MAN v FAT’s membership not only helps men across the country to lose weight and improve their mental health, it often acts as a springboard to other physical activity, too.
For MAN v FAT member Adam Binns, who takes part in our Warrington club, the programme has been an inspiration to a range of additional exercise.
“I feel like the monthly subscription we pay isn’t just for a Tuesday, but the kick-start to all of the extras,” he told us.
“The community is a massive part of it, as well as the extended community from the other groups met via other players and the XI’s setup. Everyone’s there for the same reason, so there’s no judgement – just support, advice, and a bit of healthy competition. Whether it’s tips on food, encouragement after a tough week, or just having a laugh during games, it keeps you motivated.It feels like you’re part of something, not just trying to do it on your own.
“The opportunity to play matches in other groups outside of just a Tuesday is a big part, I am now playing football at least 4 times a week as well as going on daily 5-10km walks and daily spin classes.”
Since getting started on the programme several years ago, Adam has lost over 30kgs and is well on the way to lose more, too. But why has it worked for him?
He added: “It’s the combination of structure, accountability, and football. The weekly weigh-ins keep you honest, but it never feels like pressure in a negative way – it’s more that you don’t want to let yourself or your team down.
“Even when I know I’ve had a bad week, the tracking aspect of scoring goals still makes me record truthfully, own the gain and come back and lose the week after.
“I have just come off the back of winning a treble in the final draft season with my team, as well as myself and my co-captain winning the personal weight loss awards, so having that buy-in and consistency from a full team has helped achieve those accomplishments and motivation for us all to keep on track.
“Having football as part of the programme makes it enjoyable rather than a chore, and it’s something you actually look forward to each week. Over time, that consistency really adds up, at one point I had gone from 132kg down to 84kg and hitting BMI within a year, and I don’t think I’d have stuck at it without that balance.
“Being a part of the XI’s setup has also helped, giving me a competitive football match to look forward to every couple of weeks, something I thought I would never be able to do again at 36 years of age.”
Family has proven to be a big part of Adam’s inspiration, wanting to be a healthier and happier dad. Not only has that weight fallen off, but he’s in a much better place overall.
He said: “In the long term, it’s about maintaining what I’ve achieved and continuing to improve my overall fitness and lifestyle. I want to stay active, keep playing football, and build habits that stick for life. I want to live inside BMI for an extended period of time, instead of just hitting it and celebrating then bringing in old habits.
“It’s not just about weight loss anymore – it’s about feeling healthier, having more energy, and setting a good example for the people around me. My mental health has improved so much since being at MAN v FAT, as well as my family life, feeling fitter and healthier for my young children which has in turn made me a better dad.”
If Adam’s story has inspired you, he’s got a clear message for anyone thinking of joining up.
“Just go for it – you’ve got nothing to lose except the weight,” he added.
“If you are already thinking about MAN v FAT, then it’s clear you already know you need to do something about your fitness or weight, and just need that kick start into accountability and being around people in the same boat.
“It can feel like a big step at first, but everyone’s in the same boat when they start. You don’t need to be fit or a good footballer, you just need to show up. If you stick with it, the results will come. Winning Biggest Loser last season and hitting BMI Boss in my case shows what’s possible, but more importantly, you’ll feel better in yourself.”
Want to follow Adam’s lead?
You can sign up for MAN v FAT Warrington by visiting the club’s homepage. We look forward to seeing you soon!
