MAN v FAT arrived in New York Metropolis in April, with the launch of its first three soccer leagues, as they joined our authentic group of males in Florida in receiving MAN v FAT’s assist.
Main the best way in Lengthy Island Metropolis is Karl Cereno, who was just lately 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 individuals enhance their well being and high quality of life via train. Over time, I’ve labored with a variety of shoppers in every kind of settings – from main group bootcamps and on-line teaching applications to working one-on-one with everybody from aspiring athletes to weekend warriors to older adults seeking to really feel like their youthful selves once more.
Aside from that, I’m a proud cat dad, a lover of horrible jokes, and a self-proclaimed flan connoisseur. I’m all the time up for assembly new individuals, 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 assist the lads 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 every thing 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 superb teammates who supported me, pushed me, and held me accountable.
As we become older, discovering that sort of assist will get tougher — 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, maintain 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 most important areas of focus in terms of teaching:
1. All of it begins with mindset.
I’m a agency believer that perspective is every thing. Actual, lasting change doesn’t occur except somebody really needs it — and that begins within the thoughts. My objective is to assist shoppers reshape their relationship with their physique and with meals. It’s not about wanting like a bodybuilder or an expert athlete. It’s about feeling comfy in your personal pores and skin and celebrating what your physique can do. Meals isn’t one thing to concern or keep away from — it’s gasoline that helps us accomplish what we’re able to.
2. Meet individuals the place they’re.
Everybody learns in a different way, and a part of my job is determining what actually clicks with every shopper. Some individuals 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 assist primarily based on what resonates greatest for every individual.
3. Make it enjoyable.
If it’s not enjoyable, it’s not sustainable. Progress might be robust, but when we’re laughing, having fun with the journey, and celebrating wins (massive and small), it makes the onerous work really feel quite a bit lighter – even when they don’t notice that’s by design.

What sort of group are you hoping to construct at MAN v FAT Lengthy Island Metropolis?
With out getting misplaced within the weeds, I actually consider there aren’t sufficient areas the place males can discover actual assist. Or in the event that they do exist, they’re usually onerous to search out — particularly as we become older. It turns into harder to make new associates, discover new social circles, and even simply attain out for assist after we want it.
A number of us grew up with the concept that males should be robust, to deal with every thing alone. I need to break free from all of that. I need to construct an actual group — brothers supporting brothers. A spot the place you may present up precisely as you’re, really feel comfy reaching out, and know you’re not alone. An area to make associates, share some laughs, and raise one another up.
On the finish of the day, I’m not simply right here to teach. I’m right here to assist construct a brotherhood.
Past the apparent causes — enjoying sports activities, making new associates, 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 follow collectively, put on a group uniform, and be a part of one thing larger than your self. It’s greater than only a recreation — it’s an actual group.
Wish to be part of Karl and the blokes at Lengthy Island Metropolis? You may register right now at our MAN v FAT Soccer web site!