Josh Witts, once weighing over 23 stone (148.5kg), has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding almost five stone within a year of joining the MAN V Fat group in Gloucester. Battling constant pain and fatigue due to his weight, Josh found solace in a local FA-accredited health and wellbeing football programme, leading to significant positive changes in his life.
Beyond shedding unwanted weight, the program fostered a shift in lifestyle and a holistic improvement in overall wellbeing for Josh and his fellow participants. Joining the club not only propelled Josh’s journey towards physical transformation but also revived his confidence and joy, enabling him to engage more actively with his family.
MAN v FAT targets men with a BMI over 27.5, offering support and motivation through a combination of football and lifestyle coaching sessions. Participants are weighed at each session before taking part in a 30-minute game of six-a-side football. The program also introduces incentives for teams that achieve substantial weight loss, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collective achievement among the players.
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Expressing his initial frustrations of being the largest individual in social settings, Josh shared his proactive decision to address his weight issues, signifying a pivotal turning point in his life. Public Health England data reveals the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Gloucestershire, underscoring the significance of programs like MAN V Fat in the region.
Richard Crick, Head of MAN v FAT, highlights the remarkable impact of the program on participants, emphasizing the improvements in mental health, sense of community, and collaboration experienced by the players. The success of the Gloucester club, with 43 men collectively shedding over 42 stone, serves as a testament to the potency of a shared journey towards wellness and transformation.
Gloucester’s MAN v FAT Football Club, meeting every Thursday evening at the Oxstalls Sports Park on Tewkesbury Road, has become a beacon of support and achievement for men seeking positive lifestyle changes.