Name: Paul Salomone
Division you will compete in: Men’s Open Raw 198lbs Class
Age: 35
Height: 5″9
Competition Weight: 198 lbs
Current max lifts Bench/Squat/Deadlift: Bench 408lbs, Squats 480lbs, Deadlifts 555lbs
City: Eastchester, NY
Years as a vegan: Since 2013
Why you became a Vegan: To better myself physically and spiritually, to better the planet, to save humanity, and to stop unnecessary cruelty to animals.
History Competing:
2017 USPA Naturally Fit Games: Mens Sub Masters Raw 198lbs Class – 1st Place Overall (1395lbs Total)
2017 USPA Naturally Fit Games: Mens Open Raw 198lbs Class – 2nd Place Overall (1395lbs Total)
2017 USPA Naturally Fit Games: Mens Bench Press Only Raw 198lbs Class – 1st Place Overall (408lbs)
2015 RPS Autumn Apocalypse: Mens Sub-Masters Raw 198lbs Class – 1st Place Overall (1335lbs Total)
2015 RPS Autumn Apocalypse: Mens Open Raw 198lbs Class – 2nd Place Overall (1335lbs Total)
2015 USPA Naturally Fit Games: Mens Open Raw 198lbs Class – 5th Place Overall (1273lbs Total)
What drives you to compete: To always push my body and mind to new heights.
What do you see as the biggest advantages of being a vegan athlete: The physical advantages are quicker recovery, more energy, more strength, and just overall positivity. However, I see the biggest advantage being that since vegan’s represent a cause greater then themselves, our ego is placed aside.
What types of supplements if any do you use?: BCAA’s, creatine, glutamine, MCT Oil, B12, D3, plant based protein powders.
How would you describe your diet while preparing for a competition: Very strict. I consume a a high protein diet derived from lentils, beans, seitan, tempe, tofu, and Beyond Meat, Gardein, LightLife products. I eat an endless amount of veggies, and just the right amount of fruit per day. I eat oatmeal, sweet potatoes, bagels, and waffles for my carb intake.
Favorite food in your prep diet: Peanut Butter and Chocolate are hands down my favorite. I like to mix Peanut Butter with plant-based protein powder, PB2, Stevia, and Almond Milk to make protein pudding.
How would you describe your training for a competition: Intense, consistent, and ALWAYS paying attention to what the body needs.
Favorite exercises: I LOVE the power exercises: Bench Press, Deadlifts, and Squats. If I had to chose one, deadlifts would be my favorite.
How many hours a week do you spend training?: 12-15 Hours per week.
Today I am most proud of: My wife, Jillian Salomone
Personal website or blog: http://pauljames917.tumblr.com/
Co-Founder of Elevate Nutrition: http://elevatenutrition.com/
