Why did you seek our MAN v FAT’s support in the first place?
After years of struggling with my weight, I needed to make a commitment to myself to achieve my goals. I had tried weight loss groups etc, but when I stumbled across MAN v FAT online, the team aspect and accountability really appealed to me. I have never been one to do things just for myself, so the idea of contributing to something and not letting my side down sounded perfect.
I found out quite early on in my journey that I would be donating a kidney to my dad who had been diagnosed with severe kidney failure so the timing for focussing my goals increased even more as I was in no condition to donate the kidney at the weight I was at the time.
Talk to us about why MAN v FAT has been such an important part of your lifeMAN v FAT has been a massive part of my life since day one! From starting as a player to becoming Head Coach at Maidstone, achieving the Coach of the Year award – regional and national – in 2024, and now this honour, MAN v FAT and its values have been integral in everything I do, and all aspects of my day to day life. I have experienced so much from being a part of this, I have visited many places, met some amazing people, and am hugely grateful to be a part of it. I feel it brings out the best in me and suits my personality and traits brilliantly. I am in daily contact with my players, be it for support or just a chat. I cannot imagine what life would be like without being involved in MAN v FAT.
How has it changed your current future health and wellbeing?
I have found since being a part of MAN v FAT, that I am so much more aware of how to look after myself both physically and mentally and I strive to educate myself as much as I can in order to help my players understand these aspects also. I am now a Level 2 in Understanding Nutrition as well as a qualified Mental Health First Aider and I take having the knowledge in these areas very seriously.
An added bonus is being able to extend this help not only to my players, but to my family and encourage positive behaviours in these areas, which has led to a well balanced home where we can openly discuss anything and resolve any issues as a team – just like at a session!
How proud are you of the contribution to MAN v FAT’s community and in supporting the men in your area?
Without MAN v FAT coming to Maidstone, there would be a gaping hole in the lives of so many men in the area. The reasons for attending a session with us may have begun with wanting to lose weight, but alongside this, so many come for their mental health, to meet new friends and to be a part of something.
I am proud that as the Coach, I am able to facilitate this and keep our club thriving by always striving to keep things fresh and fair, implement new and exciting challenges where possible, and to always be a safe and welcoming place to be. I have been lucky enough to cover and visit different clubs across the South, and I always take this approach with me as I believe every member deserves to feel cared about.I am proud of MAN v FAT in their support via the virtual platform and their quest to widen the platform to extend the help offered via mental health apps and healthy food/exercise options.
Why do you think MAN v FAT works as a programme to support men of all ages?
To me, there is no age limit on when it’s time to make positive changes. This programme is suitable for all age groups as whilst it is competitive and physical, it should never be too much or too little and every single person involved is made to feel like they bring something to the table no matter what their age group.
I have had the pleasure of seeing many men from different age groups mixing with each other and having fun, making jokes and swapping food and exercise ideas regardless of what year they were born in!
Sum up MAN v FAT and its community in three words
Supportive. Unique. Family.
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