Leeds man celebrates four stone weight loss after joining 'Man v Fat' football club

Paul English, 56, had been trying to lose weight for a long time, trying a number of different diets to no avail. When he found out about MAN v FAT, it piqued his curiosity. A life-long football fan, the opportunity to both meet his weight loss goals and get back into football was too good to pass up.

Once Paul signed up, he found himself enjoying not just the football and weight loss that he had expected, but also found himself joining a supportive and fun community that helped him to start making new friends.

“I have seen more improvements than weight loss and increased fitness. When I moved to Leeds for work and a new relationship, I didn't know too many people. Thanks to MAN v FAT, my social life is now full. I have made so many good friends with other lads from the club,” Paul said.

“The club, and my new friends from it keep me busy. I captain the five-a-side team, and also now manage our friends football league.”

MAN v FAT Football is a weight loss programme for men who attend weekly sessions, where they weigh in and play 28-minute games of small-sided football. Extra goals are awarded to teams with the greatest total weight-loss. Both a team’s total weight loss, and goals scored in matches contribute to a team’s standing in the club’s league table.

Losing over four stone, Paul isn’t the only one benefitting from the Leeds MAN v FAT Football club in Leeds, the club’s 90 players have managed to lose 55 stone in 2025. The club takes place every Wednesday from 7.00 pm at Goals Leeds.

Paul has even managed to fill his trophy cabinet nicely, taking home a full set of the club’s awards in his time with the programme, being recognised as an outstanding player.

“I would fully recommend MAN v FAT Football. The competitive edge to the weight loss scoring system gives you the impetus to keep losing weight each week. Building new friendships and giving both your fitness and mental health a boost are big bonuses too.” he added.

Aimed at men with a BMI of higher than 27.5, there are currently more than 8,500 players at 170 MAN v FAT Football and Rugby clubs across the UK. The programme was created to differ from traditional weight loss classes and combines sport with achievable weight loss goals for men.

In addition to football sessions, MAN v FAT players receive off-the-pitch support including healthy meal recipe ideas and tips on general fitness. Players also get free access to a bespoke mental health platform through MAN v FAT partners JAAQ.