Rachel Schwartz

Name: Rachel Schwartz
Year of Birth: 03/02/1986
Height: 5'8 1/2
Weight: 130
Birthplace: Orange, CA
Current Residence: Costa Mesa, CA
Sports: Bodybuilding
Instagram @RachelSchwartzHealth
Facebook.com/RachelSchwartzHealth
Website(s): www.RachelSchwartzHealth.com
E-mail: [email protected]

Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have:
My name is Rachel Schwartz. I live in orange county, CA close to the beach. I have two yorkie terriers named Grizzly and Bear. I work as a certified nutritional consultant where I've been growing my practice for the last 3 years. I am in process of designing my website RachelSchwartzhealth.com where I specialize in event weight loss. I love being active! Some activities I enjoy are weight training, cycling, running, yoga, hiking, frisbee, swimming, camping etc. Other hobbies of mine is cooking, photography, singing, live music, and going to the movies.

Why did you become vegan?
I heard Dr. Gershfeld speak about “Where to get your protein,” a favorite chiropractor of mine. It was hosted at a vegan potluck in Long Beach by the Vegan Sisters. This was the final push for me. After failed attempts of being vegetarian throughout college I was finally ready to dive in feet first to see what eating a vegan diet could do for me.

When and why did you become interested in fitness?
I became interested in fitness 4 years ago when I broke 3 bones in my ankle. This made me contemplate my life. I felt I had been taking my health for granted and decided to make a change. I choose to get in the best shape of my life and I haven't looked back!

How would you describe your nutrition program?
My diet changes based on what my goals are but currently this is what a typical day looks like for me.

Meal 1:

1 cup oatmeal with fresh strawberries and blackberries

Meal 2:

Huge salad with tons of veggies, 2 baked potatoes.

Meal 3:

Black beans, brown rice with salsa, avocado, and steamed veggies with corn tortillas.

I focus on eating as many whole foods as possible, limiting processed foods. If I ever get hungry in-between meals I munch on raw veggies. I keep an eye on my veggie intake to make sure I get between 4-6 servings a day. I never plan for a cheat meal. This works for me because otherwise I find I'll look forward to when I get to have a treat rather than my goal of being healthy and fit.

How would you describe your training program?

Again this depends on what my goals are. I workout 6-7 days a week. If I feel like my body needs rest I will have an active rest day.

Sunday: Yoga

Monday: HIIT full body circuit

Tuesday: Upper Body weight train

Wednesday: HIIT full body circuit

Thursday: Glutes/Legs

Friday: Off

Saturday: HIIT full body circuit

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

Daily I take a:

multivitamin- complete aray of vitamins and minerals

vitamin e- antioxidant and heart benefits

b complex- energy benefits

lysine- preventative from getting sick

How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
First thing people say is, “So where do you get your protein?” At this point it makes me chuckle because people just arn't educated on nutrition. Sometimes it seems like people are confused with my diet preferences. My diet has always been different than my friends and family so by this point, they're pretty much used to it by now.

What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
Misconceptions:

That you don't eat a lot.

Not getting enough protein

Health freaks

Trendy

Really skinny/overweight

Have you had success in promoting veganism / vegetarianism to others? If so, how did you go about it?
Yes I have. Instead of using the word vegan, i use the word plant based. and spend some time educating people on where they get they're protein.

What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
The most important aspect of training is listening to your body and using the right amount of weight and rest times.

What do you like best about being vegan?
My favorite thing about being vegan is the health factor. On top of that, being lean all the time, having tons of energy, sleeping like a rock, and being able to be a mindful/kind eater.

What do you like best about being fit?
The best thing about being fit is feeling strong and over coming things physically and mentally!

What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
Best advice I have for people just starting out is to make sure you surround yourself with like minded individuals and people who will support you. I would recommend hiring a trainer in the beginning to make sure you're getting the proper form and technique.

What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
If eating a vegan diet interests you, I would suggest to do your research and ask yourself why it interests you? Is it for health reasons? For animal rights, etc? Then once you've done your research and you think it's right for you, GO FOR IT! You won't regret it.

What motivates you in life?
People motivate me. When someone is pushing or challenging themselves to be better, I am inspired. Doing things that they never thought they could achieve, I am inspired. When someone wants to make a change for the better and is scared but faces they're fears and proves to themselves that they do have what it takes.

What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
I have been a faithful user of veganbodybuilding.com. It has given me a lot of valuable information about living this lifestyle. It inspires me to see all the beautiful physiques of both men and women. Gives me a sense of community. Let's me know I'm not alone and many people around the world are living, breathing, lifting vegans.