Lemon water has strong antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties.
Lemons can be consumed internally and externally for various benefits, such as clearing skin from acne, balancing pH levels, energizing our body, and enhancing our mood.
Truth be told, the natural healing powers of lemon juice have been known for centuries.
Almost a year ago, a friend recommended that first thing in the morning before I eat anything, I should drink warm water with fresh-squeezed lemon juice, letting it sit for about 10-15 minutes.
It’s now become one of those health habits that I can’t live without. My body clearly appreciates this (I can tell by the way I feel after), and it has also helped clear up the stomach issues I used to have.
A cup of medium-hot water with lemon juice first thing in the morning purifies the liver.
This morning ritual should be a staple for bodybuilders who intake supplements that are hard on the liver.
It can also help ease joint pain and inflammation by cleansing the system from impurities and releasing the acidity and uric acid from the joints.
When it comes to boosting the body’s digestive and detox systems, lemon is a natural energizing remedy.
Drinking the juice encourages our body to detox naturally. It helps the kidneys and the liver wash out toxins, and gives your body the essential nutrients it needs for radiant skin.
Ascorbic acid is a natural antioxidant that plays an important role in the prevention of carcinogenesis, cardiovascular problems, and many chronic diseases.
Drinking lemon water helps the liver produce enzymes for the body to stay at an alkaline condition.
The phytochemical D-limonene, which is found in lemons and other citrus fruits, contributes to optimal health. It may also protect against common chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease, degenerative eye and cognitive conditions, and general damage caused by aging.
A lot of research has been put in this program. Furthermore, a lot of professional bodybuilders and athletes tried and tested the program, praising its progressiveness and efficiency.
The program is about taking control of your own body and health according to your potential and needs. And worry not; you’ll get plenty of proteins with this system. It will boost you with energy, and you’ll feel just a strong as any carnivore would (perhaps even stronger, depending on how much you invest in your exercise). It avoids vitamins deficiency and provides you with a lot of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Instead of saying things like “I think a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders,” the V3 Vegetarian Bodybuilding System claims “I know a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders, and I have results to prove it.”
Alkaline foods generally consist of fruits, vegetables, and certain whole grains.
It is believed by some that these foods can affect the acidity and pH of bodily fluids (blood or urine). The alkaline diet claims to help your body maintain its blood pH level and can therefore be used to treat or prevent diseases. In fact, nothing you eat is going to substantially change the pH of your blood. Your body works to keep that level constant.
These claims are not supported by medical evidence and make incorrect assumptions about how alkaline diets function that are contrary to modern understanding of human physiology.
Note: a food’s acid or alkaline forming tendency in the body has nothing to do with the actual pH of the food itself. Although it might seem that citrus fruits would have an acidifying effect on the body, the citric acid they contain actually has an alkalinizing effect in the system.
Why should bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts care about alkaline foods?
This nutritional approach can produce higher energy levels, and a boost in the immune system.
And a desirable feature about this energy boost is that there’s no uncomfortable “crash” unlike many energy drinks that are used for pre-workout purposes.
Also, pain and inflammation can be reduced when the acidic foods are not depleting critical minerals from our system. For instance, magnesium is one mineral used to neutralize the effects of acids. And when our body is forced to use it for that purpose, there’s not as much left to carry out its other function of reducing the pain and inflammation felt in the joints.
Bodybuilders can appreciate these benefits from eating more alkaline foods:
Less pain and inflammation, more comfortable workouts.
More reps, more sets, and higher intensity in the weight room.
Faster, more complete recovery.
You don’t need to waste your money buying books, e-courses, supplements, or alkalinized water. Just make a trip to the grocery store with this alkaline food list in hand and you’re all set.
A lot of research has been put in this program. Furthermore, a lot of professional bodybuilders and athletes tried and tested the program, praising its progressiveness and efficiency.
The program is about taking control of your own body and health according to your potential and needs. And worry not; you’ll get plenty of proteins with this system. It will boost you with energy, and you’ll feel just a strong as any carnivore would (perhaps even stronger, depending on how much you invest in your exercise). It avoids vitamins deficiency and provides you with a lot of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Instead of saying things like “I think a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders,” the V3 Vegetarian Bodybuilding System claims “I know a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders, and I have results to prove it.”
A little over a year ago, I went on my second raw juice cleanse as a gift to my internal organs and because I thought it would help me lean out to get a running start at my trim spring/summer look.
