Amateur London football clubs have helped 950 men in the capital lose over three tonnes.
The MAN v FAT football clubs take place across the capital in areas including Leyton, Bromley, Westminster and Enfield.
Aimed at men with a BMI of higher than 27.5, MAN v FAT football clubs have signed up more than 8,500 players taking part in over 170 clubs across the UK.
The programme was created by Andrew Shanahan, who wanted to develop a weight loss plan that combined the beautiful game with achievable goals for men.
Players are weighed before each match, which consists of a 30-minute game of six-a-side football. Weight loss and match scores then contribute to teams’ league positions within a club.
Mark Curson, a player at the Romford club who has over four stone with the help of the programme, said: “MAN v FAT has been a fantastic addition to my week. There is so much that makes it enjoyable, like getting back and playing with like-minded individuals on a weekly basis without being judged for your ability or fitness level.
“Joining MAN v FAT has definitely helped me change my lifestyle. I now have a much better relationship with food and I'm much more conscious of what I eat especially during the week allowing for treats at the weekend and not all the time. I have more self-confidence in the way I look and a lot more energy now I'm not carrying around so much excess weight.”
He added: “Whether you want to meet new people, get back playing, or are struggling in your weight loss journey this is a great way to ensure you exercise at least once a week. It really helps focus your mind on diet for the good of your friends and teammates.”
In London, MAN v FAT partners with clubs including Millwall FC and Bromley FC.
Dan Church, the Regional Manager for MAN v FAT Football in London said 2022 had been an “incredible year” for the programme.
“All of our London clubs have spaces for new players, so if you are looking to make a positive change in your life by getting active and improving your health - we will be with you every step of the way.”
Off the pitch, MAN v FAT players receive healthy meal recipe ideas and tips on general fitness. Players are also given access to The Other Room Virtual Gym, so they can train at home.
The total amount of weight lost by MAN v FAT players in the UK currently stands at around 480,000lb.
There are over 20 million overweight and obese men in the UK, accounting for nearly 7 out of ten men.
