MAN v FAT is fortunate to work with a host of great local authorities across the country, supporting men of all ages to get started with our weight loss communities, thanks to funded spaces being made available.
Those funded clubs give men in those areas a springboard into making their first steps to improve their health and wellbeing.
Among those funded areas are some of our clubs in Kent, where Medway Council have been a long term partner of MAN v FAT in the area.
Medway Council support the Chatham, Gillingham and Strood clubs and coach Michael Gabell looks after the lads in the first two locations.
Michael believes the funding makes a huge difference to the two clubs, saying: “I believe this funding is vital for Chatham, Gillingham, and every club where it is available.
“There are many reasons for this, but most importantly, it provides a crucial starting point for people who might not otherwise sign up, whether due to concerns about their ability or the misconception that they are “too big” to begin playing football.
“The 14-week funded period removes that initial financial barrier and prevents people from delaying participation until the next payday.
“Although I do not have access to specific costings or statistics, I strongly believe that the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. If the majority of players achieve even a 5% to 10% reduction in body weight, the potential savings to the NHS in future healthcare costs are likely to be significant.”
Michael has supported many men to make significant changes to their lives during his time as Health & Wellbeing coach in the two Kent clubs, with weight loss always strong in the two clubs. But how has he made that happen?
He added: “I approach weight loss as a marathon, not a sprint. Long-term, sustainable change is far more effective than short-term “yo-yo” dieting, which often leads to setbacks.
“At my clubs, I focus on embedding small, manageable improvements, encouraging players to be just 1% better each day. Over time, those small changes build into significant, lasting results.
“Just as importantly, we create a supportive and understanding environment. Players are never criticised for gaining weight. Life includes celebrations, weddings, birthdays, holidays, and those moments matter.
“The key is helping players draw a line under those periods quickly, get back on track, and prevent a few off-days from turning into a longer setback.
“I also believe my own weight loss journey has played a big part in shaping this approach. It allows me to relate to the challenges players face and promote a realistic, sustainable mindset that leads to long-term success.”
Michael’s care and attention to his players is reaping the rewards and he has enjoyed his time as a coach so far at MAN v FAT. And he admits that giving his lads the chance to regain their confidence is a huge driver in his weekly sessions.
He reflected: “There are so many positives to coaching at MAN v FAT Chatham and Gillingham that I could talk about it all day.
“For me, the most rewarding part is seeing the incredible transformations in the players. Watching someone who, in their first few sessions, would try to blend into the background go on to build the confidence to captain a team is genuinely inspiring.
“Seeing players take part in “Biggest Loser” games, push themselves on the pitch, and even go on to sign up for marathons to raise money for good causes is hugely motivating.
“What stands out most is the impact it has on their everyday lives. I’ve had players tell me they joined because they were too tired to play with their children, and now they feel full of energy again. Being part of that journey is a real privilege.
“I also love the strong sense of community. The way players support each other – both on and off the pitch – creates an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated.
“I feel very lucky to have a role that I genuinely enjoy and that makes such a positive difference in people’s lives.”
Want to get involved?
You can find out more about the leagues in the Medway area of Kent by visiting our landing page for more details.
If you’re a local authority who’d like to find out more about bringing MAN v FAT to your area, please contact Public Health Contracts Manager Karl White on karl@manvfat.com!