Second day into it, I noticed I was getting headaches and nausea, and also feeling really weak in the gym.
This is healthy?
(sounds counterproductive so far)
My cleanse wasn’t as strict as most are, and I ate small portions of clean, solid food throughout the day because I wanted to workout while on it.
Note: If you do a juicing cleanse with no food, I strongly recommend that you don’t work out at all.
I was also drinking about 12 oz. of coffee per day, so I figured the headaches weren’t from caffeine withdrawal.
Many of us have heard that if we feel unpleasant during a cleanse, it’s because of the toxins being released.
Something about that answer was unsatisfying to me, so I did more research and discovered juice cleanses are not for everyone, and they can even hurt us if we don’t execute them correctly.
One of my go-to sources for nutritional info is Precision Nutrition; I have been following them for years now and trust their research, articles, etc. One article they posted “Detox diets & juice cleanses: Could they make you more toxic?” inspired this article.
In fact, the man who wrote the article and his wife both had to go to the hospital because of a three-day cleanse.
Here are some relevant portions of their post that pertain to my issues listed above:
Detoxing to lose body fat is a poor proposition.
Any weight loss from a detox diet is probably water, carbohydrate stores, and intestinal bulk – all of which come back in a few hours after the detox ends.
There is an important connection between body fat and toxins, because fat cells don’t merely contain fat. They’re also a storage site for certain fat-soluble toxins we ingest. So the leaner you are, the less real estate you have available for toxins. This may help explain why many people feel lousy when they’re going through a period of rapid fat loss.
Since fat-soluble chemicals can be stored in fat, when fat is broken down, the chemicals can enter the bloodstream, contributing to fatigue, muscle soreness and even nausea.
If detox diets are a dumb way to lose weight, do they have any potential benefits? Yes.
Foods and drinks typically recommended as part of detox diets are often nutrient-rich “superfoods,” such as:
Lemons
Green tea
Omega-3 fats
Colorful fruits and vegetables
All of these seem to help the body deal with incoming toxins.
In particular, a plant version of glutathione, an important detoxification agent in the brain, can be found in asparagus, spinach, avocado, and squash.
Nitrates
This brings me to one of my own theories. Many people get headaches when they are on juice cleanses. One reason – the most obvious – is caffeine withdrawal.
But even people who are not addicted to caffeine can be subject to headaches. I think this could be due to nitrates. Why?
Well, many juices incorporate high quantities of celery and beets. Neither of these vegetables is typically eaten in such large quantities; both, meanwhile, are rich in nitrates.
Nitrates promote vasodilation. And dilated blood vessels can lead to some pounding headaches.
Nitrates are not the only problem. Many cleansing plans are built around extracted juices. Juice is a processed food. So while we often frown upon processing, juicing is a type of processing.
The Takeaway Message
As a vegan bodybuilder who trains to gain muscle most of the time, I’m going to leave you with a couple thoughts to seriously consider about a detox juice cleanse:
Low Protein: Cleansing diets are super-low in protein, and ironically, protein deficiencies can inhibit the body’s ability to eliminate toxins. This self-defeating feature clearly has to be addressed with protein supplementation.
Low Calories: Cleansing diets are so low in calories, they’ll slow your body’s metabolic processes. This self-defeating feature clearly has to be addressed with calorie supplementation.
If you want to cleanse and increase energy, you don’t necessarily have to do a hardcore juicing cleanse with no food. For instance, Ms. Bikini Universe (vegan bodybuilder) had a positive experience with a less intense vegan detox diet cleanse that included food for 30 days and lost 10 lbs. of fat and later replaced it with 10lbs of muscle.
A lot of research has been put in this program. Furthermore, a lot of professional bodybuilders and athletes tried and tested the program, praising its progressiveness and efficiency.
The program is about taking control of your own body and health according to your potential and needs. And worry not; you’ll get plenty of proteins with this system. It will boost you with energy, and you’ll feel just a strong as any carnivore would (perhaps even stronger, depending on how much you invest in your exercise). It avoids vitamins deficiency and provides you with a lot of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Instead of saying things like “I think a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders,” the V3 Vegetarian Bodybuilding System claims “I know a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders, and I have results to prove it.”
Raw food diets have gotten a great deal of publicity in recent years.
However, raw foodism dates back to the 1800s, when Dr. Maximilian Bircher-Benner cured his own jaundice by eating raw apples and then began experimenting with other raw foods.
