I have been following Matt Frazier of “No Meat Athlete” fame on his blog (via his newsletter) for a few years. I find it very helpful, supportive, and inspiring to surround myself with like-minded people, even if the world wide web is a (partial) source of that community.

When Matt announced he was writing a book I was thrilled! (And admittedly, a little envious). I have been working at turning that energy into a catalyst, using these fellow men (and women) as examples that I too can create whatever I wish around my lifestyle and knowledge through my passion and experience. They are living proof it is possible!

I read the list of cities that would be a part of the book tour and was happy to see New York made the cut! So I rsvp'd and put this important date on the calendar.

 You know you've reached the big time when you get a sandwich board! 

The chat and Q & A session was held at Jack Rabbit Sports on the Upper west Side of Manhattan. There was also a group run in Central Park beforehand, which I wasn't able to attend due to work- but what a cool way to get some one on one time with Matt and other plant-based, or plant-curious runners!

It was fun to see that Matt was, as he said, “a regular guy doing extraordinary things” through a plant-based (Matt is a vegan) diet, via research, exploration and experimentation. He has really embraced the journey of running, goal achieving, and creating a community of like-minded people. Many of the personalities that Matt interviews for his blog and his pod-casts are people whose books I proudly display and who inspire me daily (There is a list of resources that Matt lists at the end of the book as well as on his website). I am working on compiling a list of my own to feature here on Fast-Paced Foodie too.

 The real deal! A book! Someday :)

Here are some of my favorite takeaways from the book signing:

 “Don't be afraid to fail.”

“Don't sell yourself short.”

“Pick the impossible."

“Thinking big inspires action and motivation."

“The key to adding distance and tackling great distances (UltraMan Marathons, 50k's, etc) is to really slow down”.

I really appreciated Matt breaking down a lot of his day to day training and how he has made running practices recommended by the pros work for him. I have read all about the 180 steps per minute theory (you can see videos here) but I always had a hard time figuring out how to make that work for me. Matt gave advice for quickening your steps by using a treadmill, a watch, or even downloading songs with a beat that mirrors that tempo. Scott Jurek also uses this method as he believes your “form takes care of itself” when you apply this technique. It forces proper alignment of the skeleton and muscles, while shortening your stride. I have a previous blog post where I share tips on how to check-in on your form while out on the road. 

 Our chance to say hello. It was great being able to chat face to face.

Matt also spent time sharing his ideas on why being plant-powered works so well for him and other superstars of the endurance world. It allows for faster recovery time between workouts, therefore one can get in more workouts, and increase strength, speed, and stamina more efficiently than the competition. I am a big believer (as is Matt) that the real secret to plant-powered living is that we consumer more nutrient-dense foods, therefore, we also give our body the tools it needs to recover and fuel in a clean and sustainable way. By eating more fruits and vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, we have more antioxidants, higher quality digestion and absorption, and no bi-products or contaminants found in processed or animal foods.

The link between diet and exercise should come as no surprise, yet sometimes we overlook the congruity of our lifestyles. When you work hard and take time to make exercise a part of your day, you will honor that effort by choosing foods that do the same. This begins to color your world, and you will find that you genuinely enjoy and thrive when you take responsibility and care into consideration at each meal time and when choosing activity over reamaining sedentary.

The No Meat Athlete book features has great recipes that would be welcome in any kitchen! He uses simple ingredients, and follows a very similar method to myself when planning and prepping meals. I look forward to playing with his "Incredible Veggie Burger Formula".

The second part of the book focuses more on running, training, and techniques. And he explains Fartlek runs in an easy to understand manner (thank you Matt!)

Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking to add more plants to their diet and explore their fitness through running. Matt's approach is simple, realistic, and comes from a  genuine place.  Another aspect I truly enjoyed was the contributions by professional athletes throughout the book. It is so nice to have direct experience as a testiment to this rewarding way of life- and Matt through this book (and his blog) give the movement even more credibility and momentum.

 Don't worry Matt, I will. #plantpowered

You can find out where to purchase your copy here.

If you are a "No Meat Athlete" please share below!  I look forward to connecting with fellow fans.

Stay well,

FPF

P.S. I found my famished self at Soom Soom Vegetarian Bar following the Q & A session. I chose a whole wheat pita with falafel and took full advantage of the salad bar, filling up with cabbage, pickles, and other slaws of goodness. Living in New York has its fast-food perks! Perfect for a girl on the move ;)

It tasted even better than it looks!

P.S.S. On a personal note, I was super proud of myself for raising my hand and sharing my suggestion to a fellow audience member during the Q & A. I could feel color rising in my cheeks, and my voice crack, but I was so glad I did it! As I work to find my voice, and get to the place where I can talk infront of a room of full of people, I honor these baby steps of greatness and fear conquoring! 

What baby step will you take today???