Join Mark and Darren as they chat with Cycling PT Andrew Harding from Cycle Strength about the transformative power of cycling in weight loss journeys. Andrew emphasizes the importance of setting achievable goals and the need for a structured training plan tailored to individual needs, especially for those over 40. He shares his insights on the benefits of cycling, not just for fitness but also for mental health, highlighting how regular rides can lead to a sense of accomplishment and motivation. The discussion delves into practical tips for beginners, including how to choose the right bike and the significance of proper nutrition before and after rides. With Andrew's expertise, listeners will gain valuable knowledge on how to integrate cycling into their lives effectively, making it a fun and sustainable part of their fitness routine.

Takeaways:

• Setting achievable cycling goals is crucial for motivation and maintaining progress in weight loss journeys.
• Cycling provides great flexibility for training as it can be done solo or in groups.
• Incorporating off-the-bike strength training is essential for older cyclists to prevent injuries.
• Joining a cycling group can enhance the experience and provide accountability for training.
• Gradually increasing riding distances helps build endurance without overwhelming beginners.
• Nutrition plays an important role, emphasizing the need for carbs before rides and protein after.

Links referenced in this episode:

• cyclestrengthpt.com
• strava.com

If you've enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for next week, and of course ,if you would like us to cover a weight loss topic get in touch through our website bigfellaspodcast.com

Join Mark and Darren as they welcome Matt, a personal trainer and sports therapist, to discuss effective strategies for men's weight loss and fitness. One of the key takeaways is that finding an enjoyable activity is crucial for maintaining motivation and achieving long-term success in weight loss. Matt shares his experiences working with clients of varying fitness levels, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches that combine weight training, cardio, and proper nutrition. The conversation also highlights the role of community and support in keeping individuals engaged in their fitness journeys. Tune in for practical tips, inspiring stories, and insights into how to make fitness a rewarding part of your lifestyle.

Takeaways:

• It's crucial to engage in fitness activities that you genuinely enjoy to maintain consistency.
• Weight training is beneficial for weight loss, but it should be balanced with cardio and nutrition.
• Building a supportive community can greatly enhance motivation and accountability in fitness journeys.
• Incorporating both fitness coaching and sports therapy can lead to better overall results for clients.
• Stretching and cool down routines are essential to prevent injuries and maintain mobility.
• Nutrition should be approached gradually; introducing healthier choices steadily leads to sustainable changes.

As Matt has said in the Podcast it is important to enjoy what you do as part of your fitness journey, for Darren and Mark that's football (even if they are shit at it). That is why we have teamed up with Man Vs Fat as its football-related weight loss. Using the Promo Code BIGFELLAS you will pay just £1 when you join!

To find out more visit their website here: https://www.manvfatfootball.org/

Join Mark Hall and Darren Ockingdon as they welcome Chris Checketts to the Big Fellas Podcast to share his inspiring weight loss journey. Chris has made significant strides, dropping from 108 kilograms to around 80 kilograms, and he attributes his success to a combination of lifestyle changes, including cutting out sugary foods and incorporating exercise into his routine. He candidly discusses the various methods he tried in the past, including gastric surgery, and how finding a motivating factor—his friend's upcoming wedding—helped propel him towards a healthier lifestyle. Throughout the conversation, Chris emphasizes the importance of making gradual changes rather than overwhelming oneself with strict diets. Tune in to hear how he has transformed his relationship with food and exercise, and how he continues to set new goals to maintain his progress.

Takeaways:

• Chris Checketts shares his inspiring weight loss journey, highlighting the importance of motivation.
• Making small, sustainable changes to diet and lifestyle can lead to significant weight loss.
• Setting achievable goals and participating in events can help maintain motivation for weight loss.
• Chris emphasizes the value of accountability and support from friends and family during his journey.
• A healthier relationship with food involves enjoying meals without complete deprivation of treats.
• Exercise played a vital role in Chris's transformation, starting with manageable challenges.

