Interview with Rob Bigwood: Professional Arm Wrestler

It all started back in 2002 at a State Fair when a group of piglets caught my attention. It was adorable watching them interact with each other, and it was no different than watching puppies. I got ill thinking that I had eaten a bacon and egg sandwich for breakfast that morning. I've always been an animal lover and when I actually made the connection, it made me sick. I researched and discovered how disgusting and inhuman the factory farming industry is. 

 

I have been a vegetarian for years but vegan since 2009.

 

The biggest benefit is that I know I'm thriving on a cruelty free diet and that no animals have to endure any pain or suffering for my personal benefit. I use to weigh around 290 pounds and felt extremely lethargic. Now I'm 225 lbs and feel like a new person. I've never felt healthier in my entire life and it has been one of the best decisions I ever made.

 

I made an ethical decision to give up all animal products and was willing to face any consequences. It is more important to stand up for what I believe in than to worry about being an amazing arm wrestler. Veganism is a life style that more people should get behind.

 

Torque exercises that simulate arm wrestling, heavy weights and cable training. Forearms, biceps and back are the most important body parts to train for this sport.

 

For a tournament, I'm in the gym 4-5 days a week. I also arm wrestle with a group of guys every few weeks. 

 

Sure, if they have any interest in my sport. 

 

Professional Arm Wrestler

 

I blitz any misconceptions by beating over-sized meatheads on the arm wrestling table. 

 

Muscle endurance and tendon strength.

 

Drinking too much beer, liquor and wine.  

 

Surprisingly yes, but this might be because I'm successful.

 

Absolutely! My dad loves the food and my mom makes sure I have everything needed for when I go home to Jersey. 

 

"Where do you get your protein?" 

 

I motivate and push myself. I have always been the type of person to never settle for anything less than the best.

 

Breakfast - I usually mix oatmeal and almonds, sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, and raisins. If I’m feeling lazy, I’ll eat organic cereal with almond milk and a banana. 

Lunch - A variety of salads.

Dinner - I love Indian, Thai, Mexican and Japanese food and a few of my favorite places are (in NYC) Gobo, Blossom, Terri, Soy and Sake, and Candle 79.

Snacks (healthy & not-so healthy) - Vegan ice cream and New York’s Dun-Well Donuts.  

 

Protein - Sunwarrior and Vega protein shakes, Builder protein bars, almond milk, legumes, nuts, tofu, tempeh, seitan, and mock meat.

Calcium - Tofu, Almond milk, dark green leafy vegetables (bok choy, broccoli, collards, kale, spinach).

Iron - Dark green leafy vegetables and beans (lentils, soybeans, spinach, quinoa, chickpeas).

 

Fruits, vegetables, nuts and freshly squeezed juices. I also have more energy when I eat less calories.

 

Only when I train for a competition, I take protein shakes and a multivitamin. I also take flaxseed oil and glucosamine for my elbows.

 

Gaining muscle - Eat more protein and calories. Also do between 8-12 repetitions of each set at the gym.

Losing weight - Eat less calories and add more cardio to your workouts. 

Improving metabolism - Spend more time exercising.

Toning up - I'm the wrong guy to ask but check out Robert Cheeke or Jimi Sitko.

 

I have a blog and website where I post related topics. Most people are intrigued when they find I'm vegan. We were always raised to believe that the only way to get protein is meat. I educate them about my diet and where I get my protein. 

 

 

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