A local club created for overweight men in Bedford is on the hunt for new members, as it looks to spread its wings and help more of the town’s rugby-mad players get into sport, all while losing weight and getting healthier.
Man vs Fat has been active in the UK for over a decade, but Bedford’s rugby version only started last summer, and is quickly growing to become a go-to club every Wednesday for the town’s casual rugby players.
The programme was inspired by the hugely successful football-based Man vs Fat Football that has helped tens of thousands of men lose more than one million pounds of unwanted weight in the last decade, along with its rugby programme.
The club is the latest in a growing nationwide programme designed for overweight men with a BMI of over 27.5.
Since its inception in June 2025, the initiative has helped 22 local men lose over 50 stone. The club is now looking to share its success with other men from the region, encouraging new players to join.
The sessions take place at Bedford Athletic Rugby Club every Wednesday evening from 7.30pm.
How does it work?
A typical Man vs Fat rugby session includes an initial weigh-in on arrival, tracking their weight loss or gain across every week.
After weigh-ins, players take to the pitch in small-sided games of touch rugby.
The scores on the pitch combine with an individual’s weight change throughout a week to contribute to league standings within the club.
Teams that win matches and whose players lose weight are awarded more points, with overall winners crowned at the end of a 14-week season.
And one of many who have played across the season is Werner Frost, who has lost a total of three stone across the 14-week period.
“As a guy in my forties, I found myself wishing that I could still play a bit of rugby, even if just socially”, said Werner.
“Seeing something like Man vs Fat available locally, immediately drew my attention. I also had to lose weight and I liked the fact that there is a community and a coach that holds you responsible for your weight loss.
“Then there’s the social side of the programme, too.
“Of course there is a pitch, scales and combined league table, so it can get competitive, but everyone at the club gets along and we have some fun. Men are kids at heart and this is an opportunity for us to play around!”
“I’ve made friends through MAN v FAT, but the accountability of a coach that weighs you in every week has forced me to be more disciplined with my eating at exercise habits.
“My fitness has drastically improved and I have seen the proof of that on the scales”, he added.
Not just about weight loss
However, the initiative isn’t just about kicking fat into touch.
Man vs Fat players across the UK have spoken about making new friends, building confidence and improving their mental health with the help of the programme.
In addition to weekly sessions, Man vs 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 programme partners, JAAQ.
Readers can find out more about MAN v FAT Rugby Bedford at: https://manvfatrugby.com/club/bedford/