If you have enjoyed this podcast be sure to subscribe on your podcast platform.

In the podcast, you may have heard we have teamed up with Man Vs Fat, both myself and I play in the Man vs Fat league in Peterborough and we are big fans so if you want to join you can get registration for just £1, check them out here: https://www.manvfatfootball.org/

If you would like to sponsor Chris on his half marathon, you can find out more about this great cause here: Chris Checketts is fundraising for Legend on the Bench Charity

Navigating holidays and special occasions can be a challenge for anyone on a weight loss journey, and this episode of the Big Fellas Weight Loss Podcast dives deep into that very topic. Mark and Darren explore the dilemma of whether to let loose and indulge during these events or to maintain a healthier lifestyle while away. They emphasize the importance of setting realistic goals and understanding that it's okay to enjoy yourself but also to be mindful of choices that can minimize weight gain. The discussion highlights practical tips, such as staying active and making healthier food choices, even in social situations. Ultimately, they remind listeners that one holiday or special event won't define their overall progress, and preparing for these moments can help keep the weight loss journey on track.

Takeaways:

• Holidays are a time to relax, but staying mindful about eating can help.
• You can enjoy your holiday while still making healthier food choices along the way.
• Consider setting realistic goals for your diet during holidays and special occasions.
• Enjoying a holiday meal doesn't mean you have to overindulge; moderation is key.
• Incorporate physical activities into your holiday plans to balance out extra calories consumed.
• Remember, one holiday won't define your entire weight loss journey; it's about consistency.

If you want to find out more about Man vs Fat you can visit their website here: https://www.manvfatfootball.org/

Do not forget to use our Promo Code "BIGFELLAS" to register for just £1!

If you have enjoyed this podcast be sure to subscribe on your podcast platform, and why not reach out to us and tell us what you think we should cover in future episodes.

We have in the coming weeks...

A Premier League Winner

Richard Crick the head of Man Vs Fat

A Weight Loss specialist GP

and much more.

Mark and Darren welcome Paul Sheppard, a mindset and anxiety coach, to discuss the intricate relationship between mental health and weight loss. The conversation emphasizes that anxiety is a common experience for many, often linked to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Paul shares insights on how to reframe setbacks in weight loss journeys as opportunities for growth rather than failures, advocating for a holistic approach to well-being that includes recognizing the importance of sleep, nutrition, and mental clarity. The discussion also touches on the significance of visualization and meditation in fostering a healthier mindset. Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to connect with their future selves and embrace positive action in their lives, rather than succumbing to the pressures of societal expectations and self-criticism.

Takeaways:

• Developing a positive mindset can significantly impact your weight loss journey and overall well-being.
• Anxiety is a common experience for many, and it's important to normalize discussing it.
• Setbacks in weight loss should be viewed as opportunities for growth and reflection.
• Meditation can help calm the mind and improve focus, aiding in weight management.
• Visualizing your future self can motivate you to make healthier choices today.
• Small, consistent changes in your daily habits can lead to significant long-term benefits.

If you would like to listen to Paul's podcast you can find it on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ZEfTTAel1sQqOHKzStAOW?si=1bc6411958384556

Darren and Mark tackle the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle while living life on the road, particularly focusing on men's weight loss. They discuss how busy work schedules can lead to unhealthy eating habits, especially when faced with limited food options at petrol stations and services. The conversation highlights the importance of meal preparation and making mindful food choices, even when time is tight. Mark shares his experience with meal replacement products, which help him stay on track during long days of travel, while Darren reflects on a recent trip where he struggled with preparation. Together, they emphasize the need for better planning and awareness to navigate the temptations of fast food and stay committed to weight loss goals.

