Brad Rogers, a 54-year-old father from Minster, Kent, has lost nearly 15 stone through a football-based weight-loss programme, drastically improving his health and lifestyle. Once weighing 26 stone 7 pounds, Rogers attributed much of his weight gain to a long-standing fast food habit that cost him approximately £8,000 annually, primarily spent on takeaways such as McDonald’s.

Rogers, who is 5 feet 8 inches tall, has struggled with his weight since childhood. In his twenties, he played semi-professional football but saw his fitness decline as he aged and his unhealthy eating habits worsened. At his heaviest, he found everyday activities, including playing with his 13-year-old son Oliver, increasingly difficult.

In 2024, Rogers joined Man v Fat, a weight-loss programme that integrates regular football matches into participants’ routines. The programme emphasizes weekly 28-minute games where additional goals are given to teams based on cumulative weight loss. Rogers said the group’s shared experience and camaraderie helped motivate him throughout his journey.

Alongside participating in football matches, Rogers made significant changes to his diet by minimizing carbohydrate intake and cutting out most fast food. He also incorporated additional exercise such as gym workouts, running, swimming, and walking into his weekly routine. Over three years, these combined efforts led to a weight reduction down to 11 stone 7 pounds.

Rogers credited the programme with transforming his life, stating that his appearance had changed so significantly that people sometimes did not recognize him. He also noted financial benefits, having saved a substantial amount previously spent on takeaway food. Describing the programme’s supportive community, he suggested that similar initiatives should be recommended by medical professionals due to their effectiveness.

Man v Fat continues to gain attention for its innovative approach to weight loss by leveraging physical activity in a team setting, providing both motivation and accountability for participants.