Vegan Powerlifter Breaks State Records at USPA Nationals

Daniel Austin, known as the “Vegan Meathead,” made headlines at the 2024 USPA Drug Tested Nationals in Las Vegas by setting three state powerlifting records. Competing in the 75kg weight class for the 40-44 age group, Austin achieved notable feats, including benching 292 lbs (132.5 kg) and deadlifting 502 lbs (227.7 kg)—both state records. He also secured a state record with his total lift of 1229 lbs (557.5 kg) after squatting 435 lbs (197.3 kg) twice.

Despite his impressive achievements, Austin was candid about his performance, noting on Instagram that he fell short in one area and plans to address it with his coach. “Prep and weight management went superbly,” he wrote, “but my performance on the platform today did not.”

A long-time vegan and seasoned athlete, Austin has been competing seriously in powerlifting since 2011. His achievements include multiple first-place National medals and a notable second-place finish at Ireland’s IPL Drug Tested World Championships in 2019. His upcoming audiobook, The Way of the Vegan Meathead: Eating for Strength, promises to share insights from his journey.

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