Since incepting 10 years ago in the UK, MAN v FAT is launching their inaugural soccer clubs in the US, and some are coming to Tampa Bay on July 25th. “MAN v FAT is a program for men with a BMI of 27.5 or over who want to lose weight and play soccer in a welcoming environment,” states the press release.
Across the 150 leagues in MAN v FAT, over 700,000 pounds of weight have been lost (approximately the weight of four space shuttles), boasting a success rate of 90%.
I interviewed four members of MAN v FAT’s UK chapters, and our conversations leaned, not toward fat loss, but mental, familial, and communal gains. More than a means of losing weight, MAN v FAT is a welcomed men’s health movement, a community of positive peer pressure: men in similar situations holding each other accountable in a sporty and welcoming environment.
Club participants report impressive personal success and brotherly camaraderie
The positive, team environment has significantly impacted the personal relationships and mental health of those I interviewed:
“From a social perspective, sports and things like soccer are a massive equalizer that unites us…I can go to games with my kids now…they and I can play with other families…it’s expanded our network,” says Adam, now 33 years old, who lost over 72 lbs.
“I’m showing [my 11-year-old son] a better example, being a role model. I used to not be able to go out and do things, go for a walk up the mountains, and felt terrible that I was holding my son back from reaching the top of the mountain,” says Andrew, age 38, who lost 151 LBS since 2021.
“MAN v FAT is about camaraderie, doing things as a team. I joined for weight loss, but I came out with friends. We’re in it together,” says Ryan, who now runs and coaches a grassroots soccer team. “Fat loss is the start, but mental health is about supporting other men going through the same thing.”
“[MAN v FAT], It’s unraveled me,” says Carl, who is halfway through his weight loss goal. “There’s a sculpture of a man I’ve seen digging himself out of clay…he’s digging himself,” he says, adding that beyond the personal gains, “[MAN v FAT] is a proper sports team. It’s like wearing any sports jacket. Like you’re wearing your local rugby team jersey.”
MAN v FAT expands into the BT Sports Academy in Tampa Bay
MAN v FAT will be hosted at BT Sports Academy (6351 49th Street North, Pinellas Park, FL) on Thursdays, 6 pm – 8 pm, starting July 25. The club costs $125 per month, with a $50 registration fee. However, if you sign up with promo code: ILOVETHEBURG, your registration fee will be reduced to $25.
Each league’s standing is not only decided by points scored on the field, but on pounds of weight lost. All players weigh in weekly before each game. Their individual weight loss progress counts toward bonus goals, increasing their team’s ranking, explains Richard Crick, the head of MAN v FAT.
Posturing the team’s scoring in this way keeps members accountable, knowing that their personal progress is team progress. What’s good for the hive is good for the bee, and vice-versa.
For those interested in joining a positive, supportive group of likeminded individuals seeking to change their lives sign up here.
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