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  • Legacy Profiles

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

    Tricia Kelly

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Tricia Kelly
    Year of Birth: 1985
    Height: 5'8"
    Weight: 150
    Birthplace: Mineola, NY
    Current Residence: Austin, TX
    Sports: HIIT, Strength Training and Conditioning

    Websites:
    beyondfitaustin.com/tricia-kelly.html
    tkofitatx.weebly.com
    instagram.com/tkofitatx

    Contact
    [email protected]
    facebook.com/vegantk
    twitter.com/tkofitatx

    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
    I am a plant-based fitness coach in Austin, TX and am loving every second of it. By dedicating myself to an active lifestyle (full of deep squats and green juice), I have transformed my own life, mindset, and body by losing over 125 pounds.


    Why did you become vegan?
    My body has gone through some serious physical changes on the outside (and inside!) since adopting a plant-based diet about a year and a half ago. More importantly, I feel amazing and know how much this has improved my health, in just a relatively short period of time.
    Early last spring, a friend recommended I read "The China Study" and watch several eye-opening documentaries including "Forks Over Knives". Extensive research has proven that many, if not all, degenerative diseases can be controlled and in some cases, even reversed b adopting a whole-food, plant-based diet. I could only wonder: if diet could reverse disease, what could it do for a seemingly healthy person? I put myself to the test and have not looked back ever since!

    I am going the best thing for my body- not to mention environmental and ethical issues. I am full of energy and quickly recover from my intense workouts.


    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    A few years ago, I was going through a breakup and started jogging to get through it all. I found it to be a good way for me to tune the rest of the world out and just focus on myself. I became hooked. I started working out with a trainer and attended boot camp classes three mornings a week. Over the next few months, I took things to the next level. My friend, Chad Byers, offered workouts at the school where we both taught. Last summer, I became more serious about my training and nutrition.


    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    My nutrition program consists of whole plant based foods. I eat a variety of raw fruits and vegetables and consume a lot of fresh green vegetable juices and smoothies. My favorite meal is after a heavy strength training session where I will have a large smoothie with bananas, blueberries and pineapple. I also really enjoy watermelon in the summer!

    How would you describe your training program?
    My training program is comprised of both high intensity cardiovascular conditioning and strength training workouts. I focus on training my body as a whole; using compound multi-joint lifts 2x per week and metabolic resistance training 1-2x per week. Deadlifts and pullups are my favorite!


    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    People are always surprised when I tell them I am vegan. Most people believe that vegans are thin, weak and lacking in energy. This is far from the truth! I do not judge others for the choices they make, but work to share my viewpoint and success story with them. Sometimes, I find myself frustrated by the choices others make - especially those who I love. As a nation, we are overfed and undernourished. We are overweight and sick. We are killing ourselves. People are addicted to foods that cause disease. This blows my mind! Medication and surgery are not the best ways to solve a problem; they are drastic measures taken to cover up what could have been prevented. When given the correct fuel the human body has amazing healing potential. As vegans, we must stand strongly united and continue to bring our message to the forefront while defying stereotypes every day!


    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
    I advocate making small changes over time and believe that this is what leads to sustainable success. Begin by adding in a smoothie every day. Over time, your body will adjust to all of the delicious nutrients you are fueling with and you will no longer crave junk filled with sugar, salt and oil. Eventually, all of your meals will be plant-based (no vegan junk!) and you will feel and look the best you ever had. Who needs more than that!? Make time for your workouts and do not lose sight of your goal. There will be times when you want to quit. Do not stop. You will get stronger!


    Guest
    Name: Tumeria Langlois
    Year of Birth: 1960
    Height: 5' 3”
    Weight: 110
    Birthplace: Exeter, NH
    Current Residence: Maynard, MA
    Sports: Body Building
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have
    I have been working as a personal trainer for over 25 years and have a degree in exercise physiology. My greatest joy is in helping people live a healthy and active lifestyle. I am also passionate about animals and spiritualityand I enjoy Science Fiction (Star Trek, Dr. Who)




    Why did you become vegan?
    Originally For spiritual reasons and animal rights. Now it also for my health and the environment. I am a vegan for all reasons.

    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I was diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of 12. It was so severe that they fused 70% of my spine. I was in a full body cast for 6 months and gained a lot of weight. Once I was fully recovered I began exercising to loose the weight. I fell in love with exercise and made it my career.

