Just call me Not So Big Narstie!
BIG Narstie is not so large any more – after dropping three clothes sizes following a weight loss bid.
The rapper and TV chat show host tells the Daily Star: “Since losing weight and getting healthy, I’ve got stretch marks where my body’s shrinking.”
The famously chunky grime artist – real name Tyrone Mark Lindo – has been on a mission to shape up after collapsing while filming Celebrity Bake Off in 2019.
He says: “I had a health scare a few years ago and I realised I needed to change – long term. I had to lose weight, eat right and be more active.
“Sometimes you just need a bit of a nudge in the right direction.”
Since then, the 37-year-old, right, who hosts Channel 4’s The Big Narstie Show, has been hitting the gym and has taken up martial arts.
He adds: “I am a gym ninja and I love martial arts. I burn up a sweat good and proper at least three or four times a week.
“It’s a big part of my life now. I can even cartwheel in the park with my kids. None of this I could have done before my weight loss journey.”
Big Narstie has also given up booze and started eating more healthily, saying: “I’m ripped courtesy of good diet, exercise and giving my body the total respect it deserves.”
But the star refuses to deny himself his favourite dishes. He says: “I am a champion lover of good food.
“You don’t get to be my size and not become an expert in food. Food brings me pleasure. I never want to restrict the things I enjoy.
“A diet is too hard to keep to, you can do it for six months or a year maybe. But if you decide to make a lifestyle change – where you still have a bit of everything – then that can work.
“I don’t think you should cut one thing out. My whole thing is everything in moderation.
“Have a bit of everything – exercise as well as a good, balanced diet.”
Now a self-confessed lettuce lover, he says: “I’m not about short-term goals – this is a long-term lifestyle change.”
And as he continues his wellness journey, Big Narstie has become the new face of SlimFast, alongside model Kelly Brook, top left, as he uses the protein-rich shakes to fuel up his day.
He didn’t use SlimFast to lose weight but rather to “power me up on my long-term fitness journey”.
And he has even launched a new track called Oomph For Your Boomph, to celebrate his new healthy attitude.
He explains: “My song is all about supporting and encouraging people to live their best life through positive motivation and fun.”
And the dad-of two reckons there are big benefits to his current fitness regime and frame.
“Since my lifestyle change, I’ve noticed a massive difference,” he says.
“I have more energy – especially with my children. I’ve had to get healthier and fitter for them.
“Now I can fully play with them and not half play. Health is wealth. I’m in the best shape of my life.”
Big Narstie has some advice for the rest of us too: “The key is to find something you like doing and do it for the right reasons – do it for yourself.
“Don’t see it as a short-term quick fix. It won’t work. Make it part of your everyday life. And be happy.”