialist for protection and security and work for a big security company, but i'm currently doing a distance study as a nutrionist.

    Bodybuilding is my great passion, but besides that I also love music and movies a lot. Music is an important thing in my life, and I couldn't live without it.


    Why did you become vegan?
    Although I think a vegan nutrition plan is much healthier than the average diet that contains of a lot of animal products, my motivation to become vegan is purely based on moral and ethical reasons. I love animals, I'm very compassionate, and I'm of the opinion that no human being is more important or worthy than any other living creature on this planet. Every living being has a soul, is beautiful in its own unique way, and has the right to live in freedom... without being abused, tortured, enslaved or killed.

    I couldn't live any longer with the thought that another living being has to give its life, just to offer me some nutrients that I could also get from a plant source, without hurting anyone. Pictures and films like Earthlings made me more and more sick. That was the point where I couldn't live on as a normal omnivore. I didn't even want to consume any milk or dairy products any longer, knowing how those poor animals are held. So I decided that I simply HAD TO become a vegan, no matter what it would take or mean for my sport — which was actually the only reason why I was still consuming animal products at all.

    I had already tried a few times to eat vegan, but because of the usual fears bodybuilders have concerning a vegan nutrition, I always came back to the standard diet. Well, this time I made a final decision, to become and stay vegan forever. That was at the beginning of 2011, and since then I stayed on may vegan way. I don't regret it! I'm really happy that I chose to live a vegan lifestyle! It's the best thing someone can do. For his own health, as well as for the sake of the animals and our whole planet. GO VEGAN!




    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    As a teenager I practiced Ninjutsu for about two years. To get stronger and more muscular I started to do some exercise at home, and bought a little book by Arnold Schwarzenegger. I was very impressed by the photographs of him and I guess it stayed in my mind and already influenced me somehow... that was the beginning of everything.

    In the year 2000 I had to do a placement for school, which I did in a gym. During this time I had the possibility to train in the gym, and could use all the barbells, dumbbells and machines. It was so much fun for me that I realized immediately: Bodybuilding is MY sport... I just couldn't get enough of the training and worked out for hours and hours everyday, without having any knowledge about training and nutrition. But I was young and had the right genetics, so I built up muscle quite quickly. Over the time I read more and more books and magazines to learn more about the scientific background and to improve my results. My journey into the world of bodybuilding and fitness had started...

    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    I eat some raw foods, but I also cook a lot. My most used veggies are carrots, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, onions and spinach (which I love to put into my smoothies).

    My favourite protein sources are all kinds of legumes and nuts. I also like using (soy) protein shakes, since they're delicious, practical, and offer a high percentage of protein.

    Favourite carb sources are legumes (again), rice, rice cakes, potatoes, bread, bananas...

    To get high quality essential fatty acids, I consume lots of various nuts and linseed oil.

    In general I love eating high carb, but if I want to lose fat, I'll reduce them or do some kind of carb cycling, adjusted to my training schedule.

    At the moment my goal is to keep a good shape year round, so I'll also keep up a clean diet most of the time and watch my calorie intake.



    How would you describe your training program?
    For many many years now I do full body workouts, 3 times a week or every second day. My training consists mainly of basic compound exercises. I always try to keep the volume low, concentrating on each set and performing it in a proper form. So in comparison to the training programmes most athletes use, my workouts are very “oldschool”. What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    That all vegans are skinny, weak and pale freaks or hippies, who feel superior and want to convert everyone to veganism... I'm not skinny and weak, and I don't think I'm better than anyone or anything.

    I just go through the world with open eyes, and everything I see tells me: WE HAVE TO CHANGE! We have to change the way we live, and we have to change the way we think... for the sake of this planet.

    I know that most people prefer to close their eyes, to ignore the things they see, or to find some excuses... so they can go on to live and consume the way they always did. But this will lead to a catastrophe. And that's why I decided to change something in my life. I don't expect anyone else to live the way I do, and i'll never try to force people to do so, but I'm gonna go my way, hoping people will follow me... realizing that you can live a good, healthy and fit lifestyle as a vegan, while doing something positive for animals and the whole planet. And all that without a loss of quality of life!




    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
    Don't believe in all those lies about veganism out there... you can and you will build up muscle and strength on a vegan diet! And don't read too many muscle magazines, a lot of the content is just crap. It's designed to make you believe that you can become the next Mr. Olympia by doing some crazy volume workouts, created for chemical enhanced mutants, and by buying stuff that costs a lot of money and won't give you any effect most of the time. Fitness is an industry...and industry is about money. Need I say more??? Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    Please go vegan! At least give it a try... it's worth it.
    Guest

    Ashley Boss

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Ashley Boss
    Age: 25
    Height: 5'8”
    Weight: Off-season 150 lbs; Contest weight shooting to be around 140-145
    Current Residence: Baltimore, Maryland
    Sports: Figure and Dance
    email: [email protected]

    Why did you become vegan?
    I became a vegetarian when I was 12 for ethical reasons. It wasn't until years later that I realized that my consumption of milk and eggs contributed to the deaths of animals that I was against. Being vegan to me is now about not only ethics, but also my health and the environment.