    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    Whole foods, plant based diet. I try to avoid processed foods and limit myself to one vegan treat a week.

    How would you describe your training program?
    Intense but not as intense as in my younger days! LOL! I do a 4 day split routine working upper body twice a week for an hour and legs twice a week for 45 minutes. I also do cardio 5 to 6 days per week for 45 minutes alternating between the spin bike, elliptical and arc trainer. I also do a 30 minute core routine twice a week.



    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    B12, Vitamin D2, and algae oil for DHA/omega 3's. Other than that I rely on lots of fruit, veggies, whole grains, beans and nuts, tempeh, seitan and organic tofu.


    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    I work and lift at a small gym so everyone knows me there and knows I am vegan. I love to wear my “Vegan Fitness Team” tank top when I do my upper body. A member approached me just last week that his 70 year old dad went vegan 2 years ago and is now in wonderful health.

    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    That you can't get enough protein or all the nutrients your body needs. That you can't build muscle. That being vegan is difficult or restrictive- It isn't!



    Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others? If so, how did you go about it?
    Yes, I have done outreach- handing out brochures, speaking to people in general, helping at a vegan awareness booth. We also volunteer for MARC (MA Animal Rights Coalition) We have done many pro-veg rallies

    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    Consistency!

    What do you like best about being vegan?
    How I feel! About myself, my body and life! Knowing that I am part of the solution rather than the problem. Knowing I am not causing suffering to other sentient beings. My soul feels free.

    What do you like best about being fit?
    How my body feels and moves- even at 51 years old. I can still do the things I could in my 20's. I'm not slowing down at all!

    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    Go slow and build your way up. I would rather my clients work a little lighter with proper form. Also to stick with it. Make it fun, make it a regular part of your lifestyle.



    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Just Do It! (Wait..that's Nike) Great advise just the same! You won't be sorry-I promise!

    What motivates you in life?
    To be the best person I can be. To never stop growing or reaching to improve. To come from love in all that I do.

    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    Great site! Wonderful information. It is very helpful and inspirational to be sure!

    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    You CAN make a difference. One person is more powerful than you may realize. Never let anything stand in your way!
    Guest

    Tyler Whitfield

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Tyler Whitfield
    Year of Birth: 1993
    Height: 5' 10.5”
    Weight: 165
    Birthplace: Dunedin, Florida
    Current Residence: Tampa, Florida
    Sports: Running, Bodybuilding
    Why did you become vegan?
    I became vegan because my sister has been vegan for about 5 years and I feel that being a vegan is very clean on your body and a very good way to end the factory farming industry and support animal cruelty! Since I became vegan I have yet to look back. I feel and look better than ever!
    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    About 1.5 years ago I began working out. About 3.5 years ago I had a shoulder injury from wrestling that I lost movement in my arm for 4.5 months, and in that time I got very out of shape and I blew up to 217lb and I felt a change was necessary. So I began running and lifting and I fell in love!


    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    My nutrition is strictly vegan obviously, but more bodybuilding based. For example breakfast: scrambled tofu and peppers. Lunch/ post workout: quinoa or rice and beans with veggies. Dinner: maybe some pasta and sauce with broccoli. In between all those meals I usually graze on fruits and fresh veggies to gin sufficient intake of calories etc...
    How would you describe your training program?
    I workout on a daily basis. A normal training routine may include dumbbell press, flat bench press, preacher curls, dumbbell curls, pull downs, tricep extensions, cable exercises, crunches, leg lifts, dead lifts, squats, leg press, and lots of pull ups and push ups.
    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    I use Vega sport pre workout and I use this to give me that little extra kick before a workout. And post workout I take in some Vega performance protein, or Warrior blend protein to get a few extra grams of protein fort the day!


    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    Most people are supportive, especially friends and family, but you do have those nuts who slam you and think your insane!
    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    Some commons misconceptions I see are that people associate veganism with “SKINNY” that's untrue you can be a fat vegan..or a built strong vegan if done correctly.
    Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others?
    If so, how did you go about it? I usually just show pictures of Robert Cheeke to my bodybuilding friends and tell them about my experience on how I feel and look compared to a carnivorous person. Most people usually hop on the wagon with me!
    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    I think the most important aspect to training is probably nutrition being what you eat and most of all dedication to working out and creating a healthy body. Without nutrition, you wont have training.


