Frequently Asked Questions

What is a vegan?

We are not getting involved in that debate! The Vegan Society defines veganism as “a way of living which seeks to exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose.”

We are happy to adopt that definition. Aspects of the definition are open to interpretation and we encourage each member to apply their own interpretation. We do not welcome members imposing their definition of vegan or passing judgment on the vegan credentials of their clubmates. If you have a genuine concern, please contact your regional representative or the club secretary.

We are however a club for vegans. Although some of our local groups may welcome non-vegans to events and training, club membership and purchase of club kit are restricted to vegans. If you eat a plant-based diet or are in the process of transitioning to veganism, join our Facebook group and we will provide all the support you need to complete your journey to cruelty-free living.

How should I choose the right vegan running shoe?

Most running shoes are made with vegan materials but some manufacturers use glues that are of animal origin.

Vegan8 contacted most of the major brands to enquire about their use of animal products. Find their latest survey here.

PETA has produced a less comprehensive but more current guide for men’s and ladies’ running shoes.

Establishing the vegan credentials of the product is only half of the story though. Depending on your physical makeup and personal preferences, you may prefer a minimal shoe that reflects the natural shape of your foot or a cushioned shoe. Depending on the shape of your foot and your running action, you may be better suited to a wide or narrow toe box and you may require some support for your arches.

If you aren’t sure, we would recommend visiting a running shop that can offer gait analysis. They will look at your running action on a treadmill and help you to choose a shoe with the appropriate level of support.

Can I get sufficient protein from a vegan diet?

All protein in all food types originated from a plant. As vegans, we prefer to consume them from the source without processing them through the body of another animal.

The Vegan Society and Nutrition Facts provide a useful overview of plant-based nutrition.  The Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition and the Vegetarian Resource Group provides more comprehensive studies.

Veg Kitchen provides one of the many charts which set out some of the best sources of plant-based protein.

Many sources including this BBC article suggest that most people actually consume much more than the recommended amount of protein and that this excess may actually be damaging to health.

For more on nutrition, please read our Nutrition FAQs page.

What should I eat before and after I exercise?

No Meat Athlete and PETA provide suggested pre-workout meal ideas.

For recovery meals, we have suggestions from One Green Planet.

For more on nutrition, please read our Nutrition FAQs page.

Which health charities conduct or fund animal research?

Follow the link below for a list of health charities and whether they conduct or fund animal research. The list is not definitive, as policies change. Please contact Animal Aid using the contact form at the base of the page if you have received a reply from a charity about their animal testing policy so that the list is kept up to date. You can also order a wallet-sized list from Animal Aid.

http://www.victimsofcharity.org/which-charities-fund-vivisection/

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