Veganism is still a controversial topic in the fitness world. Some athletes claim that it’s impossible to achieve peak performance without eating meat. Others say that vegans are leaner, fitter, and more agile. The truth is somewhere in the middle. Research indicates that most athletes, either competitive or recreational, can follow a vegan diet without compromising their progress. The following exercises are said to work best for vegans:
Yoga
This ancient discipline focuses on the mind, body, and spirit, so it resonates well with most vegans. Its benefits go beyond a fit body. Yoga improves your posture, protects your spine, and keeps your joints flexible. It also supports cardiovascular health and increases blood flow to your vital organs. Whether you’re new to exercise or have been working out for years, yoga can change your life.
Running
Vegans consume lots of whole foods, which are a great energy source for running and aerobic training. World-famous runner Scott Jurek claims that switching to veganism helped him win races and run faster. If you haven’t exercised in a while, run small distances in the first few weeks. Increase pace and distance gradually to prevent injuries.
HIIT
High intensity interval training is a brilliant choice for vegans. This workout method improves oxygen flow and accelerates metabolism while preserving lean muscle. It also takes less time than regular cardio, and can be practiced anywhere.
Cycling
Brendan Brazier, a popular cyclist and tri-athlete, says that his performance improved greatly after switching to a vegan diet. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are an excellent source of energy for cycling and cardio training. Just make sure you increase your carb intake to fuel your workouts and prevent fatigue.
Endurance Activities
Swimming, dancing, hiking, walking and other similar activities are ideal for vegans. People of all ages can benefit from endurance training. These exercises improve cardiovascular function, boost your flexibility, and help maintain muscle.