    What do you like best about being vegan?
    I like the people in the vegan world. They are so warm welcoming and nice, and I really like the fruits and veggies!
    What do you like best about being fit?
    I like the compliments I get because of the fact I used to be so fat. It makes me feel good inside and accomplished for people to say such things about me.
    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    My BEST advice is dedication, and find someone who motivates you and spend some time questioning them and getting good insight on what they do!
    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Do it! Haha really I believe it is great on the body and it really helps you become a better person knowing you are helping animals live by not eating them!


    What motivates you in life?
    The body transformations I have gone through motivate me, but the PERSON who motivates me is Robert Cheeke.
    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com?
    Has it helped or inspired you? I LOVE THE SITE! I get all my info off the site and I like to browse the site looking for new motivation or stuff to help my training.
    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    Only thing id like to share is Eat Green, Stay Lean. GO VEGAN
    Guest

    Vanja Grbic

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Vanja Grbic
    Year of Birth: 1982
    Height: 5'8
    Weight: 135lbs
    Birthplace: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
    Current Residence: Orlando, Fl
    Sports:
    Professional Belly Dancer, Bollywood Dancer, Fire Dancer / Breather / swallower, Stilt Walker, Mud run enthusiast, aspiring bikini fitness competitor
    Social Media:
    facebook.com/vanjadance
    facebook.com/pages/Vanja-Modeling/502806659765482
    VanjaDance on twitter and Instagram
    Website: www.vanjadance.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 sales rep for a medical device company with a focus in cardiology. I came to the United States as a war refugee from former Yugoslavia. Upon my arrival I did not speak any English and the adjustment was quite difficult. I struggled with my language barrier, and even despite such difficult odds I managed to graduate in the top 15% in my high school class. While attending college I stumbled upon something that completely changed my life forever — I witnessed a belly dancing show at a local restaurant. This dance form completely mesmerized me and I embarked on an inspirational journey of discovery filled with shimmies, locks, and pops. I have always been interested in learning about different cultures and was very excited when I got exposed to Bollywood. I have been bellydancing and Bollywood dancing for 8 years now. Recently I have started to expand my repertoire to fire breathing/swallowing and stilt walking.

    In addition to dance traveling is one of my big passions. I have visited approximately 25 countries up to date and am adding new destinations to my list each year.




    Why did you become vegan?
    I come from a culture of 100% meat eaters. We eat meat for breakfast, lunch and dinner... I'm sure we probably even put it in deserts. My younger sister turned vegetarian out of the blue and my entire family was in shock. We even had family interventions trying to get her to be “normal” again. During one of those discussions I listened to her reasoning why she chose to do it... compassion for animals, environmental effects, health reasons, etc. and it made total sense to me. I wanted to see if I could do it thinking that it would only be a couple of weeks... It's been 7 years now. I am proud to say that I have been vegan since January 1 2013. It was my New Year's resolution that I plan to keep forever. I am very excited about my decision because I know that it's the best possible thing to do for animals, environment, and myself.



    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I have always considered myself as “just a dancer”... never anything more than that until I started socializing with people who were amateur body builders. Their lifestyle became very intriguing to me and I wanted to learn more about it. I even started going to the gym with them in order to try to learn more. Currently I run in mud/obstacle races, yoga, spinning, and do weight lifting.



    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    I am still trying to figure out what's working for me in terms of right amount of calories, ratios, etc. I do eat a lot of beans, legumes, and green leafy veggies.

    How would you describe your training program?
    I work out 6 days/week with a personal trainer. We do about an hr — hr and a half of weight lifting. I try to get up and run about three times/week in the morning before rushing off to work, and I also dance about 2-3 hrs/week

    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    Glutemin, Raw Protein, amino acids, dim, magnesium, vitamin C, once/day women's vitamin, coconut oil

    How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
    People think I am crazy.... I wish I could take a photo of everyone's reaction when they hear it for the first time... total shock and disbelief. I even had a doctor tell me once that if I stick to a complete vegan diet I will die in 5 years — very encouraging.



    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    Everyone thinks that our food is boring when in the actuality our food is tastier than any meat you could possibly eat. People also think that all vegans are skinny, pale and sickish. I am on a mission to prove that stereotype wrong.


    Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others? If so, how did you go about it?
    I try not to push my opinions or way of life onto others simply because I don't appreciate it when other people do it to me. When I meet someone who is genuinely interested in learning more I love to share all the science and facts behind the benefits of being vegan.

    What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
    Dedication and perseverance. Never give up even if it feels like you will never make it!! You are your own biggest obstacle... mind over body

    What do you like best about being vegan?
    I love feeling good about myself and the effect I have on my environment and especially the animals. I recently calculated the approximate number of animals lives I've saved — about 1,700 that's pretty darn amazing... What do you like best about being fit?
    Being fit is synonymous to being healthy to me. You look great, feel amazing, and are always ready to conquer the day.


    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
    Find something you enjoy doing... Just because your friends are participating in a particular sport or an exercise regimen does not mean that it's the best option for you. As long as you enjoy it you will find it within you to excel and never give up.
    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Congratulations!!! You are a positive influence on the world we live in. Make sure you vary the foods you eat, and that you consume enough calories throughout the day. Reach out to others... we love to help




    What motivates you in life?
    I am a war refugee... I know what it is to not have any food for days at a time, no running water, no electricity, no access to education, and I know what it feels like to live in the constant fear for your life. I feel extremely lucky to have been given another chance at life. Every moment I have on this Earth is cherished and celebrated, and I don't take anything for granted. I am my own toughest judge and I always push myself to go beyond the 100%

    What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
    This is an incredible resource.... First place I went to when I decided I wanted to do fitness competitions.
    Guest

    Vegan Vixens

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Vegan Vixens (www.veganvixens.com)
    Created by actor / activist Sky Valencia, the Vegan Vixens are made of sexy, trendy and fun loving women whose goal is to inspire men to live a longer and happier life, by making healthier decisions on what they consume. With the Vegan Vixens show, the Vixens not only alleviate the suffering that our environment and animal friends much endure, but will also make our world a safer more compassionate one. The Vegan Vixen show is not only the wave of the future - it is our future.


    Kimmy Somers




    Sky Valencia




    Sunny Subramanian




    Janae Noonan




    Stevie


    Guest
    Name: Wendi Wentzell aka Kat Von D'stroya
    Age: 28
    Height: 5'5”
    Weight: 150
    Birthplace: Garden City, MI
    Current Residence: Saint Clairsville, OH
    Sports: flat & banked track roller derby

    Teams: Ohio Valley Roller Girls All Stars (co-captain), Death House Dames, Team Legit

    Awards: Qualified for Team USA, Team Legit is the current national banked track champion, MVP Blocker All Stars Vs Cincinnati, MVP Blocker All Stars Vs Morgantown, All Tournament Team - Disorder At the Border 2011, 2011 Most Feared, Stunt Woman, Triple Threat and All Stars MVP


    Why did you become vegan?
    I had been vegetarian for years and at 16, decided to take the plunge to be vegan. I gained a lot of weight because I didn't know how to eat properly as a vegan. My body rebelled and I became very sick. I went back to a high animal protein diet and dropped all of my weight (from 180 back down to 125). I was thin, but I couldn't continue to live my life consuming animals in the name of vanity. I decided that weight was not the most important thing and went back to being vegan after being inspired by my friend and teammate Debbie Scary. As a vegan I maybe a little thicker, (it certainly doesn't hurt in this sport) but I am much healthier and in a better place mentally.
    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I figure skated as a child and played soccer in high school but it was more to keep me busy and make me a well rounded person.
    After a couple of seasons playing roller derby, I took 6 months off. When I returned, I decided I wanted to be the best skater I could be. Fitness and strength became very important to me because the harder I worked outside of practice the more results I saw on the track.


    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    I try to eat a higher protein, well rounded diet. Whole grains, fresh fruit and veggies. I am a sucker for a well made vegan sweet.
    How would you describe your training program?
    I have roller derby practice 2-3 days a week for 3 hours a day. In addition, I lift weights and run 2-3 times a week . When I have free time I enjoy crossfit classes, skating outside, hot yoga and running local 5ks. I plan to run my first 10k this November.
    What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
    I do use some Vega and Herbalife products. Ginseng for energy, digestive enzymes, myodurance and creatine monohydrate for long/intense practices.
    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    That vegetarians and vegans are the same and that we don't know how to properly feed our
    bodies using only plant based sources.


