Meghann Nevada Tiegs

Name: Meghann Nevada Tiegs
Year of Birth: 1980
Height: 5'3
Weight: 119
Birthplace: Prince George, BC
Current Residence: Calgary, Alberta
Sports: Competitive Fitness/Bikini Model, Yoga

Tell us a little about yourself, what you do for a living, what hobbies / interests / passions you have
I am a personal trainer and nutrition coach. When I am not in the gym helping clients achieve their fitness goals I am in the gym training hard for my next fitness competition or off to a yoga class.

Why did you become vegan?
I became vegan after my dad was diagnosed with Cancer. It was something I had considered prior to that but had never wanted to stray from the traditional body building style diet for fear of it having a negative effect on my ability to gain or maintain lean muscle. After my dads diagnosis (being the self educator that I am) I felt it was time to take a more serious look at Veganism and I began researching, reading and watching what ever information I could get my hands on to get to the truth about a Vegan diet vs traditional western nutrition and the benefits to our health.

When and why did you become interested in fitness?
I was active in sports from a young age and continued being active in sports until my mid teens. As with most teens, my social life took over and that spilled into my twenties. Fast forward a few years, with thirty in the not so distant future I realized I wanted to take control of my health and start my thirties in the best shape of my. A few months in to my new fitness regime I was seeing huge changes in my physique (as well as confidence & energy), I was worried that I might fall off the wagon and go back to old habits. So, having no real idea about it, I decided to commit to a fitness competition. I knew if I committed publicly there was no way I'd not follow through. And so began my journey. Before I had even stepped on stage for my first show I was planning my next show.

How would you describe your nutrition program?
I eat mostly fresh fruits and vegetables. Lots of leafy greens — Kale/Spinach/Berries are staples. Avocado, coconut oils, seeds for healthy fats. I am up at 4 am daily to train clients so greens smoothies are a part of my daily nutrition. I can load them up with all the nutrients I need and get them in when I am in a hurry. Because of my long days and early starts I can be eating 6-7 meals a day.

How would you describe your training program?
I get bored really quickly with cardio so I like to do HIIT or Tabata style cardio sessions to keep me motivated. I love Sprints, 20 minutes of sprint (30 sec on, 30 off) — short and sweet. Plyos are an absolute MUST for my lower body days. I do weights six days a week; depending on where I am at in my training I switch it up, but I prefer hitting each body part twice a week (chest/back, shoulders/bis/tris, lower), keeps my workouts intense and my body burning maximum calories both during and after my workouts. Yoga is an essential part of my fitness program.

What kind of supplements do you use if any, and why?
BCAAs & Vega sport performance protein powder or Sun Warrior Protein Powder

How do people react when they find out you are vegan?
The usual responses: Surprise, skepticism.

What are some common misconceptions about veganism?
As with most vegans, the most common response is: how do you get your protein? I also am often asked what exactly I eat. Mostly people respond with “I don't know how you could do it, I could never give up meat (or cheese...people love their cheese!)

What do you think the most important aspect of training is?
I think nutrition and training go hand in hand. I believe we need to start by looking at what we put in our body to support the work we put our physical body through. Its all about recovery.

What do you like best about being vegan?
The way I feel! My body feels good eating vegan. I feel energetic, focused and healthy. I know that my body is being fueled by clean whole foods and I can feel good about knowing I am not supporting industries that promote harming animals.

What do you like best about being fit?
Inspiring others to make a change in their lives and become more fit and knowing that I am setting an example for my daughter. She is almost 13 and I want her to see what a strong fit female is. I want to be a role model for her.

What advice do you have for people who are just starting out with training?
You will never look back and regret becoming more healthy. Just take that first step and you will be amazed at how you can be in control of improving your quality of life!

What advice do you have for people who are thinking of becoming vegan?
It is easier than you think. People seem to think they could never do it or never give up certain foods. Vegan and meatless products have come such a long way. There are so many resources and websites out there to help you on your journey and you will be surprised how easy it is to connect with other vegans/vegan athletes who can help guide you through the transition.

What motivates you in life?
Helping others. Inspiring others. Educating others. Being the best mother, trainer, coach, friend, partner and competitor I can be.

What do you think of veganbodybuilding.com? Has it helped or inspired you?
Veganbodybuilding.com has been such a valuable resource to me. Its great to have a resource dedicated to Vegan athletes, especially with all the bodybuilding sites out there. It is full of information and I love the nutritional guidance. I have directed many clients and fellow trainers here when they have been considering veganism!