A man has shared his remarkably straightforward secret to shedding an impressive 5.5 stone (35kg) in just twelve months, all while continuing to enjoy his beloved daily treats. His story, originally posted on Reddit, offers a refreshing and achievable alternative to restrictive fad diets as we navigate the new year.
The "Calorie Audit" Mindset
This time last year, the man weighed 19 stone (120kg) and decided to make a significant change. Like many, he embraced the 'New Year, New Me' sentiment in 2025. However, he was determined to avoid what he feared would be a life of "kale, sad salads, and misery." He knew that such a bleak prospect would likely lead him to quit.
Instead, he applied his professional skills as a senior manager to the problem. He chose to "audit" his calories rather than ban any foods outright. This simple shift in perspective was the cornerstone of his success. By treating calories like a budget, he could make informed choices without feeling deprived.
Walking for Hobnobs: The Simple Swap
His audit led to a powerful and practical discovery. He found that a single Chocolate Hobnob biscuit contains roughly 93 calories. He then calculated that a brisk 20-minute walk burns approximately 100 calories.
The result was a simple equation: he didn't give up his biscuits; he started "paying" for them with physical activity. This meant he could still enjoy his morning tea break without guilt, simply by incorporating a short walk around the block into his day. This approach broke the cycle of sedentary work life, where he noted the desk can be a "silent killer," leading to mental fatigue and cravings for sugar.
Sustainable Results and Community Reaction
Twelve months later, the man has dropped 5.5 stone and declares he is now in the "best shape of his life." He emphasised to others that drastic measures aren't necessary. His advice is clear: "You don’t have to live on lettuce. You just have to do the maths."
The Reddit community celebrated his sensible approach. One user praised the strategy of "regular, moderate exercise, plus a non-obsessive, reasonable diet - and time." Another highlighted how the basic principle of burning more calories than you consume often gets lost amidst profitable fad diets. While a third user pointed out the significant deficit required, they acknowledged the power of combining diet with manageable activity.
The key takeaway is a sustainable lifestyle change built on awareness and balance, not deprivation. It's a testament to how small, consistent actions—like a daily walk to offset a treat—can lead to profound transformation over time.