    What do you think the most important aspect of fitness is?
    Being healthy and understanding that fitness comes in ALL shapes and sizes!
    What do you like best about being vegan?
    Being able to live my life without causing pain and suffering to animals.
    What do you like best about being fit?
    Muscle definition!
    What are your strengths as an athlete?
    Explosive speed, agility, mental toughness, accurate hits, and quick thinking.
    What advice do you have for vegan athletes who are just starting out?
    Buy Robert's book and take a nutrition class. Even if they don't teach anything vegan nutrition, you can relate it to plant sources.


    What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
    Do what you have to do to become vegan, but don't think you can't jump right into it. If you eat a well rounded diet your body will never miss the animal products you used to consume.
    What motivates you to continue to be a successful vegan athlete?
    My supportive vegetarian fiancé Corey Cuc, my teammates, animals, biology and fellow vegan derby girls around the world!
    How has the website www.veganbodybuilding.com helped or inspired you?
    Just looking at the profiles of the athletes featured on this site keeps me inspired to push my body
    to its fullest fitness potential.



    Guest

    Will Molinar

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Will Molinar
    Year of Birth: 1975
    Height: 5' 7”
    Weight: 165
    Birthplace: Anderson, Indiana
    Current Residence: Brooklyn, NY
    Sports: wrestling, bodybuilding, running
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
    I am a writer. I've written 11 novels, 7 of which have been published through www.synergebooks.com. I have also been a personal trainer for over 10 years and a natural competitive bodybuilder for over 20.



    Why did you become vegan?
    At first it was for health reasons but it has since become because of a desire to protect animals and not take part in their murder and torture.

    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    I know no other way of living. Since I was four years old, I have been involved in some kind of athletic pursuit. I love it, I absolutely love exercising. I can't live without it, it's like breathing.



    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    Eating wise when I'm cutting up for a show I have some mixed nuts for breakfast, half a protein shake(rice protein or soy) before workout, half after. Then a big veggie salad with kale, mixed greens, artichokes, tomatoes, black beans, avocado, olives, dressing is olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Later I'll have another shake or some more nuts but that's about it when I'm cutting. Fun, huh? Low carbs sucks but that's the only way I know to get ripped. Too much cardio makes me shrink up and I get small. When bulking, I'll eat a lot more carbs/foods of course. I throw in a lot of brown rice and potatoes. My cheat day is Sunday and I eat rice cream or soy cream and rice cheese pizza and I kinda have a sweet tooth as well and love dark chocolate. I eat veggie burgers sometimes but I have a soy sensitivity so I cut back on that when I need to.



    How would you describe your training program?
    Hardcore bodybuilding. Five days per week, super intense training designed to maximize muscle gains and strength.


    A general work out runs thusly: Mon-back, chest, bis, calves Tue-legs, abs, tris, shoulders Thurs-chest, back, hamstrings Fri-back, chest, legs, abs, bis, calves Sat-shoulders, tris, traps, Reps go from 13-15 the first 2 days, 8-10 the next and then Fri and Sat I do 6 or fewer. I usually do 2-3 sets, sometimes 4 and rest between 2-3 mins in between sets. I do almost exclusively free weights and/or body weight exercises like weighted pull ups or weighted dips. I never do machines unless I am rehabbing an injury. I work out like the Bulgarians do, only 35-40 mins per workout. For more details on this way of training, check out Big Beyond Belief. You can find out-of-print copies on Amazon. Tom Platz worked with them and did some crazy stuff. Their workouts are super intense. On their program, you train legs six days per week sometimes! But it works.

    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    That you can't get muscular without eating meat. Totally not true!

    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
    Take it slow, like I did. Start stripping meat out of your diet and replace it with meat substitutes if you need to. Make the transition as easy as possible. Go slow and let your body adapt to the new diet but remember, being vegan doesn't just mean someone doesn't eat meat. Veggies, fruit, whole grains, these are the foundational foods a vegan diet is built on.
    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    I love the idea of being part of a community that celebrates what's possible being vegan in the world of bodybuilding.


    Guest
    Name: William Birchall
    Year of Birth: 1996
    Height: 5'10”
    Weight: 70kg
    Birthplace: QLD, Australia
    Current Residence: NSW, Australia
    Sports: Weight-lifting, gymnastics, school-based sporting games.

