Start weight: 137.2kg (21st 8lb)
Current weight: 84.7kg (13st 4lb)
Current loss: 52.5kg (8st 3lb)
Percentage weight loss: 38%
Start BMI: 42.5 Current BMI: 25.5
Matt Delaney (54) has been on an inspiring journey towards better health and fitness. After retiring in 2022, he decided it was time to make significant lifestyle changes. Through the Livewell programme, Matt has transformed his life, losing over eight stone, 10 inches from his waist, and gaining a new perspective on health and wellbeing. In this article, Matt, who has successfully reduced his BMI from an obese to healthier range, shares his story:
Background
I've been overweight for over 20 years, ever since I took a sedentary job without adjusting my exercise regime or nutritional intake. After retiring in 2022, I realised it was time to make a change. I wasn't keen on the popular diet clubs and didn't know where to start until my NHS Health Check offered me the chance to join the Livewell programme. It seemed perfect for me.
In my younger years, I was quite sporty, playing football, indoor cricket, and golf. However, as my children's sports activities took over our weekends, my own exercise routine fell by the wayside. The recent passing of my parents and my wife's mother made me realise the importance of taking care of my own health. My son urged me and my wife to make lifestyle changes, and the Livewell programme came at the ideal time.
Health concerns
My blood pressure was slightly high, and I wanted to avoid medication if possible. Although my heart was medically fine, I would get out of breath climbing stairs. Carrying extra weight caused sore knees and back, limiting my activities.
Getting started with Livewell
I wasn't sure what to expect from the programme, but I found a nice bunch of people with similar goals, led by knowledgeable advisors Andy and Joe. The initial exercise sessions were challenging but became easier as I found my feet and lungs! Having previous participants in the class helped set realistic goals for us newcomers.
Being data driven, I focused on measuring my progress. I tracked calories using a free app and visualised my weight loss. Setting a SMART target was crucial; I aimed to remove the word 'obese' from my BMI, which meant a 42.2kg (6st 9lbs) loss. Breaking it down into smaller weekly goals made it achievable and boosted my confidence.
With Andy's help, I started a gym programme, which was initially nerve-wracking but turned out to be a positive experience. I now visit the gym three or four times a week and attend Livewell classes regularly. I also started running for the first time in 40 years and completed the Derby Ram 5-mile run on 29th June. At the time of writing, I've achieved my target weight, and I'm motivated to reach my revised goal of eliminating the word 'overweight' from my BMI which is only a few pounds away.
I am training with the Derby RFC Bucks mixed ability rugby team, with plans to join them full-time next season. My goal is to play a competitive rugby match for the first time since I was 12.
Overcoming Obstacles
Injury: I strained my calf, which limited some exercises, but I focused on what I could do and worked on strengthening exercises with Andy's guidance.
Holidays: I adapt my exercise routine when travelling, incorporating more outdoor walks and using available facilities.
Diet: I've reduced alcohol consumption and cut out added sugars, opting for healthier alternatives. My bar of chocolate a day is now an occasional treat.
IBS: Through the programme, I learned to avoid certain foods that trigger symptoms, improving my overall health. For anyone who suffers with this condition, I follow a low FODMAP diet.
Drawbacks
Clothes: Dropping 10 inches off my waist has cost me a fortune in jeans. I've had to invest in a new wardrobe due to my weight loss, but I can now wear clothes I haven't fit into for years.
Lost wedding ring: Sadly, my wedding ring slipped off my slimmer finger whilst volunteering at a rugby match which is devasting for both me and my wife.
Benefits
Self-confidence: I didn’t realise how much I hid behind others in photos until I started looking back. I’m still not a ‘front and centre’ type but I’m happy to wear tighter clothes and be seen!
Health: My blood pressure is normal, my joints feel better, and I don't get out of breath easily. Interestingly I don’t catch colds as easily and if I do, they don’t hit me as hard.
Social: I've made new friends on the programme and drinking less alcohol makes for a more pleasant night out.
Fitness: I enjoy the buzz of exercising and have even started running again – the first time in 40 years.
Sleep: My wife appreciates that I've stopped snoring!
In summary I'm thoroughly enjoying my journey, balancing exercise and diet. It's rewarding to see the results of expending more energy than consuming.
Livewell advisor, Andy Varney said: "Matt's story illustrates how easily weight can be gained as we age, retire, or work in sedentary jobs. We often emphasise the importance of setting SMART goals and breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps. Matt effectively used his strengths to set goals and track his progress, staying on course even when faced with injuries. It has been a real pleasure to witness Matt's journey in weight loss and overall health improvement. He is quite literally half the man we first met during the initial week of his activation!"