A great deal of research has been done about whether raw or cooked foods are healthier for human consumption, and there are valid points on both sides of the debate.
For example, scientists who published a study in the “Journal of Nutrition” concluded that:
“…consumption of a strict raw food diet lowers plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations, but also lowers serum HDL cholesterol and increases tHcy concentrations due to vitamin B-12 deficiency.”
The Raw Food Argument
Advocates of raw food diets state that the cooking process kills naturally-occurring vitamins and minerals in foods. Raw food diets are almost always plant-based, with very few (if any) raw meat or dairy products included. Many vegetarians and dieters turn to raw diets because they eliminate trans-fat and have very low levels of sugar, sodium, and saturated fat.
According to Dr. David Katz, M.D., director of the Yale Prevention Research Center, “Heat can destroy many nutrients, notably some water-soluble vitamins, many antioxidants, and unsaturated fats, including omega-3s. The beneficial effects of dietary fibers, both insoluble and soluble, may be altered and at times, reduced by cooking.” Dr. Joel Fuhrman, M.D. wrote, “Many vitamins are water-soluble, and a significant percent can be lost with cooking, especially overcooking.
Similarly, many plant enzymes function as phytochemical nutrients in our body and can be useful to maximize health. They, too, can be destroyed by overcooking.”
Cooking some fruits and vegetables zaps the vitamin B and vitamin C right out. Rui Hai Liu, associate professor of food science at Cornell University, found that vitamin C levels in tomatoes declined by 10% after cooking for two minutes and by 29% after cooking for 30 minutes at 190.4-degrees Fahrenheit.
Promotes weight loss and detoxification (low in calories, fat, and sodium)
High in fiber
Cons of Raw Food
Tends to be less savory (doesn’t taste as good as cooked food options)
Virtually impossible to eat out, so it requires continuous meal preparation
Risk of contamination from uncooked food
The Cooked Food Argument
Advocates for cooked food point out how crucial cooking is to the human diet.
Cooking softens food to help our teeth and jaws break it down, and it helps our bodies digest food without expending too much energy.
And as Dr. Katz points out, cooking is our best and final defense against pathogenic bacteria like salmonella and E. coli that might be lingering in our foods.
The heating process of cooking is known to boost some nutrients, such as beta-carotene and lycopene. A medical study published in “The British Journal of Nutrition” concluded that the group of 198 test subjects who ate strictly raw diets had significantly low levels of the antioxidant lycopene.
Lycopene is the red pigment found in tomatoes, watermelon, and red peppers, and Harvard Medical School has linked it to lower risk of stroke, cancer, and heart attack.
A report in the “Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry” concluded that boiling and steaming (as opposed to frying) carrots, zucchini, and broccoli best preserved antioxidants and carotenoids.
A recent study published in the “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences” suggests that cooking foods allowed the human species to evolve and develop superior brains.
The study concurs with primatologist Richard Wrangham’s theory that “in order to be able to apply a sufficient number of calories to the brain, you have to be able to cook your food.”
His argument makes two interesting points.
It states that raw food simply doesn’t provide adequate calories, it is an inefficient means of food intake (as a vegan bodybuilder, I’m agreeing so far), and that the convenience of cooking allows people to focus their energy on human advancement and self-cultivation.
By using chimpanzees and other apes as a basis of comparison, the recent study shows that other primates cannot achieve human-sized brains because of the metabolic limitations of their raw food diets.
Pros of Cooked Food
Greater nutrient diversity
More antioxidants, cartenoids, and ferulic acid from vegetables
More satisfying taste and sense of fullness
Cons of Cooked Food
Loss of some nutrients from high-heating temperatures
Loss of anti-cancer compounds and enzymes from heat
Time-consuming
Balancing Raw and Cooked Food
Healthy Raw Foods
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Chickpeas
Freshly-squeezed (or juiced) vegetable juice
Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
Healthy Cooked Foods
Spinach
Asparagus
Peppers
Mushrooms
Lentils
Foods Still Under Debate
Carrots
Cabbage
Turnips
Brussel sprouts
Raw Eggs vs. Cooked Eggs
Many lacto-ovo vegetarian bodybuilders can’t live without eggs, which are a great source of protein and biotin. Biotin is necessary for cell growth, the production of fatty acids, and the metabolism of fats and amino acids. Raw eggs contain avidin, a protein that deactivates this biotin nutrient.
