Brisbane actor Matthew McDowell, 27, is practicing what he preaches, dressing up as the 30 man character to encourage people to find their 30 minutes of physical activity every day.

He has lost an incredible 50 kilograms through eating well and being more active and is passionate about helping others to make small changes in their lifestyle to benefit their health.
“I used to be 120kgs and realised that if I was to be able to be a professional actor and play a range of roles I needed to lose the weight,” Matt said.

“I was facing an even more difficult task if I didn’t make an effort to lose the weight in my twenties as then it would become really difficult, and I really needed to improve my health.”

It took Matt two years to lose the weight, through regular exercise and eating healthier foods.
“I started off swimming every day, for two hours, because that’s about the only activity I could manage,” he said.

“I also changed my diet – I gave up beer, fast food and started to eat healthier options such as sushi, stir-frys with lots of vegetables and began drinking green tea.”

“It was a long haul and there were times when I wanted to give up, but it was important to me to lose the weight and I am really proud that I persevered. I not only feel healthier but it’s really helped me a lot with the ladies as well,” Matt said.

Matt said he now has more energy than he’s ever had, which has helped him with his various acting roles and he makes sure that he gets his 30 minutes of physical activity  every day.

 ‘I was thrilled to be asked to be the 30 character , as I realise the importance of what the Find Your 30 campaign aims to achieve, which is to lower obesity levels which are contributing to a wide range of serious diseases,” Matt said. “And it’s a lesson for life.”

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