by Forest Crosbie

Today I would like to share an inspiring transformation story from one of my longest-running and most dedicated clients. I’ve had the privilege of working with Vivian since the spring of 2016, when she was just starting her journey as a vegan athlete. During our initial consultation she told me that she was beginning with a lofty end in mind: to represent veganism on a bodybuilding stage. Naturally I applauded her ambition, but I also cautioned that this goal would require a significant investment of her time, and, more importantly, a whole lot of hard work!

Rather than being daunted by the magnitude of the task ahead, Vivian was motivated by it. Over the coming months she proved again and again just how committed she was to this lifestyle, never missing a single workout, food journal, or weekly check-in. Her hard work and consistency paid off, and just over a year after we began working together, Vivian made her vision a reality by stepping on stage in peak form at the NPC Steve Stone Metropolitan Championships in New Jersey. Vegan power!
Looking back on her first year of training, Vivian shared her experience as vegan bikini competitor (and what keeps her motivated even during the “off season”) in a recent interview on The Plantiful Podcast, and you can read more about her journey in a personal essay she published on the Peaceful Dumpling website. I’m pleased to say that Vivian and I are still working together to this day, and she is now pursuing new fitness goals, including distance running and scuba diving! Make sure to follow her adventures on Instagram (@iamvivayoung), where she regularly posts creative content ranging from vegan food, to fitness and philosophy. Keep inspiring, Vivian! The world needs more plant-strong role models like you. 🙂