By Melissa Rae Sanger
It’s no secret that being vegan offers remarkable advantages for your health while sparing thousands of animals over the years. But being vegan isn’t just about what you eat—it encompasses a whole range of other everyday choices, too, including how you exercise.
These vegan exercise tips will help provide you with a compassionate approach to achieving your fitness goals and give you the energy you need to be the best animal advocate possible. It’s your journey—make it count!
Fuel Your Workouts With Plants
Vegan foods are bursting with the nutrients necessary for building muscle and sustaining energy during workouts without harming animals. Eat a rainbow of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins—such as lentils, peas, beans, quinoa, tempeh, and tofu—to supply your body with the energy and resources essential for optimal health. And remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Choose Cruelty-Free Gear
When shopping for workout clothes and equipment, cruelty-free brands are the way to go. Many companies offer activewear made from gorgeous vegan materials such as organic cotton, twill, or recycled polyester that are kind to animals and the environment. Check out “PETA’s Vegan Clothing Shopping Guide” to learn more.
Ease Into Your Exercise Routine
As you begin your exercise journey, it’s important to progress at a pace that feels comfortable to you. Start with low-impact activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming, and slowly increase the intensity and duration as you build stamina and confidence. You’ll eventually want to be active for at least 30 minutes every day.
Be Mindful
Incorporate mindfulness into your exercise routine by focusing on the present moment and listening to your body. Pay attention to how each movement feels, and adjust as needed. Mindful exercise enhances your physical health and promotes mental well-being by reducing anxiety.
Variety Is Key
Just as a colorful assortment of vegan foods is great for your health, incorporating variety into your workouts can yield superior results and prevent boredom. From walks in the park with your canine companion (always let pups pick the pace) to cat stretches in your living room with your feline friend demonstrating proper form, the options are limitless.
Resistance exercises build muscle, enhance bone health, and improve mobility, among many other benefits. Whether you prefer lifting weights, using resistance bands, or mastering bodyweight exercises, the rewards are undeniable. Just look at plant-powered Patrik Baboumian, former bodybuilder and past winner of the title “Strongest Man of Germany.” After all, as he says, “The world’s strongest animals are plant eaters.”
Balance and flexibility are key components of a well-rounded fitness routine. Embrace the graceful movements of yoga, the serene flow of tai chi, or the core-strengthening power of Pilates. These activities improve posture and prevent injury while providing a peaceful diversion from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Stay active every day. Find opportunities to incorporate physical activity into your day, whether it’s taking the stairs instead of the elevator, riding your bike to work, or enjoying a brisk walk during your lunch break. Help wildlife and strengthen your muscles by “trash fishing” on dry land—it’s great exercise if you squat and engage your glutes. Every little bit adds up! Take your workouts outside and connect with nature. Fresh air and sunshine do a body good.
It Can Be Dangerous to Go Alone, so Take a Pal
Add some spring to your step by teaming up with friends or neighbors. Join a local dog-walking group, organize a friendly game of pickleball, or join the PETA Pack and fundraise for animals with every mile you run or walk.
Enjoy!
Staying active and healthy is a journey, not a destination. So let’s lace up our cruelty-free sneakers, hit the pavement, and enjoy exercise one compassionate step at a time.
