Rob Bigwood Wins and Nobody Gets Hurts.
Rob Bigwood doesn’t just defy vegan stereotypes, he destroys them. This 26-year old professional arm-westler from Brooklyn, NY is moving up in the world because he focuses his boundless energy and passion on excelling at his sport and bulks up with a naturally cholesterol-free vegan diet. Rob is a living breathing F&*% You to every person that claims that vegans don’t get enough protein or that eating meat is essential to being a successful athlete. No animals were harmed in the making of this champion.
When did you decide to become a vegan? Why?
I was always an animal lover. It wasn’t until after I watched a group of piglets wrestling around with each other did I realize what I was actually eating. I felt horrible! They were so adorable and reminded me of little puppies. People don’t realize that was is on their plate had feelings and emotions just like we do.
Are you vegan just in your dietary choices or in your whole lifestyle (i.e. no leather, no fur, no products tested on animals)?
I REFUSE to buy leather or any other animal product. I also try to avoid using products that are tested on animals.
What is your biggest life goal?
No matter what I choose to do with my life most importantly I want to be happy. I want to stay healthy, positive and inspire as many people as I can.
How did you get started in arm wrestling?
I good High School friend convinced me to try a tournament in North Carolina back in 2000. I ended up taking fifth place in the right hand novice division and have been hooked ever since. It is an amazing underground sport!
What do you say to people who claim that vegans are weaklings?
Most people don’t believe me when they find out I am vegan. I always get asked “how do you get your protein?” If anyone wants to grip up with me and feel my arms - I can prove that vegans are not weak!!!
What is your favorite food to eat before a match?
Apples, bananas, peanut butter, almonds, oatmeal, and soy milk!
What do girls think when they hear that you’re a vegan? Does it help or hurt your love life?
Haha, I only have one girl in my life. She is a vegetarian but not a vegan. If I had to guess it would help considering how curious people get once they find out. It is a great conversation starter.
What is the best part about being vegan?
Aside from the awesome health benefits, it feels great knowing that I am not contributing to animal cruelty. Also, being vegan is the absolute best thing for our environment!
Thanks Rob for all that you do for animals and for showing the world that compassion makes you stronger not weaker.
Check out Rob’s blog for more info on the man, the myth, the vegan legend.
And check out this amazing video of Rob in action:
