Vegetarianism is a rising global trend. Many people, of all ages and genders, are choosing to become vegetarian as a way to prevent illness, keep fit, prolong their lives and maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, some have argued that a diet of primarily leafy greens and tofu does not provide the body with enough nutrients to participate in high intensity physical activity, such as martial arts. UFC Gym explores the impact of vegetarianism on martial arts.
What is a Vegetarian Diet?
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A well-rounded, healthy meal should have 2 servings of protein, starch and fat in certain proportions, depending on the weight and outcome the person is looking for. Vegan meals do not get their protein from meat, fish, eggs or milk but instead from other rich sources of protein such as tofu and soy milk. Together with starch from rice, fats in tofu and fiber from leafy green vegetables, the body will receive an adequate supply of nutrients in order to function and provide energy to take part in physical activity.
Vegetarians are Equally as Capable
All the coaches and trainers at UFC Gym agree, those with a healthy vegetarian diet are equally as capable of taking part in martial arts as those who eat meat. The coaches say that while there are fewer protein options in a vegetarian diet, they can easily find other sources and add more starch and fiber to meet the athletic demands being made on the body.
Preparing for Practice
To sum up, the average, healthy vegetarian diet will provide enough energy for the body to perform well at any sport. However, to ensure optimal physical condition before, during and after practice, increase the amount of start in the meal slightly and choose foods that are rich in protein such as nuts, dairy, eggs, soybeans, cereals, beans, breads, pasta, corn, potatoes oats, soy milk and tofu.
The coaches at UFC Gym also recommend that, when following a vegetarian diet, that three meals and two or three snacks a day are required. Make sure to eat a lot of foods with “good” calories and healthy fats such as peanut butter, avocado, low fat butter, olive oil and fruit juice.
UFC Gym offers a range of martial arts classes suited to people with any diet. The professional and dedicated guidance of our internationally qualified coaches is guaranteed to bring fast results through effective teaching methods.
Lauren Wu - Calipso
Find out more about UFC Gym Vietnam:
District 2 - Ho Chi Minh 3rd Floor, Thao Dien Pearl, 12 Quoc Huong Street, Thao Dien Ward
UFC Gym Website: http://www.ufcgym.com.vn/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ufcgymvn
Hotline: (08) 7108 9889
