Fynn Jennings
Darts is rooted within the culture of beer and pubs, therefore the stereotype that traditionally, darts players are often overweight is not without its merits. However, in recent years, there has been a rapid rise in professional players rapidly losing weight. Notably, Luke Humphries lost 56lbs in 2021, with more recent examples of Gerwyn Price, John Henderson and Peter Wright also losing weight rapidly. Whilst losing weight is generally a positive achievement, this article will analyse the methods some of these athletes used to identify whether their weight loss plans are good to use for you, or if they may be detrimental.
Gerwyn Price
Gerwyn Price is known for his aggressive gamesmanship and for previously playing rugby before becoming a darts pro. Recently, fans noticed a dramatic weight loss of three stone. Some critics have suggested this has made him play worse darts and that he has become “too thin”. Speaking out against this, Gerwyn has said, “As long as you’re comfortable and you feel good in yourself, which I do, then I’m okay.” Psychologically, Gerwyn shows how self-efficacy and positive body image is important for motivation in weight loss. Self-efficacy theory suggests that believing in yourself is the most important motivational tool you have in your toolbelt when it comes to your body image.
Luke Humphries
In 2021, during a darts match, Luke Humphries reportedly felt like he was going to have a heart attack. To combat this, he adopted a “clean eating” diet: eating nutrient dense foods such as fruit and veg, while avoiding foods with added sugars. He also committed himself to daily 30-minute bike sessions. These simple lifestyle changes led to Luke losing 4 stone. However, Luke believes the weight loss was not the best outcome of his lifestyle changes. He has said that making these realistic goals boosted his mental health, his physical health, and most importantly his job performance. He states that his weight loss journey has directly led to his rise to winning the World Championship in 2024, due to the exercise plans giving him discipline, whilst his diet plan boosted his energy levels, as well as stamina levels during tournaments. Using the Luke Humphries’ method, it is important to create a realistic exercise and diet goal you can commit to, and make sure you notice how diet and exercise make you feel better instead of focusing solely on losing weight.
Peter Wright
Peter Wright has also lost significant amounts of weight; however, he suggests this has affected him negatively. Peter has attempted to lose weight by eating just one meal a day. This has led to him losing three stone, but he has also said he has lost power in his throw, making his dart ability significantly deteriorate. Comparing his weight loss plan to Luke Humphries’, it is clear that nutrition is key. Peter losing his weight may seem like a step forward for himself, but because he has ignored vital nutrients, his strength and power is lost. This shows that simply losing weight may not be the only significant measure you use. Instead, like Humphries, find habits that make you feel better, physically and mentally.
Conclusion
Overall, these players show examples of what and what not to do. Creating simple lifestyle changes such as nutrient dense diets or doing movement that you enjoy will make you feel better physically and mentally than simply not eating enough. Also, make sure you know why you want to lose weight, and no matter what, always feel comfortable in your own body.