Therefore, cooked eggs with an uncooked egg yolk (over easy, over medium, sunny side up) are best, because they are richer in nutrients like biotin that build strength and power.
Raw food diets typically include many whole fruits, freshly-squeezed juices, green salads, raw nuts, kale, smoothies, beans, sprouts, seeds, hummus, and protein-supplemented drinks.
Some raw food bodybuilders take amino acids like ornithine and arginine to increase muscle growth before working out and going to sleep.
Bodybuilder and raw food expert, Peter Ragnar, authored a book titled, “How to Build Muscle on a Raw Food Diet,” which has an abundance of helpful advice about developing a muscle-building base, the importance of sleep, and powerful raw foods to eat.
It’s not for me, but it is possible for raw vegan bodybuilders to build strong, beautiful physiques. Here are some sample raw meals Ragnar uses to build muscle:
Breakfast (1120 calories, 32 grams protein)
½ cup soaked organic oat groats (soak them in hot water in a wide-mouth thermos the night before)
¼ cup organic raisins
¼ cup organic pine nuts (these can also be soaked or just added to the liquid)
1 banana
High Nitro Lunch (1000 calories, 15 grams protein)
1 handful sea lettuce
1 handful dulse
¼ cup pine nuts
¼ cup oat groats
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup organic tomato sauce (see raw recipe for sauce earlier in this book)
Directions: Mix together the almond butter and sesame oil. Break up the broccoli heads into fine pieces, then grate the stalks. Add the other fruits and vegetables to the broccoli and pour the almond-sesame mixture over them, mixing to make sure everything is saturated. Transfer to a casserole dish and place in dehydrator for two hours. Serve warm on a bed of fresh greens.
Ultimately, it’s all about feeling out what diet works best for your unique biochemistry and lifestyle.
Your body will tell you if you listen closely.
Whether you choose to eat your fruits and vegetables raw or cooked, the important thing is that you’re eating them every day. Many people find cooked foods taste better, so they are more inclined to eat them after a little preparation. Although cooking takes time, blending, juicing, dehydrating, and shopping for raw foods is a substantial time investment, as well.
In fact, there seem to be as many ill raw-foodies as fast-foodies out there for a variety of reasons.
Bodybuilding aside, a raw vegan diet can work well for some people.
I wouldn’t say all people will thrive off that diet, however. While the jury is still out on many aspects of the well-researched raw vs. cooked food debate, healthier diet plans tend to include a balance of both.
A lot of research has been put in this program. Furthermore, a lot of professional bodybuilders and athletes tried and tested the program, praising its progressiveness and efficiency.
The program is about taking control of your own body and health according to your potential and needs. And worry not; you’ll get plenty of proteins with this system. It will boost you with energy, and you’ll feel just a strong as any carnivore would (perhaps even stronger, depending on how much you invest in your exercise). It avoids vitamins deficiency and provides you with a lot of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Instead of saying things like “I think a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders,” the V3 Vegetarian Bodybuilding System claims “I know a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders, and I have results to prove it.”
“The reason I wanted to try a vegan diet for this bodybuilding competition is because I read from many sources that it helps with faster recovery and less acidity in the body.”
Name: Nina Nam Occupation: Actress, Administrative City/State/Country: Santa Monica, CA, USA Height: 5’2″ Weight: 115lbs. Type of Training: Bikini competition Facebook: facebook.com/theninanam IG: @nina.nam
Q: Tell us about how you won the Female Grand Prize for the Bodybuilding.com competition.
For years, I used to say to myself, “Psshh, if I could win a lot of money, I would enter a transformation/weight loss contest.”
So one really depressed night, I was browsing through transformation videos on YouTube.
Someone posted a video about this competition, and I was so shocked that the prize was $80,000!
I saw last year’s female winner’s before and after photos and immediately got inspired!
I decided for the first time in my life to lift as heavy as I could for all of my body parts (not just my butt).
“It felt empowering to aim for getting stronger, not skinnier (which is what I used to want).”
I did not know this would be the most physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging feat I had accomplished in my life.
The reason I wanted to try a vegan diet for this bodybuilding competition is because I read from many sources that it helps with faster recovery and less acidity in the body, and I’ve read about successful top athletes and bodybuilders who were vegan and vegetarian.
Thanks to a lot of research and a coach, I made the transition from a heavy meat-based diet. I doubted the diet and/or the workout many times, though.
