If you think a plant-based diet isn’t for athletes, this guy will rock your world!

His name is Rich Roll and he is inspiring to say the least.

On his 40th birthday he was 50 pounds overweight and unsatisfied with himself. He began eating a vegetarian diet, soon after made the switch to a vegan diet, and began training for the Hawaii Ultraman: a 3 day double Ironman triathlon that circumnavigates the Big Island of Hawaii.

Not only has Rich been a participant of this 320-mile event — he has been a top finisher at the Ultraman World Championships.

Earlier this year, he completed the EPIC 5 Challenge entailing 5 Ironman-distance triathlons on 5 Hawaiian islands… in less than a week!!

To put this in perspective, the event included a 6.2 mile swim, a 90 mile bike trek, another 170 miles of cycling, and a 52.4 mile (2 marathons back to back) run. Insane!!!!

Two years later, his transformation from an average American into one of the “25 Fittest Guys in the World” — and PETA’s list of “Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrities” is impressive. However, his awareness of health and his devotion to family is what I found most impressive. Take a look for yourself – read this awe-inspiring Mind Body Green interview, “Q & A with Rich Roll: From Down-and-Out at 40 to Plant-Based Ultraman.” Follow Rich on Twitter or check out his site at RichRoll.com.

WARNING: Don’t be surprised if you feel compelled to train for a triathlon after reading the above article.

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