    How would you describe your training program?
    I am currently working on putting on more muscle but am also rehabbing a surgery I had earlier this year (2011). I am currently working out 4 days per week and doing around 30 mins. of cardio at the end of each session. My program changes about every 3-4 weeks. As I prepare to compete again next year, my program will change again and my cardio will increase. Also, I eat...all.the.time!




    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I first became interested in fitness my senior year of high school. I was overweight and ate like crap (soda and a candy bar for breakfast, that's vegetarian, right?). However, it wasn't until after I had my tonsils out and subsequently lost 10 pounds that I realized I was overweight. At this time, though, I thought being fit was following stupid workout videos and that I would get a magazine shoot ready body by doing these workouts. I gave up...years later a friend re-introduced me to the gym and I was hooked. At this time my main focus was dancing and training for dancing (and fitting into my wedding dress), it wasn't until I came across this site that I contemplated competing. Allowing myself to put some weight back on in order to gain muscle has, by far, been the hardest thing for me. Damn society for saying women should be skinny...strong is the new skinny!

    What do you like best about being fit?
    It makes me feel like a badass! Plus, being able to live my day-to-day life easier is a huge bonus.
    What motivates you to continue to be a successful vegan athlete?
    Inspiring other vegans, and non-vegans, that it is completely possible to be fit and vegan.




    How has the website www.veganbodybuilding.com helped or inspired you?
    If it wasn't for this site I would have never have decided to compete. I have made so many good friends on the forums here that continue to inspire me.
    Guest

    Ashley Doughty

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Ashley Doughty
    Age: 27
    Height: 5'8”
    Weight: Off-season 145 lbs; Contest weight shooting to be around 135
    Current Residence: Baltimore, Maryland
    Sports: Figure and Dance
    email: [email protected]

    Why did you become vegan?
    I became a vegetarian when I was 12 for ethical reasons. It wasn't until years later that I realized that my consumption of milk and eggs contributed to the deaths of animals that I was against. Being vegan to me is now about not only ethics, but also my health and the environment.


    How would you describe your training program?
    I am currently working on putting on more muscle but am also rehabbing a surgery I had earlier this year (2011). I am currently working out 4 days per week and doing around 30 mins. of cardio at the end of each session. My program changes about every 3-4 weeks. As I prepare to compete again next year, my program will change again and my cardio will increase. Also, I eat...all.the.time!




    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I first became interested in fitness my senior year of high school. I was overweight and ate like crap (soda and a candy bar for breakfast, that's vegetarian, right?). However, it wasn't until after I had my tonsils out and subsequently lost 10 pounds that I realized I was overweight. At this time, though, I thought being fit was following stupid workout videos and that I would get a magazine shoot ready body by doing these workouts. I gave up...years later a friend re-introduced me to the gym and I was hooked. At this time my main focus was dancing and training for dancing (and fitting into my wedding dress), it wasn't until I came across this site that I contemplated competing. Allowing myself to put some weight back on in order to gain muscle has, by far, been the hardest thing for me. Damn society for saying women should be skinny...strong is the new skinny!

    What do you like best about being fit?
    It makes me feel like a badass! Plus, being able to live my day-to-day life easier is a huge bonus.
    What motivates you to continue to be a successful vegan athlete?
    Inspiring other vegans, and non-vegans, that it is completely possible to be fit and vegan.




    How has the website www.veganbodybuilding.com helped or inspired you?
    If it wasn't for this site I would have never have decided to compete. I have made so many good friends on the forums here that continue to inspire me.
    Guest

    Ashli McKee

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Ashli McKee
    Year of Birth: 1980
    Height: 5'7”
    Weight: 135
    Birthplace: St. Petersburg, FL
    Current Residence: Austin, TX
    Sports: Distance Running, Weight Lifting
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
    I am a certified independent personal trainer and owner of Chapter Fitness in Austin, TX. I'm passionate about health, science, learning, nature, travel, volunteerism, and the arts. When I'm not working with clients, lifting weights, exploring Austin's parks, cycling or training for a race, you'll find me reading nonfiction (and the occasional fashion magazine) or planning our next party or trip,


    Why did you become vegan?
    I've been meat-free for 18 years. I became vegan because I believe we have a responsibility to care for all of Earth's creatures, not torture, kill, and consume them.

    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I became interested in fitness first through training for distance races (marathons are my favorite and I'm training for my first ultra-marathon now). My love for running expanded into weight training; the injury prevention that has brought to my endurance training has been awesome.



