Lee Earnshaw, a 35-year-old from Bury, Greater Manchester, faced a daunting reality when he tipped the scales at 21 stone following years of unhealthy eating and inactivity. His weight escalated after becoming a new dad, where takeaways became a regular habit, leading to lethargy and frequent daytime naps.
The turning point came when Lee had a lightbulb moment upon weighing himself. Filled with shame, he realized it was time for a significant lifestyle change. In just five months, he managed to lose over six stone, transforming his life dramatically.
Lee’s struggles with establishing a fitness routine were amplified by feelings of isolation. However, everything changed when he joined Man v Fat Football in April. This unique league supports men with a BMI over 27.5, combining a love for soccer with health goals. The teams earn extra goals through weight loss, creating a supportive environment.
Lee noted, “It’s all about having that right mindset and having people supporting you.” The camaraderie within his football team played a crucial role, promoting the understanding that every little achievement counts. Lee also praised the support from his wife and family as vital to his journey.
In addition to playing football twice a week, Lee adopted intermittent fasting, eating only between midday and 6 PM. This dietary change, alongside regular exercise, led to significant progress. As he grew lighter, he reintroduced breakfast, while still avoiding snacks. One of the most rewarding outcomes of his weight loss has been the increased energy to play with his son.
“I feel great now; I have a lot more energy to play with my son, which is what I feel has been the most important result of my weight loss,” he shared. Lee further explained how his relationship with food has evolved, moving away from emotional eating to mindful meal planning. He now takes pride in his food choices and maintains a healthy lifestyle, ensuring he doesn’t revert to his former habits.
Since launching the Man v Fat Football Bury club in April, a thriving community of 75 men has emerged, meeting weekly for matches and support. This initiative, in collaboration with Bury Council, has been life-changing for many, proving that with the right motivation and community support, incredible transformations are possible.
Source: Leicester Mercury
