At 47, Richard had reached a point where his weight was affecting his health and day-to-day life. Following a conversation with his GP, he registered with Livewell online and joined the Mackworth new starter group in January 2026.
Seven months on, he has lost 22kg (3st 6lb) – around 15% of his body weight – and completely changed his habits.
Richard explains:
“Living alone can make it easy to slip into bad habits – grabbing junk food instead of cooking. But I’ve realised it can also work in my favour. I can plan my meals, cook what I want and make healthier choices just for me.
I’d seen Livewell’s Client of the Month stories a couple of years ago, so when my doctor mentioned Livewell, I already had confidence in the service.”
He admits he was nervous about the group side of the programme:
“When Kirsty, my advisor, rang to explain the activation sessions, I wasn’t sure a group was for me, and I thought I might be the only man.
When I arrived, I was put at ease straightaway – Kirsty was welcoming, there were other people in a similar position and a few other men too. The atmosphere was positive. We shared ideas, got practical advice and I learned plenty of things I could go away and try.”
Those first sessions were a turning point:
“They made me think differently about my eating – not just what I eat, but when and why. I try to pause and ask, ‘Do I actually need this snack?’
Finding out how much sugar was in my favourite fizzy drinks really shocked me. I’ve cut right back on sugary snacks, switched to diet drinks and reduced how much I have overall.”
Activity has also become part of his routine:
“At the first exercise session, I could barely manage a lunge. I still don’t like them, but now I can do them – and I enjoy the rest of the circuit and the banter with the group.
I’ve kept up the weekly circuits class, and I like catching up with the two other men from my activation group. Getting weighed there and getting encouragement from Kirsty helps keep me accountable.”
Before joining Livewell, Richard’s exercise was limited to the occasional walk:
“I wasn’t doing regular activity, and it was tough to get going. Over time it’s become more manageable – and now it feels like part of my week.
After earning my 15 pledge points, I joined Moorways gym and decided to invest in a personal trainer. These days I aim for three gym sessions a week, plus the Mackworth circuits and sometimes a bike ride at the weekend.”
The benefits are clear:
“I feel much fitter and everyday movement is easier. On a recent holiday I walked up a mountain and actually enjoyed it. A year ago, I’d probably have avoided it.
I’m not an athlete, but I’m now training for a 10k Wolf Run in September with eight family members and friends, which is something I’d never have imagined doing.”
Richard is already thinking about how to maintain his progress:
“Beyond my time with Livewell, I’ll keep tracking my weight and sticking with the gym. I know I’m motivated by numbers and routine, so using that to my advantage is important.”
Richard’s story shows what can be achieved with the right support, commitment and a willingness to make gradual, sustainable changes.
