
MAN v FAT arrived in New York Metropolis in April, with the launch of its first three soccer leagues, as they joined our unique group of males in Florida in receiving MAN v FAT’s help.
Main the best way in Lengthy Island Metropolis is Karl Cereno, who was not too long ago appointed as Well being & Wellbeing Coach on the league to assist the blokes there. We caught up with him to search out out extra.
Inform us a bit about you
Born and raised within the Philippines and now dwelling in Astoria, NY, I’ve spent the previous 10 years working as each a healthcare and health skilled. I’m captivated with serving to folks enhance their well being and high quality of life by means of train. Through the years, I’ve labored with a variety of purchasers in every kind of settings – from main group bootcamps and on-line teaching packages to working one-on-one with everybody from aspiring athletes to weekend warriors to older adults trying to really feel like their youthful selves once more.
Apart from that, I’m a proud cat dad, a lover of horrible jokes, and a self-proclaimed flan connoisseur. I’m at all times up for assembly new folks, making an attempt new issues, and sharing just a few laughs alongside the best way.
What was it that made you need to become involved in MAN v FAT Soccer and help the boys in Lengthy Island Metropolis?
Rising up, I struggled with being chubby, so I do know firsthand the challenges that include it – from confidence points to physique picture struggles and all the things in between. That is one thing that hits dwelling for me. What helped me flip issues round was group sports activities. I used to be fortunate to have wonderful teammates who supported me, pushed me, and held me accountable.
As we grow old, discovering that type of help will get more durable — and that’s precisely what I need to assist construct right here at MAN v FAT Soccer. A group the place we raise one another up, hold one another going, and make the journey enjoyable alongside the best way.

The way you you describe your teaching and wellbeing type?
I’ve three fundamental areas of focus in relation to teaching:
1. All of it begins with mindset.
I’m a agency believer that angle is all the things. Actual, lasting change doesn’t occur until somebody really desires it — and that begins within the thoughts. My objective is to assist purchasers reshape their relationship with their physique and with meals. It’s not about wanting like a bodybuilder or knowledgeable athlete. It’s about feeling snug in your personal pores and skin and celebrating what your physique can do. Meals isn’t one thing to worry or keep away from — it’s gasoline that helps us accomplish what we’re able to.
2. Meet folks the place they’re.
Everybody learns in another way, and a part of my job is determining what actually clicks with every shopper. Some folks want a drill sergeant. Others want a teammate. Some want demonstrations. Others want to only dive in and study by doing. My objective is to ship the right combination of steering, motivation, and help primarily based on what resonates finest for every individual.
3. Make it enjoyable.
If it’s not enjoyable, it’s not sustainable. Progress could be powerful, but when we’re laughing, having fun with the journey, and celebrating wins (massive and small), it makes the laborious work really feel quite a bit lighter – even when they don’t understand that’s by design.

What sort of neighborhood are you hoping to construct at MAN v FAT Lengthy Island Metropolis?
With out getting misplaced within the weeds, I actually imagine there aren’t sufficient areas the place males can discover actual help. Or in the event that they do exist, they’re usually laborious to search out — particularly as we grow old. It turns into more durable to make new mates, discover new social circles, and even simply attain out for assist once we want it.
Lots of us grew up with the concept males should be powerful, to deal with all the things alone. I need to break free from all of that. I need to construct an actual neighborhood — brothers supporting brothers. A spot the place you’ll be able to present up precisely as you’re, really feel snug reaching out, and know you’re not alone. An area to make mates, share some laughs, and raise one another up.
On the finish of the day, I’m not simply right here to educate. I’m right here to assist construct a brotherhood.
Past the apparent causes — taking part in sports activities, making new mates, and enhancing your well being — it additionally provides individuals who’ve by no means been a part of a group the prospect to expertise it for the primary time. You get to apply collectively, put on a group uniform, and be a part of one thing greater than your self. It’s greater than only a recreation — it’s an actual neighborhood.
Wish to be a part of Karl and the blokes at Lengthy Island Metropolis? You may register right now at our MAN v FAT Soccer web site!