Whilst Football has been our longest standing sport, it is not the only programme on offer to guys in the UK, with the launch of MAN v FAT Rugby at the end of 2024.
Hundreds of guys have improved their health and wellbeing with the Rugby programme, bringing together a community already known for its social side to tackle weight loss and wider health.
We caught up with Nick Jackson, who has coached MAN v FAT Rugby in Cheltenham since things got started, to find out more.
How proud are you of both Cheltenham and the wider Rugby programme’s contribution to the 1,000,000lbs lost achievement?
As the coach in Cheltenham since day 1 I could not be prouder of how this club has stood on its own two feet. The club is a powerful cog in the national set up of Rugby clubs and to be able to contribute over 1,000lbs to the overall weight lossis something I and the club are very proud of.
How important was it to add Rugby to the mix of MAN v FAT’s offering and how does Rugby bring something different to the mix?
Rugby is a game for all shapes and sizes so it was a natural progression in my eyes for the football programme to diversify into rugby. The difference is the all in it together attitude that rugby creates and the fact that no matter who turns up there will always be a game of rugby and a chance to hang out with your mates. The adaptation to T1 has really made sessions inclusive as well.
What have been the best bits of supporting the Cheltenham lads to hit their goals?
Seeing the guys realise they can achieve great things and thus heading back towards their true selves is really cool!
Why does MAN v FAT work as a programme to support men?
Men do not have enough of these types of communities. The fact men are held accountable, play sport together and be men is absolutely central to the success of the mental health agenda. This is why MAN V FAT works.
What are your future hopes for MAN v FAT Rugby across the UK?
For it to be recognised as a key driver in helping men back in to the game and in a wider context a genuine health plan that can restore mens physical and mental wellbeing.
