Iain took part in the hugely successful ManVFat programme, playing in the local Bexhill league, read about his journey from signing up to completing his first season.
How did you hear about MANvFAT football?
I have struggled for many of years with my weight, taking part in many diet programs that are available on the market. ManVFat first came to my attention, after speaking to a work colleague, but didn’t take the opportunity at the time, as I was ashamed of the size I was. Then I spoke to one of my friends who had just signed to ManVFat. He had known previous members who took part and informed me that there is nothing to worry about.
Describe your journey with MANvFAT football?
So, I took the plunge and signed up, and thanks to ‘One You East Sussex’ my space was funded. I was very anxious and nervous about the whole prospect, especially as I hadn’t kicked a football (apart from in the garden with my son), for around 15 years. I was excited to get to the start of the program.
What support did you receive?
At the first session, I was really nervous, but was made welcome by Neil our coach. He explained to me how the program works, along with all the previous emails that I had received. Neil was very professional about making everyone feel welcome, and remained so all through the session’s . If we had a bad week on the scales, he would ask if we wanted to talk about it, but always gave helpful information for the following week. During my time on ManVFat, I only put on weight one week out of the 14.
What were your barriers or challenges?
My barriers and challenges were to break down all my walls to get back into my smaller clothes. I made a promise to myself at the beginning of the program not to buy any more bigger clothes.
What were your goals at the start of the programme?
Since joining, I have lost over 18lbs in weight, and I have also got into a smaller jean and shirt size. I now feel more motivated and took part in the Macmillan Cancer Support Mighty Hike earlier this month. This was a 26 mile walk from Brighton Racecourse to Eastbourne, passing over the Sussex Downs, Seven Sisters, Beachy Head and finishing in Eastbourne.
What are your goals now?
My goals when I started was to lose weight, get healthy and eat healthy. My future goals are to carry on losing weight, eating healthy and becoming happier with myself. To keep fit and healthy for my family.
What has been your biggest achievement?
My biggest achievement was taking the plunge and getting on with the program. Everything else fell into place, and I have made some good friends out of it. Due to injuries I picked up along the way, I need to give season 2 a miss, but I will be back once I’m back to 100%. It has been a fantastic journey from start to finish, and I’ve loved every minute of it. So thank you ‘One You East Sussex’ and ManVFat for my journey.
What advice would you give to anyone who is unsure about joining?
If I was to give any advice to anyone then it would be this; sign up and enjoy it. It’s a fantastic journey and you will make good friends along the way. As you work as a team, you don’t want to let your teammates down, this helps you stay focused with what you have to do. You’ll find the whole team are with you and support you, you will achieve everything.
If you live in East Sussex, we can provide FREE space in the Bexhill, Eastbourne & Hastings league to help you on your weight loss journey.
