It’s always important to think about off-the-scales wins when you’re looking to improve your health, as you may not always see a huge difference when you’re laser-focused on the numbers.
If you take the time to look at all aspects of your health, fitness and wellbeing, you’ll notice changes that are just as significant, if less visible – improved confidence, moving down a notch on your belt, improvement in your complexion, to name but a few.
As this week’s Amazing Loser Tony can attest, one of the biggest improvements to your health can be waving goodbye to medications you’ve gotten used to taking for obesity-related conditions…
Name: Tony Cohan
Age: 51
Height: 5’10”
Location: Dundee
Occupation: Quality Engineer
Highest weight: 133 kg
(21st, 294lbs)
Current weight: 93.9 kg
(14st 11lbs, 207lbs)
Weight lost: 39.1kg (6st 2lbs, 87lbs)
What negative experiences did you have of being overweight?
I was overweight, had high blood pressure and needed a total knee replacement, but due to being so overweight the surgeon wouldn’t operate. I had low self esteem, no energy and no motivation.
What made you decide to change?
I saw MAN v FAT on tv.
What did you do to lose weight?
I watched MAN v FAT Cardiff Coach’s Nas’ videos on MAN v FAT and learned how to count calories (and how many I needed) and went for it. I was pretty motivated and just went for it and I kept losing weight.
Had you tried to lose weight before?
Yes, with Scottish Slimmers, with not much luck.
What did you eat before you lost weight?
Full English, burgers, fish and chips, lager, sweets and cakes.
What do you eat now?
Banana, salmon, beans on toast, salads – homemade meals.
Why did you join MAN v FAT Challenge?
I gradually gained weight again and during lockdown it went a bit out of control, so I needed guidance and a challenge. I had done the old 30 day MVFIA groups on the forum and that always worked.
How has MAN v FAT Challenge helped you lose weight?
It’s changed my life, given me facts and guidance and help at hand when required.
Why do you think MAN v FAT Challenge works?
It keeps you motivated and accountable.
What would you say to anyone thinking of joining MAN v FAT Football?
Join, you’ve nothing to lose* .
(*Except weight! *cough* – Ed)
What has been the most difficult thing about losing weight?
Keeping it off – when you think you’ve done it, it slowly creeps back on.
How have you overcome these difficulties?
MAN v FAT Challenge.
How has life changed now that you’ve lost weight?
I no longer take tablets for high blood pressure – working with the doctor, I went on half dose and now don’t take any medication.
Time for a shout-out! Who has helped you on your weight loss journey?
Nas – I’ve pestered him to bits from day one – and the teams I’ve been in on the forum and on Challenge.
If you could go back to the person you were at your heaviest, what would you say to him?
Why.
What are your next steps now that you’ve lost weight?
I plan to get in muscular shape and keep working on my fitness.
You’re Prime Minister for the day – what would you do to help combat the obesity crisis?
Education.
What do other fat men need to know about losing weight?
The benefits to your life, your confidence and your health.
