MAN v FAT is fortunate to have some exceptional coaches supporting its members up and down the country, both with their physical and mental wellbeing.
In her time working with the programme, Becky Balzano has created a supportive and vibrant community in Cambridge, helping men to make significant lifestyle improvements.
We caught up with her to get the lowdown on the culture she’s built at the club.
The lads in Cambridge have strong individual and collective weight loss outcomes. What has been the secret of their and your success?
For me, it always comes back to relationships. I take a coaching approach grounded in the spirit of Motivational Interviewing so trusting the players to know their own lives, helping them figure out what they’re ready for, and supporting them to make changes that actually stick.
It’s about championing them, not telling them what to do. I really encourage them to see their off-scale wins, make sustainable changes, I encourage them to learn about nutrition by sending them resources, videos or articles and I also encourage them to ask me questions.
From time to time, I get them to do a reset and reflect on their goals, progress and next steps. And I always offer them individual calls if they want to talk away from the pitch side.
Plus I add in Coaches Challenges based on different areas of health so it might be a step challenge, a nutrition change or a mental health activity. Pre games warms ups are my next focus to help prevent injuries!
But it’s definitely not just me. The players also support one another on and off the pitch.
I’ve got brilliant assistant coaches. They help me keep everything running smoothly and pick up any balls I drop (literally and figuratively), a fantastic HQ team who are quick to support with the behind-the-scenes admin, Adbi has been awesome lately and referees who create a fair, safe and enjoyable environment each week.
I’ve also been really lucky to have encouragement and support from people like Dan Church, who’ve helped me get settled into the role.
That combination, strong relationships, the right support, and a genuinely positive environment, is what allows the players to thrive.
You were nominated for Coach of the Year this year – how much of a boost was that news and how have you gone about building a positive club culture in your time with us so far?
Honestly, it was a huge boost. Coaching can be quite behind-the-scenes at times, so to be recognised like that meant a lot, especially knowing it reflects the progress the lads are making.
In terms of culture, I focus on connection and consistency. I keep in touch with players regularly, checking in, encouraging, and celebrating wins (big or small). I also encourage them to share their journey, which helps build pride and accountability within the group.
I talk about the programme a lot in my wider work and on LinkedIn, because I genuinely believe in what we’re doing, and that helps bring in like-minded people.
We’re also building community beyond the pitch, so things like entering local charity events to encourage some of them to take their first steps into a relay race, and setting up a bit of friendly rivalry between clubs with “derby”- style matches. That sense of belonging, team spirit and shared purpose is what really makes the difference.
Why should guys in the area consider joining MAN v FAT?
Because it works! And it works in a way that feels realistic and supportive.
Just as importantly for me, MAN v FAT also impacts the lives of those around the guys; many talk to their partners, are better role models for their kids, and tell their friends.
It’s accessible, welcoming, and designed for men who want to improve their health without feeling judged or overwhelmed. You’re not just turning up for a game of football, you’re getting proper support around your lifestyle too.
That includes 1:1 nutrition and health coaching, weekly accountability, and access to tools that make a real difference, like mental health support through JAAQ, discounted access to Nutracheck, and a full player portal with resources and guidance.
On top of that, games are run with an FA-qualified referee, so it’s structured, fair and enjoyable.
But more than anything, it’s the environment. It’s supportive, it’s motivating, and you’re surrounded by other lads who are all working towards the same goal, feeling better, moving more, and getting back in control of their health.
Want to join Becky’s club?
If you’re keen to get started in Cambridge, take a look at our club homepage for more details. We can’t wait to meet you!