But the reassuring weekly progress photos kept me going, as well as the support I received from my friends, family, God, and even from fellow competitors. The obstacles they shared really got to me emotionally. I adored their efforts and their honesty. I was continuously inspired by their commitment no matter what got in their way.
Pretty soon, I honestly did not even care about the money. It was so gruelling that I simply wanted to finish the challenge to my best ability and have no regrets. I wanted to say that I gave it my all.
That would be the biggest reward ever because I never committed and completed something so physically and mentally demanding. When I prayed, I knew in my heart that God wanted me to finish this for a reason.
“I will forever remember the time my mom visited me halfway in the 12-week transformation. She looked straight in my eyes and confidently said, ‘You’ve already won.’ I felt her believe in me so much.”
I already had the desire to do my best, but her confidence burned a fire within me that felt so intense.
She told me to make this bodybuilding competition a priority because something great was sure to come out of it.
Another special person who always encouraged me with kind words is a close friend of mine.
When I felt particularly exhausted near the end of the 12 weeks, he accompanied me to the gym and helped train my weakest muscles (abs).
Even till the final day of the challenge, when I took my “after” photos, he was there alongside my loving sister.
It felt like a sprint to the end as I performed jump lunges, squats, crunches, and leg lifts. I jumped up ready for my photos.
Because they were so cued in, we got amazing shots just in time for me to drop off my sister back to the airport!
After I dropped her off, I cried so hard in the car (like an Oscar-award-winning performance kind of cry). I knew I gave it my all, and I felt so grateful to everyone who helped me.
“The most important thing is: never, never, never give up … give it all you got till the very end.”
For muscles that needed extra love/growth like my shoulders, I hit them 3 times a week.
For my abs, 6 times a week for the last month when I wasn’t seeing the results I wanted.
“I know hitting the same muscles six times a week goes against what a lot of trainers believe, but after a lot of research, I went with Arnold’s strategy: he trained his calves every day.”
So I strengthened my abs in various ways, and it worked for me. Foam rolled and stretched at least twice on workout days.
Q: What advice would you give that you don’t commonly see in magazines?
You are made PERFECTLY! You may be struggling to accept things about yourself, but only you can be of service to others with your specific set of gifts and weaknesses.
Accept all of yourself.
Work on your struggles from a loving place.
Ask God (or your Higher Power) to show you the way every day, and only surround yourself with friends and family who believe in you 100 percent.
Q: What uncommon activity do you schedule into your daily routine?
One-hour power-naps. It’s sadly a luxury, especially for busy people.
“I make it a priority because solid naps (not mini 15-minute naps) help me lower stress significantly and maintain my energy without depending on caffeine or pre-workout drinks.”
Q: What has been the hardest obstacle for you to overcome in your life?
The hardest obstacle has been and may always be: conquering that negative voice, which instills fear, worry, and doubt.
Q: What was your experience at UC Berkeley like? Also, highlight three key things you walked away with.
Getting accepted into Berkeley is one of my proudest accomplishments. A well-respected counsellor in high school told me I wouldn’t get in.
Berkeley was my dream school, and I worked my ass off for it. I had the time of my life:
Found my love for fitness and bodybuilding because of my favourite hilarious dynamic cardio-kickboxing group fitness instructor.
Found my love for acting because of my favourite monotone, yet incredibly inspirational, theatre arts professor.
Blossomed socially by creating diverse friendships, serving as president and social manager of a student cooperative housing, and partying (without drinking!).
Q: What was the hardest part of going plant-based? What helped you overcome the obstacles?
I worried how I would get a lot of protein without eating too much of the same tempeh or tofu. So I researched brands that had the cleanest highest amount of protein without excess calories. That’s how I found amazing stuff like spirulina (6g per tbsp.), chlorella (6g per tbsp.), and tofu skin (a.k.a. yuba, 20g per 3 oz.).
I used to get stomach aches from whey protein shakes. But not with the vegan kinds! I enjoy Vega Sport Chocolate. I love certain organic tofu! If you’re worried about insufficient protein on a vegan diet, you will be surprised after you look at the nutrition labels.
Q: What’s next for you after accomplishing such a big goal, what new goals do you have for yourself?
Empower people by encouraging them to love and believe in themselves through my blog.
Write an Oscar-award-winning screenplay.
Be the lead in the biggest action films of all time.
A lot of research has been put in this program. Furthermore, a lot of professional bodybuilders and athletes tried and tested the program, praising its progressiveness and efficiency.
