Name: Anthony Holmes

Age: 67

Programme: Shape Up

Why did you take part in Shape Up?

“After being diagnosed with a serious heart condition in March 2026, I was advised that I needed to reduce my BMI to a suitable level before I could be considered for surgery. I was referred to Shape Up and enrolled on the programme, starting in April 2026 for a 12-week course.

“On 7 June 2026, I attended my pre-operative assessment at Barts Hospital, which I passed with flying colours. My surgery is scheduled to take place in August 2026, and I truly believe that the support and guidance I received through Shape Up has helped me reach this stage.”

How did the coaching team and course content help you achieve your target?

“Shape Up is built around the idea that this is a lifestyle change, not a short-term diet. That is exactly what it delivers.

“With the support and guidance of the outstanding coaching team, I embraced the nutritional and dietary changes we explored each week through the course discussions. I also discovered that I genuinely enjoyed becoming more active, taking part in walking football, boxing, and circuit training.

“Every member of the coaching team demonstrates exceptional knowledge, dedication, and understanding of the different needs of the people they support. They do not simply tell you what changes to make; they explain why those changes matter. From the very beginning, they helped me understand the benefits that even small adjustments could make to my health and wellbeing.

“I can honestly say it works.

“The coaches are always available, whether during the Wednesday sessions, through email, or on WhatsApp throughout the week. No question is ever too much trouble, and I have always felt supported. I cannot remember a time when the coaches did not know how to help or provide an answer.

“A huge benefit for me, particularly given my heart condition, was the team’s excellent knowledge of cardiology and their ability to tailor advice and encouragement to my individual circumstances.”

What changes did you make for yourself?

“With the help of the coaches and the structure of the course, I began to pay much closer attention to the food I was eating and the choices I was making.

“Each week, we completed diaries recording our meals, snacks, fluid intake, and exercise levels. These were reviewed regularly, giving us helpful feedback and guidance on where small improvements could be made. There was never any feeling of deprivation. I was still eating three healthy meals a day, just with better choices and sensible adjustments to portion sizes. The weight started coming off naturally.

“I also joined a local gym and now go every day, something I never would have imagined before, as I had always been a bit of a slouch! I now look forward to my workouts. Thirty minutes of steady, low-impact exercise each day feels completely manageable, and I enjoy the way it makes me feel.”

What has been the impact on you and your life?

“I cannot fully explain the feeling of becoming a healthier, leaner version of myself. I love receiving compliments about how well I look and even being told I look younger!

“The amazing thing is that these changes no longer feel like effort. Healthy choices have become automatic. I never feel hungry, I feel fitter, and I now choose to walk wherever I can.

“As for the heart surgery, bring it on!

“I would also like to take this opportunity to say that I owe a massive debt of gratitude to Rhys and the whole Shape Up team, Lee, Elliott, Dan, and Tamsa. You have helped make it possible for me to extend my life and enjoy my future with Steph.

“Thank you all.”

The Shape Up programme forms part of our Active Arsenal Programmes which are made possible by the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association Players’ Fund.

Administered through the Premier League Foundation, the funding helps football clubs to tackle inequality and respond to local challenges, supporting people and their communities to be more inclusive.