    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
    For starters, I am a sixteen year old student living in Australia, I have been vegan for close on two years now, and never have I felt any better in life. I am a part time personal trainer and gymnastics instructor and throughout the majority of my life, anything physical has been both a priority and a passion. I wish for nothing more in life than to be able to help people, and hopefully through this, may be able to motivate young vegans (like myself) be able to accomplish amazing tasks in their journey. In my belief, everything we do in life is a choice, a choice to do right, or the choice to do wrong. A choice to change lives; for better, or for worse.. The choice is yours.


    Why did you become vegan?
    Initially it was due to illness that I became vegan, but as I looked into it more and more, it began to grow on me, and as I learnt more, I knew that it was the lifestyle for me. The idea of such a simple concept that can better ones health whilst bringing no detriment to others or animals of any kind, sounded like an impossible miracle to me! So it was through this thinking, and personally witnessing the positive effects in which it had on my life and body, that made the change permanent.
    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    For as long as I can remember I have been involved of sports of some description, and it is through this that it naturally became a way of life for me. At some of the hardest parts of my life, if nothing else at all, I always knew that the gymnasium was there by my side, and would always be there through my highs and lows. The more I leant about different types of fitness regimes and exercising schedules and ideas, the more I was intrigued. The ultimate connect to fitness and health was when I started gymnastics around the age of twelve.


    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    I like to keep my eating constant, but with some variations to keep it interesting. Throughout the day before going to the gym in the afternoon (generally) I load up on complex carbohydrates and really dig into foods like; bananas, raisins, pastas, rice, lentils, oats, potatoes etc. I find this gives me great energy throughout the day. Straight after a gym, or the evening/ night following, I divulge in foods high in amino acids and protein, such as; stir-fries, Indian dishes, Chinese dishes, lentils, variety of fruits and nuts etc. I do however believe that one must gorge from time to time on something they do truly love! (For me, nothing is more satisfying than a square of frozen cacao fudge!- vegan of course).
    How would you describe your training program?
    I do like to mix up my training, but I generally don't conform to the usual training regimes of 'cutting', 'bulking' or 'strength'-cycles, personally, I just prefer to set myself a new goal every couple of weeks-months, I find this keeps me a lot more happy and content to sticking with an exercise programme. I will always try to incorporate compound exercises into my workouts, every week. I also have a week spot for plyometric training, can't get enough of it! Concentrating on specific muscle groups is always good, but I try and alter its positioning a lot in my work out, along with my cardio and aerobic/ swimming.


    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    Speaking mainly from the point of view of people my age (the younger generation), it is often believed that veganism leads to malnourishment, disease, and sickness- a lowered level of health and happiness. When really, it is the EXACT OPPOSITE! Never in my life have I felt more at home and happy in my life, not to even mention how much healthier and confident I feel within myself since living the vegan lifestyle. The thought of veganism only belonging to 'shy and skinny environmentalist hippies' can now be forgotten. The facts and evidence to prove that vegans live a more constructive and healthier life is incontrovertible. Face the facts.
    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
    Always keep with it, even when the going gets tough. It's like anything else in life, if things do begin to get hard, or scary, persistence and strength in what you believe conquers. Don't be led by social standards and what people want you to believe. Go out and live your own life, be the person you want to be, and make the changes you want to see. Seek what is true.


    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    As previously mentioned, any issues or questions on anything listed, I would be more than happy to provide my advice and support for anyone who is undertaking a new step in their training, or in following the vegan lifestyle. You can email me at “ [email protected] “
    I wish you all the best in your training, vegan lifestyle, and life endeavours.
    Guest

    Xavier Xenakis

    By Guest, in Profiles, from legacy VBBF website,

    Name: Xavier Xenakis
    Year of Birth: 1988
    Height: 6ft
    Weight: 210 lbs
    Birthplace: England, UK.
    Current Residence: England, UK.
    Sports: Bodybuilding.
    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
    I work in IT and am currently studying music composition at university, bodybuilding is one passion of mine — in 2011 I placed 4th in the Mr. Northampton Open Class at just 160 lbs. Since then I've added 50 lbs of muscle following a vegan diet!