The program is about taking control of your own body and health according to your potential and needs. And worry not; you’ll get plenty of proteins with this system. It will boost you with energy, and you’ll feel just a strong as any carnivore would (perhaps even stronger, depending on how much you invest in your exercise). It avoids vitamins deficiency and provides you with a lot of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Instead of saying things like “I think a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders,” the V3 Vegetarian Bodybuilding System claims “I know a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders, and I have results to prove it.”
“From all the social and family pressure, constant name-calling, and jokes, I developed an eating disorder.”
Name: Andrea Guzman Occupation: Personal Trainer, Fitness Model, BCABBA Bikini Competitor City/State/Country: Vancouver, BC, CANADA. Age: 28 years old Height: 5’4’’ Weight: 125-135lbs. Type of Training: Bikini competition FB: andrea.guzman.16906715 IG: andreaguzman86 Email: info@andreaguzman.ca
Q: Who had to most positive influence on you growing up as a child and why?
My brother and mom. Since around the age of five, my mom became a single mother. Due to this she had to work 24/7 to provide all the food, education, and a good home for my brother and I.
So my brother became my everything.
He was my dad, mom, brother, best friend, confident, enemy and all the names you can think of. They always worked so hard to keep us happy and safe. They always taught me to work hard for everything I wanted because I could do and be whatever I wanted to be. We always loved each other and we are always a team!
Q: What uncommon activity do you schedule into your daily routine?
I clean my fridge and kitchen all the time, it’s like an addiction for me. I just hate dirty and smelly fridges, microwaves, or stoves.
Q: What has been the hardest obstacle for you to overcome in your life?
The process of becoming a Canadian resident as a Mexican immigrant.
Q: How did you get into competing?
I wanted to become a model-actor-performer but people thought I was crazy, even my family, but I always kept my dreams up.
My obsession and love for fitness started from being bullied for how I looked physically.
In Mexico I was told that I was never going to be a model or a lean person because of my genetics, my “heavy” bones, my curves, and my culture.
From all the social and family pressure, constant name-calling, and jokes, I developed an eating disorder.
After my parents realized I was doing harm to myself, I couldn’t do it anymore so I began to abuse dieting pills and laxatives, working out more than three hours per day.
I never got close to how I wanted to look.
When I decided to move to Canada, my whole life changed. Having to pass through the immigration process and while working for minimum wage, I really wanted to make my dream come true.
So I hired a personal trainer and joined the gym even though I couldn’t really afford it at that time. From there I started to learn so much from my personal trainer and best friend Marie Eve Dube. I started seeing how far I could go, and how nutrition and exercise can be so important and vital for your life.
After three years of training with her I was ready to try it by myself and I wanted more. I kept training from online plans but I always hit a plateau, so I was starting to get desperate.
One day some acquaintances at the local supplement store advised me to try competing, to look for a coach, and to keep following my dream. The first thing that came to my mind was…ME??? Competing? No! They connected me with IFBB Pro Bikini Eboney Chipman for advice.
“It was pretty amazing and fun to see how, with a good plan to follow, you can create the body that you want.”
Figuring this out made my life so much happier and competed for the first time in 2013. It was the best feeling ever because was the first time that I accomplished something that I really wanted apart from getting my permanent residence. I started to create my modelling portfolio and grow as an athlete as well.
I got more involved with practicing yoga everyday, which helped me to love myself more and connect with the “real” me. This is also the time that I became vegan (July 2014). I realized that I have being always like this, but since I was a child my parents told me I couldn’t because I was going to get sick.
I was scared to change because the Internet and society at large, says that we need animal products to be healthy and especially to build muscle as a bodybuilder.
Through all of this I can say that I tried several diets and have followed so many different meal plans with so many coaches. The most important thing I think is to find a coach that respects your core values, believes in you and sees you as a person not a number. More than anything, that they care about your health. Remember, there are millions of trophies, but we only have one body, one soul, one heart, and we have to take care of it.
I love being vegan in bodybuilding competitions, and life in general. Seeing how your body changes and transforms with all the different food is something that I love!
Seeing the look on so many faces when they become aware that you’re vegan and notice all your muscles.
Q: What is the good/bad/ugly behind the scenes that no one talks about?
Good: The opportunity to be able to see yourself succeed in fitness, health, and self-love.
That we can create our own physiques. Also being able to meet so many amazing people and all the opportunities that can come with these events.
