Here are 5 famous vegan athletes who swear by a plant-powered diet
One of the biggest misconceptions of adopting a vegan diet is that you’ll be deprived of essential nutrients, lack energy and find it harder to stay fit. However, elite athletes are increasingly crediting the power of plants for enhanced performance, higher energy levels and faster recovery.
If you’re having doubts about going animal-free, these vegan athletes will inspire you.
1. Sir Lewis Hamilton
The British Formula One driver has been vegan since 2017 and makes the headlines for his activism almost as often as he does for winning races. Lewis has praised his vegan diet for improving his performance in racing and boosting his energy. In 2020, he achieved a record of seven Formula One World Championships, only equalled by the legendary driver Michael Schumacher.
2. Venus Williams
The iconic tennis player holds countless titles and four Olympic gold medals, making her one of the most successful players in history. Venus transitioned to a plant-based diet for health reasons in 2011 when she was diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease which causes swelling, joint stiffness and severe fatigue. She also launched Happy Viking, a plant-based protein brand.
3. Patrik Baboumian
As one of the strongest men on the planet, we think it’s pretty safe to say Patrik Baboumian doesn’t struggle to get enough protein. He won Germany’s Strongest Man in 2011, the year he became vegan. This plant-powered Strongman broke the record for the heaviest yoke carried over 10 metres (555.2 kg), as well as the world record for log lifts (165 kg). Patrik’s achievements show that you don’t need meat, eggs and dairy to build strength!
4. Lisa Gawthorne
As a long-term vegan, Lisa Gawthorne is living proof you don’t need to eat animals to be at the top of your game. Throughout her career, this Team GB athlete has competed in running and cross country in her age group, as well as duathlons (run-bike-run). She is ranked 6th in Europe for her age group in Sprint Duathlon and praises her vegan diet for improving her performance, sleep, recovery and digestion. Her book, Gone in 60 Minutes, offers fitness and health tips for people transitioning to a plant-based diet.
5. Kendrick Farris
Olympic Weightlifting is a sport that requires athletes to eat plenty of protein to gain lean muscle and build strength. This is no problem for Kendrick Farris, a Team USA weightlifter. After adopting a vegan diet in 2014, Kendrick moved up a weight class and was able to recover faster, as well as improving his focus and mental wellbeing.
More and more people are trying vegan for their health – why not join these famous vegan athletes? Sign up for our free email series for free tips, recipes and resources.