    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    My diet doesn't vary too much day to day before dinner. I drink water with lemon immediately upon waking and then a small cup of iced coffee with almond milk before my strength training workout. After that workout and before I run, I eat a breakfast of oats or a quinoa porridge blend with cinnamon. Mid-morning I have a piece of fruit or raw vegetables. For lunch I eat some variation of a grains, beans, and greens bowls, usually spinach, brown rice, and pinto beans sometimes with half a small avocado. Mid-afternoon brings another piece of fruit or raw vegetables and a protein shake. For dinner I aim for more variety and experiment with appropriate portions of ethnic foods, like Asian, Indian, or African cuisine. Bananas, cashews and avocadoes are my favorite foods.

    I love trying new recipes and making nutritious, flavorful meals for my family and friends. There's so much meat-free variety out there and I find it really fun to cook great tasting vegan food at home. I'm not a fake-meat fan and focus instead on simple whole foods.



    How would you describe your training program?
    I do a split program of weight training and I distance train year-round. A typical week for me is Monday — rest; Tuesday — 3.5-4 mile trail run and 30 minutes of core strength training (6 sets of 12 reps of a variety of different exercises each time to keep it interesting; planks are my favorite); Wednesday — run 6 hill repeats totaling about 1.5 miles and legs strength training (using the same time and number of sets and reps described above with plenty of squats included); Thursday — 3.5-4 mile trail run and chest & shoulders strength training (I'm a big depression dips fan); Friday — speed work at the track including sprints and power drills totaling about 1.5 miles of running, and arms strength training (of all different types though I prefer the good old bench dip); Saturday — hiking or about 10 miles of cycling and more core work; Sunday — long run of anywhere from 8-22 miles depending on where I am in my training cycle. I also make sure to stretch for 5-15 minutes every day.


    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    That it makes you scrawny and weak, or that it's really difficult to do.

    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training? Veganism is much easier than you think. Stick with it, be open-minded about trying new things, and you'll be on the way to healthiest you've ever been.


    Guest

    Attila Hildmann

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Attila Hildmann
    Age: 30 (born 22nd of April 1981)
    Height: 5 10
    Weight: 140 pounds
    Birthplace: Berlin/Germany
    Current Residence: Berlin/Germany
    Sports: Triathlon/Fitness/Biking
    Website: http://www.attilahildmann.com/
    Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/AttilaHildmannTV

    Why did you become vegan?
    Because of health reasons. I had a very high level of cholesterol back when I was still a vegetarian.


    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I was always in fitness, but I had severe weight problems. Since I am vegan I keep my weight stable.
    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    I stick to a vegan diet with lots of organic fruits, vegetables and fresh produce.
    How would you describe your training program?
    I train whenever I feel my body needs it. Between my long workout sessions in the pool, on the bike or in the studio I take the time to fully recover.


    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    I take multivitamins, Iodine, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12.
    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    That you won't be able to enjoy good food which is wrong. But I have a passion for vegan cooking and I don't expect my friends to be so passionate about vegan food. But whenever I invite them to a vegan dinner, they really enjoy it.
    What do you think the most important aspect of fitness is?
    To stay natural and don't take too many supplements. Rather go for organic nut butter and give yourself enough time to recover. Primarily I train to stay in shape and feel better.


    What do you like best about being vegan?
    That it's the best way to stay healthy and fit and reduce the risk of diseases of civilizations.
    What do you like best about being fit?
    I lost over 70 pounds during the last couple of years. Back when I was still a fatass I didn't feel as good as I feel today when I look into the mirror. There is nothing more satisfying than to be in shape.


    What are your strengths as an athlete?
    I have a power to succeed, an iron will. I chose the toughest sport, Triathlon and just accomplished my first 70.3 Ironman event. I love how this sport challenges me and how it keeps me motivated to give everything that I've got.
    What advice do you have for vegan athletes who are just starting out?
    You need to have a balanced diet. Don't eat so many processed foods and go for lots of organic veggies and fruits.
    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Learn to cook and enjoy the benefits of a vegan diet. It's good for you and the planet.


    What motivates you to continue to be a successful vegan athlete?
    To eat a vegan diet is the best way for me to stay healthy and fit. It's the perfect choice for an athlete. As an endurance athlete it is primarily important that you consider the antioxidant potential of the food that you eat. Fruits, veggies and superfoods are a great choice. My big goal is to compete in the IRONMAN HAWAII and I am working on my qualification.
    How has the website www.veganbodybuilding.com helped or inspired you?
    I know Robert since he started veganbodybuilding.com and it's always great to drop by and see what's up.
    Is there anything else you would like to add about your vegan fitness lifestyle?
    I like to do 90 days challenges. I accomplished to train for an 8-pack in 90 days and I trained for a 70.3 Ironman in 90 days. You need to believe in your dreams. Anything is possible.





    Awesome! Thanks



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