More than 100 men on the Isle of Wight have collectively lost over a tonne in unwanted weight through football-focused health clubs based in Cowes and Sandown.
The MAN v FAT Football programme has helped 108 local men shed a combined 1,021kg in the past year by combining weekly weigh-ins with 6-a-side football matches. Players earn extra goals based on weight loss, with both match results and health progress contributing to team rankings.
Thanks to support from the Isle of Wight Council, eligible new members can now join the 14-week programme free of charge, with just a £10 deposit refunded upon completion.
Sessions take place at Cowes Enterprise College on Fridays from 19:00 and at The Bay CE High School in Sandown on Tuesdays from 20:00. The programme is aimed at men with a BMI over 27.5.
Mental health nurse Olufemi Gbadegesin, who lost over 8 stone (51.4kg), has praised the programme for helping improve both his physical and mental health:
“I struggled to get the clothes I liked, I couldn’t get into 3XL anymore. I was beginning to feel anxious stepping out of the house. I have gained my confidence back and can socialise without doubt. I’ll fully recommend MAN v FAT for anyone struggling with their bodyweight.”
Club coach Colin Jackson has said the success has gone beyond the scales:
“Both clubs have developed a great community. We’ve introduced new incentives like an Isle of Wight Champions League tournament and member of the month awards. From reversing diabetes to impressive individual transformations, I know there is nothing we can’t do.”
More than 8,400 men take part in over 150 MAN v FAT clubs across the UK, with total weight loss exceeding 850,000 pounds nationally. Members also receive support off the pitch, including recipe ideas, fitness tips and access to a mental health platform via programme partner JAAQ.
For more information, visit www.manvfat.com.
