Christmas may very well come early for one Keady man who set himself the mammoth target of shedding ten stone in time for the festivities.
In September of last year, Anthony ‘Bomber’ Mullen decided enough was enough. He had previously been heavily involved in football, something he admits took over his life for many years. But when he stepped away from his life of activity, he became sedentary… as many of us do.
Calling time on his new-found lazy-lifestyle, Anthony took to Granite Gym – owned by his trusted and long-time friend, Bernard Hughes – and set himself the goal of losing ten stone by the following Christmas.
At his starting point Anthony weighed 165.3 kg (25st 13lb) and now – on the approach to his deadline – he’s weighing in at 105 kg (16st 5lb)… a total loss so far of an incredible 9st and 4lb.
His story, says proud trainer Bernard, is one of “perseverance and determination” with nothing but consistent training and nutrition… no Ozempic, no injections, no crash dieting. Just “discipline, routine, and lifestyle change”.
Speaking to Armagh I, Anthony shared Bernard’s sentiment, adding: “It hasn’t been easy. I’ve tried mad diets before, but they’re not realistic — you always end up falling off after a few months. This time it has been different.”
Recognising the importance of good diet and regular exercise is key, of course. But Anthony hasn’t completely overhauled his life to make the weight loss a reality.
He had struggled before. Taking on those fad diets and extreme measures only to find himself returning to his old ways at the end of it all. This time he wanted it to become a permanent lifestyle change.
He explains: “I haven’t been overly strict — just consistent. I’ve been going to the gym three days a week and tracking my calories, which honestly works 100%.
Anthony, left with Brian, right at their first ATHX event
“The difference in quality of life, sleep, and energy is unreal.”
Seeing the physical change was one thing. Being physically more able was another.
Shortly after beginning his training at Granite, Anthony found himself roped into a gruelling ATHX challenge alongside friend and gym-buddy, Brian McNeice.
It was a whirlwind induction to the games. Feeling the buzz, just four days before they were due to kick-off in Dublin, Anthony text Bernard saying he wanted to do something for charity.
Laying the foundations for an eventual fundraiser, Bernard lined-up the challenge and the pair were sent on their way to the RDS.
The thought they were there for the experience and nothing else. In the end, however, they managed to qualify for the World Championships in Birmingham on December 6 of this year!
Mere weeks out from their next event, Anthony is understandably quite nervous, but also incredibly excited and proud. Looking back, he has come a long way both physically and mentally.
Back in September when he first teamed up with Granite, he joked with Bernard that one day he would “become the face of the gym” and while that remains a joke today, he feels compelled to share his story to inspire others who may be stuck in a rut.
Said Anthony: “The reason I’m sharing this is because if even one person reads it and feels inspired to start, it’ll be worth it. Everyone should look after themselves.
“I’ve genuinely enjoyed the process. My advice would be, stick with it. There will be days — or even weekends — when it’s tough, but enjoy it. You’ve got to live while you do it.
“And remember — the hardest part is stepping into the gym, but do it for yourself. If anyone’s looking for advice or just wants a chat about getting started, feel free to reach out.”
Of Granite Gym he added: “Training with the team at Granite has been incredible. The community spirit is brilliant — everyone pushes each other on, and the craic is always 90!
“Massive shoutout to Bernard, Colum, Sean and Ayla who go above and beyond for everyone.”
