Sheffield man sheds over 15 stone - and finds love

A Sheffield man has lost an incredible 15 stone to be named Slimming World’s Man of the Year 2019.
Ben Muscroft, Slimmer of the YearBen Muscroft, Slimmer of the Year
Ben Muscroft, Slimmer of the Year

Ben Muscroft weighed 27 stone when a trip to China with his brother showed just how serious a problem his weight had become.

The 42-year-old said: “I was always the ‘big kid’ at school and once I grew up, the weight meant that life was just hard. I couldn’t walk for more than five minutes, I always felt out of breath and I just had no get-up-and-go. I had knee problems which made me scared to walk long distances because I worried it would just completely give out under the strain of my weight. I couldn’t even roll over in bed.

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“When my brother Ben and I decided to go to China, even travelling there was a bit of a battle. I had to ask for a seatbelt extension, and then the tray table wouldn’t lie flat so I had to eat my meals at a strange angle. It wasn’t a pleasant way to spend 20 hours.

“Then when we got there, I was too unfit to walk the Great Wall of China, which I really regret. I knew something had to change.

“My dad and sister were Slimming World members, and I reluctantly went along. From that moment on my whole life changed for the better.”

Ben lost 10 llbs in the first week, while enjoying food he enjoyed, like creamy coriander and mint chicken.

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“I was surrounded by like-minded people who were all on the same journey,” he said.

“Not only that – I met someone special too – my girlfriend, Karen. At the size I was I’d grown used to the idea that I’d never find anyone who wanted to be with me. My Slimming World group didn’t just change my life, it gave me a life I never thought I’d be lucky enough to have.”

Ben also discovered a passion for exercise, taking up running, boxing and yoga. He ran his first half marathon in 1 hour 50 minutes.He and Karen now plan to travel the world together.

“Joining Slimming World is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. My only regret is not doing it 20 years sooner. If you’re struggling with your weight, just do it.”

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