Lost 20.5% of body weight and reduced BMI from 35 to 28
From Gamer to Gym Goer: Krystian’s Inspiring Transformation
Determined to lead a healthier life, 27-year-old Krystian Boguslawski has undergone a remarkable lifestyle transformation, shedding 22 kilos and going from gamer to gym goer!
So impressed by his motivation, advisor Mark Dolman, who leads Livewell’s Liveability weight management programme for individuals with learning and other disabilities, nominated Krystian for Livewell’s first award of 2025.
Krystian, who moved from Poland to Derby with his family when he was 11, lives with cerebral palsy, which has caused a weakness to the left side of his body. Concerned about the impact of prolonged gaming on his mental health and mobility, Krystian’s sister, Sara referred him to Liveability for specialist support to help him lose weight and become fitter and stronger. She shared:
“Krystian would sit in his bedroom for hours playing games which affected his moods, confidence and led to him gaining weight. I was worried for his future health so when I heard about Liveability, I helped him to sign up.”
Krystian explained that the hardest part was getting started.
“I was in denial about my health and a bit scared before I started but Mark soon put me at ease, supported me to get started in the gym and together we put a plan in place to build up my stamina and strength bit by bit. He suggested I cut out snacking and replace fizzy drinks with water which I’ve followed. I meet Mark every two weeks and seeing my weight go down each time gives me motivation.
In between our meetings, I challenge myself by increasing the time I spend on each piece of equipment. I use the cross trainer at home most days, do a combination of treadmill and strength exercises on four days in the gym and walk the dog with my mum every day too. Listening to music keeps me going.
Speaking about the benefits he is feeling Krystian added:
“I don’t get out of breath anymore and I find daily tasks easier to complete. I’m so much fitter and happier than I was before I started the programme. Getting this award makes me feel proud.”
Sara has also benefitted from Krystian’s passion for exercise.
“Krystian tried training me and my mum, but we couldn’t keep up,” she laughs. “It’s great to see Krystian consistently enjoying exercise and eating healthier. As a result, he’s more positive, and has lots more energy. As a family we are so proud of him, particularly his grandma who he speaks to after every meeting with Mark.”
Livewell advisor, Mark Dolman added:
Find out more about the Liveability programme on the service's web page.