The club is set to officially kick off on 21st May 2025, offering local men a unique opportunity to improve their health and wellbeing through the sport of rugby.
MAN v FAT is specifically designed for men with a BMI of 27.5 or higher, combining the camaraderie and competitiveness of rugby with structured weight loss support. Participants engage in weekly touch rugby games, receive guidance from health and wellbeing coaches, and benefit from a supportive community environment. Over 90% of players experience weight loss and improved fitness through the programme.
Huddersfield Giants Community Trust is a non-profit organisation that delivers a range of sporting, educational, and health-based initiatives to engage and inspire the local community. Through partnerships and community-focused programmes, the Trust aims to promote active lifestyles and social wellbeing.
Jordan Foster, Head of Community at Huddersfield Giants Community Trust, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying: “We are absolutely thrilled to partner with MAN v FAT and join forces in supporting our community’s health and wellbeing. The concept behind MAN v FAT is fantastic – it’s not only competitive but also educational, offering men the chance to take control of their lifestyle in a supportive and motivating environment.
“When speaking to Karl at MAN v FAT, I was surprised by the statistics around the lack of male participation in traditional weight management programmes.
“Many simply don’t feel that these programmes suit them. The MAN v FAT programme goes beyond just weight management – it also offers weekly physical activity and exercise, which is key to creating sustainable lifestyle changes. Offering something like this, tailored specifically to men, is a brilliant idea.
“This partnership represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to creating positive change, and we look forward to seeing the incredible impact we can make together.”
The Huddersfield club will join a growing network of MAN v FAT Rugby clubs across the UK, including recent launches in Bristol, Nottingham, Cheltenham, and Leicester. These programmes have already seen significant success, with participants collectively losing substantial weight and reporting improved mental health and social connections.
Karl White, from MAN v FAT HQ, added: “It’s been a joy to see that no matter the shape of the ball, the weekly weigh-in and game is somewhere that our players build confidence, make new friends, and improve their mental health while losing weight. In many cases, we’re providing men who haven’t picked up an oval ball in years the chance to get back into playing a sport that they love.”
Men aged 18 and over with a BMI of 27.5 or higher who are interested in joining the Huddersfield MAN v FAT Rugby club can find more information and register at https://manvfatrugby.com/club/huddersfield/. The programme offers an inclusive environment, regardless of prior rugby experience, and focuses on fostering sustainable lifestyle changes through physical activity and team support.
