Interview with Kimatni D Rawlins: Vegan Exercise Enthusiast

I believe life without animal protein and dairy is the most energizing and life enhancing diet for humans. More fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains should be inclusive of daily eating to increase energy, control weight and decrease the chances of inheriting a degenerative disease.

How and why did you decide to become a vegan?

It was a gradual process beginning exactly over a year ago. I’ve always wanted to become a vegan but never had the willpower to do so. The first step was to retrain my brain through various readings, documentaries and vegan friendly travel.

Over a year.

What has benefited you the most from being a vegan?

Energy. I ran my first marathon last year fueled by vegan foods. More often than not, I work out twice a day because of the extra levels of energy I sustain.

Purity. A plant-based diet ascertains that my body is operating as efficient as possible.
 
Training
What sort of training do you do?

A bit of everything from boxing, lifting, yoga, swimming to biking. Yet running is my forte.

At least 5 days a week. Unlike an automobile, our bodies improve with usage. Every day we should exercise 30 to 60 minutes.

Do you offer your fitness or training services to others?

Yes, to family, friends and followers of Fit Fathers.

 
What sports do you play?

Basketball, Football, plus Track & Field.
 
Strengths, Weaknesses & Outside Influences
What do you think is the biggest misconception about vegans and how do you address this?

I hear constantly that Vegans do not get enough protein. I simply laugh because I can eat just as much protein as an omnivore if I so choose. Yet, we do not need to consume as much protein as the typical American diet calls for. 8% to 10% per meal is adequate. Our body’s main fuel source is complex carbohydrates, and is what I center my meals around.

Since my body is not burdened by digesting heavy meats, I have added energy needed for performance activities. As well, the reduction of an acidic environment increases my pH and alkalizes my body so all organs are operating at their highest capacity.

What is your biggest challenge?

I have not discovered one yet. Maybe eating on the road, as I have to prepare in advance.

Are the non-vegans in your industry supportive or not?

50/50

Are your family and friends supportive of your vegan lifestyle?

YES. I have them all signed up for Meatless Mondays. They love it!

What is the most common question/comment that people ask/say when they find out that you are a vegan and how do you respond?

“You don’t look like a vegan!” So I ask them, “What does a vegan look like?”

I am self-motivated. Once I delve into research and determine my position, I stick with it.

Food & Supplements
What do you eat for:
Breakfast - Steel cut oats with raisins, bananas, almonds, cinnamon and almond milk or a protein shakes using Vega One.
Lunch - Salad, brown rice and beans or a Tempeh and avocado sandwich on toasted Ezekiel bread.
Dinner - steam veggies and quinoa.
Snacks (healthy & not-so healthy) - Kale chips mainly.
 
What is your favorite source of:
Protein - Quinoa and Fruit/veggie smoothies
Calcium - Any green leafy vegetable
Iron - Pumpkin seeds

Bananas

Do you take any supplements?

A multi-vitamin and a B-12 supplement.
 
Advice
What is your top tip for:
Gaining muscle - Protein shakes and weight training.
Losing weight - Running and eating 5 to 6 smaller meals a day with the last meal eaten no later than 6 or 7pm.
Maintaining weight - Replace one solid meal with a liquid meal and daily exercise.
Improving metabolism - Assuring the body is fortified with its daily set of nutrients.
Toning up - Jumping jacks, burpees, sit ups, pushups, pullups and dips.
 
How do you promote veganism in your daily life?

Through social media and all of my blog posts on Fit Fathers.

 

Visit www.FitFathers.com.