Miguel Pascual Cabrera – Powerlifter & Coach

credit: @migueanimalpower

Miguel is a champion powerlifter from Spain who has made a name for himself as one of the country’s strongest junior athletes, all on a 100% plant-based lifestyle. Born and raised in Spain, Miguel began his vegan journey at 18 after a powerful conversation with a young athlete he was coaching. Inspired to learn more, he watched the documentary Dominion, which became the turning point in his ethical awakening.

Miguel discovered powerlifting shortly after transitioning to veganism, finding in the sport a way to channel his natural strength and discipline. He quickly rose through the ranks, earning the title of Junior National Champion in the -83 kg category and winning the Spanish Cup in the Absolute Squat division.

Now taking a step back from competition, Miguel remains dedicated to training and coaching, while exploring new challenges like combat sports. Through his lifestyle and achievements, he continues to prove that strength and compassion can go hand in hand.

Q&A

Please share your vegan story. 

My vegan journey began when I was 18, and funnily enough, it started thanks to a 14-year-old basketball player I was coaching. She told me she was vegetarian, and that instantly caught my attention. I’ve always cared deeply about the well-being of my athletes, so I asked her why. She said her aunt had shown her a documentary about how animals are treated in the industry. It really struck me; if someone so young could be that aware, why wasn’t I?

That led me to do research of my own. I decided to try the typical 21-day vegan challenge, mainly as a personal test. But the more I learned, the more I realized this wasn’t just a diet, it was about ethics. Watching the documentary Dominion was a turning point. It opened my eyes completely, and from that moment on, I knew I didn’t want to support that system in any way.

Around that time, Toby came into my life, a beautiful little dog I adopted, and who I love deeply. Bonding with him changed the way I saw animals. I realized that all of them – dogs, pigs, cows, chickens – want to live, feel, and experience joy. That emotional connection with Toby gave me the final push. I understood I could be strong, healthy, and perform at a high level without contributing to the suffering of others. So, I committed to be vegan, and I’ve never looked back.

What made you decide to take up powerlifting and how long have you been powerlifting competitively?

I started powerlifting around the same time I transitioned to a vegan lifestyle. Strength has always come naturally to me. Since I was young, I’ve felt powerful and capable when lifting. Discovering powerlifting gave me the structure and purpose I needed to channel that energy.

I’ve been competing for several years now. I became Junior National Champion in the -83 kg category, and also won the Spanish Cup in the Absolute Squat category. My best lifts are 281 kg squat, 180 kg bench press, and 260 kg deadlift, for a 721 kg total. I’m proud to be among the strongest junior lifters in the country, all on a 100% plant-based diet.

Have you noticed any differences in recovery, performance, or mental clarity since going vegan?

Absolutely. More than anything physical, the biggest change has been mental clarity. Knowing that every lift, every training session, every competition is driven by a greater purpose – fighting for the animals – gives me powerful focus.

It’s not just about performance anymore. It’s about being a living example of what’s possible. That clarity keeps me grounded and makes me feel stronger than ever, inside and out.

How do your teammates or competitors respond when they find out you’re vegan? And what misconceptions have you encountered about veganism and strength sports?

At first, people are usually surprised; there’s still a myth that you need animal products to be strong. But once they see my numbers and how I perform, that perception changes quickly.

Over time, teammates have grown curious and asked questions. I’m always open to sharing what I’ve learned, without imposing. The biggest misconception is that you can’t build muscle or compete at a high level without animal products. I’m living proof that’s simply not true.

credit: @migueanimalpower

What type of training do you do in preparation for a competition?

My training is structured in blocks: accumulation, intensification, and then peaking. I focus heavily on the main lifts – squat, bench, and deadlift – also targeting weak points, mobility, and active recovery.

Every phase has its purpose, and consistency is everything. For me, training is just as much mental as it is physical.

When preparing for a competition, do you follow a certain meal plan? Or do you eat what you normally eat day-to-day? 

Throughout the year, I eat a balanced and stable plant-based diet. But during the final three months before competition, especially in the volume and peaking phases, I go very strict. I weigh and track everything, and don’t eat out. It’s part of how I get into the competition mindset; it helps me focus fully.

I’ve also done aggressive weight cuts when necessary. I work with a sports nutritionist, and we follow a protocol that includes high water intake for 3-4 days, manipulating carbs and sodium. That usually allows me to cut around 4-6 kg in the days leading up to the meet.

Do you have any go-to meals or snacks that you rely on during intense training periods?

I like to keep it simple and practical. One staple is a post-workout meal with rice and tofu, plus some veggies and healthy fats. I also use snacks like dates with nuts, hummus on toast, or fruit with a dense carb source depending on the session.

The key is easy-to-digest, energy-dense, whole foods.

Do you have any training tips for anyone new to powerlifting?

Definitely. Three things:

1. Technique first, ego later. Learn to move well before you lift heavy.
2. Be consistent and patient. Strength takes time and discipline.
3. Surround yourself with people who elevate you. A good coach, team, or community makes a big difference.

And if you’re vegan or thinking about it, know that it’s 100% possible. You just have to commit and prove it with your actions.

What’s next for Miguel? 

Right now, I’m stepping away from competition for a while to focus on coaching and helping others reach their full potential. I’m still training hard and staying strong, and recently I’ve also started practicing combat sports to challenge myself in new ways.

This phase is about growing beyond the platform – physically, mentally, and professionally – while staying true to my values.

Miguel visits @theanimalacademy.refugio and makes a new friend credit: @migueanimalpower

Quick questions for Miguel

Are there any vegan athletes you look up to or that inspire you?

Honestly, I’ve never had a specific vegan role model. I’ve always focused on being the best version of myself. That said, I admire all high-level vegan athletes who are breaking barriers and representing the movement with strength.

What has been your favourite lifting experience (competitive or not)?

Winning the Spanish Cup as a Junior was definitely a highlight. That moment meant a lot to me and marked a big milestone in my career.

What’s your favourite vegan meal to eat?

I don’t have one specific favourite. I just love plant-based food in general. That said, I eat a lot of rice and tofu, it’s a staple for me.

What’s your favourite vegan dish to make?

I like to mix things up. I don’t have a go-to recipe, but I enjoy creating meals that are nutritious, tasty, and support my training goals.

Connect with Miguel

Instagram: @migueanimalpower