I love how you become an inspiration and a role model to so many people.
It’s a great opportunity to market yourself through professional photography and learn about all the modelling industry.
One of the most important things is that regardless of how you place, is that in the process you become the best version of yourself.
Reaching goals and attaining personal and physical transformation.
Plus, it’s super fun to glam yourself up with professional makeup, tanning, amazing bikinis, and heels!
Bad/Ugly: Seeing how many people can harm their bodies just to win a trophy or get in a specific weight that they are willing to do whatever it takes to win (good or bad). The drugs in the industry, which I always stay away from.
“What happens after your show, as some people get Post Show Depression and other negative symptoms that, without correct guidance, can be dangerous and put your health in risk.”
And never forget the horrible smells backstage from tanning, hair product, and body odors.
This show was pretty good and calm for me, the only thing I can say was unexpected is how expensive it all can be.
“This is a pricey sport, but sometimes we don’t notice it.”
Another unexpected detail I experienced was feeling that I was on top of the hill (competition day) and thinking it was okay to take a long break (not listening to my Coach). After two weeks of letting myself go by eating processed food and not going to the gym like I should, I quickly fell back to the bottom of the hill. I also found myself not loving myself as I did before.
Now, I understand that everything is about balance and always listening to my coach, because she always wants the best for me. I’m learning how to be responsible for my actions instead of playing the victim. This has been a huge lesson and now it’s time to get back up and keep pushing forward, not give excuses anymore and do the work.
“Competing isn’t just about going onstage and looking good, it is a full-time commitment.”
It takes weeks of consistent nutrition and training to get your metabolism going and see results. Don’t Stop! Keep going and it will even out and you will see results.
Consistency, patience, and self -love.
Q: What are your favorite plant-based protein sources?
Q: What’s next for you, what new goals do you have for yourself?
My next show will be on July 25, 2015 in Vancouver BC at the Pro/Amateur show with the BCABBA. I am planning to do the competition the next day as well for the Muscle Insider Model Search. I will be one of many vegan athletes that prove we can compete and have an amazing physique.
A lot of research has been put in this program. Furthermore, a lot of professional bodybuilders and athletes tried and tested the program, praising its progressiveness and efficiency.
The program is about taking control of your own body and health according to your potential and needs. And worry not; you’ll get plenty of proteins with this system. It will boost you with energy, and you’ll feel just a strong as any carnivore would (perhaps even stronger, depending on how much you invest in your exercise). It avoids vitamins deficiency and provides you with a lot of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Instead of saying things like “I think a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders,” the V3 Vegetarian Bodybuilding System claims “I know a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders, and I have results to prove it.”
“I’m healthier, lighter, and have better endurance during my workouts. [As a vegan] I’m just as strong on the arm wrestling table and at the gym. My diet is cruelty-free now and that feels gratifying.”
Name: Rob Bigwood Occupation: Interactive Art Director City/State/Country: Queens, New York, USA Age: 32 Height: 5’11” Type of Competing: Professional Arm Wrestler Weight: 250 lbs. Website: www.rbigwood.com Twitter: twitter.com/rbigwood IG: instagram.com/rbigwood
Q: What inspired you to start lifting weights as a young man?
My best friend regularly competed in arm wrestling tournaments when I was in high school.
He was a smaller guy that convincingly beat the entire football and wrestling teams combined. He convinced me to start training with him, and after a few months, we decided to travel to North Carolina for a competition.
I ended up taking fifth place, not bad for my very first tournament. The weight training that I do is 100 percent geared towards arm wrestling.
Q: Who is your hero?
I wouldn’t call them heroes, but I do enjoy listening to Bill Maher, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Gary Yourofsky.
Q: What are your personal passions outside of fitness?
I’m pretty good at designing websites and mobile apps. I’ve worked on some big brands, including Comedy Central, Emirates, Scottrade, MSG, and Air National Guard. I’ve also been playing poker in Atlantic City since I was barely 21. I’m really good at binge-watching certain Netflix series, if that counts.
Q: What one thing would you change about yourself?
I could be more patient and understanding with people. I easily get aggravated and automatically expect them to think and feel the same way I do.
I first thought about giving up meat back in 2002 when a group of baby pigs caught my attention at the Pennsylvania State Fair.
They looked like puppies playing with each other, and I felt disgusting knowing that I had a bacon and egg sandwich for breakfast that morning.
“All animals have the same feelings and emotions and should also have the same rights and respect.”