Takeaways (not that kind of Takeaways!):

• Life on the road presents unique challenges for men trying to lose weight.
• Preparation is key; packing healthy meals can help avoid poor food choices.
• Meal replacement options can simplify eating healthily while travelling for work.
• Fast food options are often unhealthy, but there are always better choices available.
• Finding ways to be more active, like taking breaks during long drives, is essential.
• Even small changes, like using a cooler, can make a big difference in food quality.

https://bigfellaspodcast.com/

Ozempic dubbed the miracle weight loss injection, takes centre stage in this episode of the Big Fellas podcast, where hosts Darren and Mark share their honest insights and experiences surrounding this revolutionary treatment. Both have navigated their own weight loss journeys, and they discuss how Ozempic was initially developed to aid those with type two diabetes but has gained notoriety for its appetite-suppressing effects that help users shed pounds. They emphasize the importance of consulting medical professionals before considering such treatments, as they are not experts themselves. The conversation dives into the potential side effects, the necessity of lifestyle changes, and the significance of maintaining a balanced diet, even while using Ozempic. With a mix of personal anecdotes and research, Darren and Mark provide a relatable and informative take on a trending topic in the weight loss industry.

SHOW NOTES:

Darren and Mark dive deep into the phenomenon of Ozempic, a medication that has taken the weight loss world by storm. Often referred to as the 'miracle weight loss injection,' Ozempic is gaining traction not only among those with Type 2 diabetes but also among individuals looking to shed pounds. Throughout the episode, they emphasize that while this medication may offer significant weight loss benefits, it is crucial to approach it with a discerning mindset. Both hosts share their personal weight loss journeys, underscoring their status as everyday people rather than medical professionals. They advocate for consulting healthcare providers before embarking on any new treatment, especially one as impactful as Ozempic. As they unravel the science behind Ozempic, they explain how it works by altering hormone signals in the body to decrease appetite, ultimately leading to reduced caloric intake and weight loss.

The discussion shifts to the broader implications of using such medication in a society grappling with rising obesity rates. Darren and Mark express concerns about the over-reliance on pharmaceutical solutions rather than addressing root causes of unhealthy eating habits. They stress the importance of lifestyle changes, highlighting that any weight loss achieved through medications like Ozempic should be complemented with sustainable dietary and exercise routines to maintain long-term results. The hosts also share statistics on obesity in the UK, painting a concerning picture that indicates the urgent need for effective solutions, yet they caution listeners about the potential side effects and the need for medical supervision.

Listeners will appreciate the candid conversations surrounding the social dynamics of weight loss, the psychological aspects of eating, and the underlying habits that contribute to obesity. Darren and Mark reflect on their experiences in sports and how their involvement has positively influenced their weight loss journeys. They also address the stigma surrounding weight loss medications and the need for open dialogue about health and fitness, urging listeners to share their thoughts and experiences as they navigate their weight loss journeys alongside the hosts. Ultimately, this episode serves as an informative and relatable exploration of Ozempic, presenting both the hopeful possibilities and necessary precautions that come with it.

Takeaways:

• Ozempic, also known as the skinny jab, is gaining popularity in the weight loss industry as a potential game changer for many men.
• While Ozempic helps reduce appetite and promote weight loss, it is essential to consult a medical professional before starting any treatment.
• Darren and Mark emphasize that lasting weight loss requires a lifestyle change, not just relying on injections like Ozempic.
• Many people have experienced positive results with Ozempic, but side effects such as nausea and diarrhea can occur.
• It's...

In this episode of the Big Fellas Weight Loss for Men Podcast on World Mental Health Week, we’re joined by Kat Thorne, founder of The Morning Game Changer. After nearly losing her life in 2016, Kat has dedicated herself to helping others form positive habits to reduce stress and anxiety in the modern world.

We explore how to create sustainable, healthy habits beyond weight loss—like managing mobile phone use, reducing mental clutter, and building a lifestyle that supports mental and physical health. This episode is packed with tips to help you not only lose weight but also lead a happier, less stressful life.

For more on Kat Thorne, check out her website: Kat Thorne - The Morning Game Changer.

Check out Kat's very own podcast The Positive Habits Podcast