    Why did you become vegan?
    Ethics, financial and health reasons. I have always loved animals and don't wish to partake in any form of animal cruelty. I went through a period of eating 8 chicken breasts a day and decided it was enough. Being Vegan eases the strain on your wallet and stomach! For the first few years I was vegetarian — in the last year or so I have made the transition to being vegan and now feel better than ever! It is difficult when eating out etc. but I've learned to always keep some food on me!

    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    Since I was 18 I have been weight lifting seriously, although pro wrestling got me interested in physique morphing since much younger.

    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    I eat a lot of protein, (1g per lb of bodyweight,) and actually follow a high carb / moderate healthy fats diet. Most vegan proteins such as beans are high in protein and carbs, but this is ok since they are very low GI carbs.
    My meals consist of lots of beans, nuts, vegan protein shakes, (brown rice, hemp and soy,) and for carbs — oats, wholewheat bread and fruits/veggies.



    How would you describe your training program?
    I actually follow a system called “power, rep range, shock,” Each week focuses on a different method. For power weeks, I will focus on heavy compound movements like chest press and squats with a 6 — 8 rep range. For the rep range week I will focus on cables and machines, less rest between sets and 12 — 15 rep range. For shock week, I will do supersets, giant sets and drop sets to “shock” the muscles! Doing these 3 week cycles always keeps my body guessing and helps me bulk whilst staying as lean as I can.
    What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    That you can't get enough protein! I've found veganism a great, anabolic alternative to chicken and tuna!


    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
    Keep the diet clean. Vegan doesn't automatically = clean. Keep the sugars and fats down where possible. Get all your essential fats from nuts and the like. Also for bodybuilding purposes — be vary of meals that are high in fats AND carbs — keep them separate.

    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    Whatever your sport or even if you don't work out — being vegan will definitely improve your health and quality of life — try it today even if it's just for a week and feel the difference!


    Guest
    Name: Yolanda Presswood
    Year of Birth: 1976
    Height: 5'3
    Weight: 115
    Birthplace: Southern California
    Current Residence: Southern California

    Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have.
    ~I'm a full time stay at home/homeschool mama with a preteen daughter and a teenage son. An ISSA certified personal trainer, R.I.P.P.E.D certified instructor, holistic living enthusiast, Children's story writer, wife, daughter, and friend. My passions are educating on a plant based health/fitness lifestyle as well as living naturally and compassionately. I enjoy sharing my love for sports science with those who want to learn. Weight lifting, bodybuilding, and aerobic fitness.


    Why did you become vegan?
    ~Returning to my roots..Consuming animal flesh was never something I felt good about. Now Im educated enough to KNOW why. Health and compassion.

    When and why did you become interested in fitness?
    ~I think it was when I was in the womb. My parents were both bodybuilders. My mom and oldest brother both certified personal trainers. I was raised on carob balls, oatmeal, protein drinks, and iron. Its not what I do.. its WHO I am. At 32 is when I really began to know this is what I was born to do.. its my gift. Its what Im made for. In the summer of 2012 is when I honed in and went full speed with it. I saw some friends competing and thought..if they can do it.. so can I! Now Im a Clark's Nutritional Centers and Natural Foods Market sponsored athlete.. Ive been in FitnessX Magazine and will be competing in Austins Naturally Fit Super Show with plantbuilt.com in July!




    How would you describe your nutrition program?
    ~I keep myself between competitions and photo shoots. I maintain year round..so I eat the same year round. Straight forward is how Id describe it.

    How would you describe your training program?
    ~Off season hardcore. In season I ease up a bit for a softer look. What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
    ~That were feeble,that its too hard,that vegans cant build muscle without animal flesh,and don't get enough protein or iron.



    What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with veganism or training?
    ~Look for recipes to replace your omnivore recipes..anything you can make with animal products..you can make without. Youre gonna have bad days so remember the good ones. Work hard, play hard. Don't EVER give up!


    Do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share?
    ~I want people to be inspired. Everyday is a gift. Take it as it comes. One day at a time, one breath, one moment. Swing with the ebb and the flow. Be joyful. Keep going. Move forward even when you've taken 25 steps back. Be positive. Don't listen to fear..its a lie! Nothing is impossible! Chase down your dreams! Don't listen to the nay sayers. Love much. Be open. Work harder than you think you can. Never stop pushing for what you can achieve! If you can dream you..you can do it..Go out and make it happen!
    I BELIEVE IN YOU! <3




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