Xavier Xenakis

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!