Division: Olympic Weight Lifting
Weight class: 85kg / 187 lb
Age: 32
Height: 5’ 11”
Non-competition weight: Approx. 87kg / 191 lb
Snatch PR: 83kg / 183 lb
Clean & Jerk PR: 108 kg / 238 lb
Back Squat PR: 166 kg / 365 lb
Front Squat PR: 145 kg / 319 lb
City: Columbus, OH
Years as a vegan: 11
Why you became a Vegan: Originally for health, quickly transitioned to animal rights & environmental after a couple years. Now, all three.
History Competing: Started competing in 2014; biggest meet thus far has been the Arnold Weightlifting Championships 2015 (will compete again there in 2016). I occasionally do CrossFit competitions as well.
What drives you to compete: Success and setting new PRs.
What do you see as the biggest advantages of being a vegan athlete: My ethics are in line with who I am as a person. Better recovery time and healthier diet in general.
What types of supplements if any do you use?: Infrequently: creatine, protein powder (I like Raw Fusion), or anti-inflammatories like turmeric.
How would you describe your diet while preparing for a competition: Same as usual, I’ve never had to cut serious weight for a comp.
Favorite food in your prep diet: Pizza, always and forever.
How would you describe your training for a competition: Weightlifting training is periodic, like most training plans. Usually a strength cycle focusing on squats and leg strength, followed by overhead or pressing strength. Then a focus on the classic lifts (snatch and clean & jerk) along with accessories like pulls and push presses. Towards the meet, a taper with lifter weights leading up to the competition.
Favorite exercises: Back squats and CrossFit group classes because they’re so damn fun.
How many hours a week do you spend training?: 10 to 15
Today I am most proud of: Showing that vegans can be strong and athletic without animal protein, and without causing needless harm to other species.
Personal website or blog: Twitter/Instagram: @sam_metal
