If you ask most people what they associate with bodybuilding, they're not likely to mention vegetarians. But why shouldn't they? Carl Lewis, Greg Chappell, Dennis Rodman and many other amazing athletes have performed super-human sporting feats fueled by delish cruelty-free food.
Brissy boy, Billy Simmonds is one meat-free muscle man who's not only proving you can be buff without beef, he's out muscling the meat eaters! A passionate vegetarian since his teens, Billy is a certified steroid-free strongman and last year won the Mr Natural Universe competition in Hollywood.
When not flexing his way to the top of the body building world, Billy also teaches martial arts, holds down a full time job as a banker, runs, surfs, rock climbs, powerlifts and runs an online training program for other body builders at VegetarianBodyBuilding.org. Gosh that's enough to wear you out just thinking about it!
Unleashed caught up with Billy recently at his regular gym, Go Health at Browns Plains (big thanks to them for letting us film at the gym!). Here's what he had to say:
"When you look at the arguments to going vegetarian or vegan, you really can't deny it's the right choice, in terms of your health, the environment and the impact you're having on others." Too true! If you want to take a strong stand against animal cruelty like Billy, then pledge to be veg and start saving lives.
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Champion bodybuilder, martial arts instructor, swimmer, rock climber, powerlifter and all round nice guy, Billy Simmonds.
'I believe that all animals are equal. I think that we could all take heed by being a bit more peaceful to all animals regardless of what they are.'
Victorious: Mr Natural Universe 2009
'I think a real man is someone who stands up for what they believe in … thinks without being led, and questions what they are doing.'
'Going veg, I noticed an immediate amount of energy and felt at peace with the world. I felt like I was moving with the laws of nature, not against them. I felt a bond with animals, and felt I was making a difference and that I was standing up for something I believe in.'
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Do it for the pigs...
Do it for the chicks...
Do it for the cows...
Do it for the sheep...
Do it for the fish...
Do it for the planet...
Do it for yourself...
