In this continuation of our conversation with natural vegan bodybuilder Joe Vijay, we delve even deeper into the nuanced world of bodybuilding, veganism, and ethics. 🌱💪This episode picks up where we left off, exploring Joe’s recent competitive season as a vegan bodybuilder and then diving into our opinions on enhanced bodybuilding and steroid use as a vegan. Could there one day be a Vegan Mr. Olympia? We examine the ethics and legality of steroids in the sport and the unique challenges Joe faces as a natural vegan athlete navigating this landscape.Joe shares his experiences of how people react to his vegan lifestyle, including some surprising responses to his vegan themed gym attire. We also touch on Joe’s personal approach to vegan activism, shedding light on different strategies for inspiring change.The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as we discuss societal health trends, the potential of lab-grown meat to accelerate veganism, and the reasons why more people haven’t embraced plant-based living. Joe also unpacks the health aspects of veganism, from bloodwork to maintaining peak fitness on a plant-based diet. 🌎If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to prep for a bodybuilding competition as a vegan, Joe breaks it all down—manipulating food, cardio, and training to achieve peak conditioning. We discuss the role genetics and metabolism play in bodybuilding, the impact of extreme leanness on overall health, and how NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) changes during prep. Finally, we explore the importance of having a supportive partner during such an intense journey and how relationships can play a crucial role in achieving competitive goals.This episode is packed with eye-opening discussions and actionable advice, whether you’re an aspiring bodybuilder, vegan advocate, or someone looking to better understand the connections between ethics and fitness.Without further ado, let’s dive back in with the inspiring Joe Vijay! 🎙️TIMESTAMPS:FOR VEGAN FITNESS COACHING: https://aethixfitness.comMERCH: http://www.aethixfitness.com/shopCOMPLETELY FREE TRAINING PROGRAMS: http://www.aethixfitness.com/trainingMYPROTEIN (https://us.myprotein.com) - My absolute favorite, affordable, customizable vegan protein powder! Use code "AETHIX-R1" at checkout for $20 off anything you order! Using the code helps support me! I highly recommend the Soy or Pea Protein in Mocha or Vanilla Chai flavors :)SOCIAL: YouTube: www.youtube.com/aethixfitness Instagram: www.instagram.com/tofustrong Facebook: www.facebook.com/aethixfitness TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@beeflessbrosPODCAST (please leave me a review if you like the podcast, it helps a ton!) Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bvKpJgwWI12689a4LtHUn?si=c24cc81865ba4dd7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-aethix-approach/id1523507831Support The Aethix Approach by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/the-aethix-approach