Anna Henderson Advocates Veganism in Professional Cycling After Olympic Success

Anna Henderson, Britain’s first cycling medalist at the Paris Olympics, has attributed her impressive performance to her vegan lifestyle, which she believes has enhanced her abilities as a rider. The 25-year-old secured a surprising second place in the road race time trial amidst challenging weather conditions in Paris. Henderson, who rides for Team Jumbo Visma-Lease a Bike, has been an outspoken advocate for veganism, stating that her dietary choice has positively impacted her cycling career. Reflecting on her journey, Henderson admitted she was initially resistant to the idea of adopting a vegan diet, expressing a love for meat. However, she now feels that the transition has been beneficial, stating, “I feel no difference, I feel better.” She emphasized the support she has received from her team regarding her dietary choices and expressed a desire for more riders in the professional peloton to embrace a similar lifestyle, citing the positive changes it has brought to her life. During her post-race comments, Henderson noted the treacherous conditions of the course, which she found unexpectedly slippery. She is not alone in her dietary choice; former Australian cyclist Adam Hansen has also credited his vegan diet for his longevity in the sport. While vegan cyclists face challenges in meeting their protein needs, they are encouraged to consume more calories and frequent meals to support their rigorous training and recovery.