A vegan lifestyle is beneficial for our environment, our health, less fortunate people and countries, and especially the millions of innocent animals murdered each and every year.
Q: Daily meal plan?
Unlike a bodybuilder, I honestly don’t have a meal plan. I eat whatever I’m craving.
“The ONLY thing I make myself do is have a protein shake mixed with BCAAs after each workout (usually followed by pasta and veggies).”
Breakfast: I usually make a protein shake with vegan protein, a banana, organic almond or peanut butter, and almond milk. Or I’ll have oatmeal with a variety of nuts and seeds (almond, sunflower, pumpkin), but If I’m hungover, I’ll eat a bagel with tofu veggie spread.
Lunch/Dinner: I honestly have so many options, I mix up. I do organic salads (kale or spinach salad with tofu and quinoa, veggies, nuts, and avocado). I like to eat all sorts of veggies like carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, peas, tomatoes, asparagus, etc. I’m also a big fan of quinoa noodles, brown rice, tempeh, and those new Beast Burgers.
Q: What does your training regimen look like as a professional arm wrestler?
Just the basic exercises anyone at the gym would normally do: bench, dips, squat, pull-ups, etc. I do use a fatter grip on my back and bicep day, though, and do more isometric and half-rep type exercises. I have garage springs hooked up to the wall, where I do motions that mimic arm wrestling. I also try to get home every few weeks to train with my brother on the table.
I train heavy static holds that replicate arm wrestling motions with cables, rubber bands, and garage springs once a week. I break up the rest of the week by training chest, shoulders with triceps, and legs on separate days. Back, forearms, and grip have their own day, also.
Q: What tips can you share about training for arm wrestling?
The best way to get started is by hooking up with a group of guys that already practice and compete. Get some table time.
The Northeast Board has a great community of pullers from around the country and even the world. Also, check out the World Arm Wrestling League’s website and their Facebook page for upcoming events.
“It’s REALLY easy to hurt yourself in this sport. Broken bones, snapped muscles, and torn tendons are too common. My best advice is to practice with seasoned professionals.”
Q: If you have to pick only three exercises, what would they be?
Arm Wrestling:
Static table locks with rubber band or garage spring
Q: Could you expand on your philosophy about supplements and the industry?
Steroids are also common in professional arm wrestling, like in bodybuilding. Most of the top guys are taking something (e.g. testosterone, HGH, etc.). It really creates an unfair advantage that’s almost impossible to compete against. Until organizations start regularly testing, athletes will continue to abuse these drugs and not have to pay any consequences.
Sometimes, I’ll take creatine and BCAA with my protein shakes, but I regularly take vitamins D, B, and C complexes.
Q: What ways has transitioning into a vegan diet improved your health?
I used to weigh 290 pounds, felt sluggish/lazy, and would be tired after each meal.
Every meal had to include some type of meat, or it wasn’t a real meal.
Now as a vegan, I’m around 245-250 lbs. and have more energy than ever. I’m healthier, lighter, and have better endurance during my workouts.
[As a vegan] I’m just as strong on the arm wrestling table and at the gym. My diet is cruelty-free now, and that feels gratifying.
A vegan lifestyle is also beneficial for our environment, the less fortunate, and especially the millions of innocent animals murdered each year.
Q: What advice do you have for someone who wants to try a plant-based diet?
“Don’t rush into it, and find out what works best for your body.”
Do some research online, and pick up a few books. It’s honestly a lot easier than people think. There are a variety of mock meat products that mimic the taste of any type of meat you already like.
Q: What are the next big goals you have for yourself?
In a few months, filming starts for a documentary called “The Game Changers,” directed by Louie Psihoyos and executive produced by James Cameron.
I’m also currently gut-renovating a new apartment, which has been fun (insert sarcasm).
A lot of research has been put in this program. Furthermore, a lot of professional bodybuilders and athletes tried and tested the program, praising its progressiveness and efficiency.
The program is about taking control of your own body and health according to your potential and needs. And worry not; you’ll get plenty of proteins with this system. It will boost you with energy, and you’ll feel just a strong as any carnivore would (perhaps even stronger, depending on how much you invest in your exercise). It avoids vitamins deficiency and provides you with a lot of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Instead of saying things like “I think a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders,” the V3 Vegetarian Bodybuilding System claims “I know a plant-based diet is good for athletes and bodybuilders, and I have results to prove it.”
