As a person that has always struggled with weight, I recall reading about the Brown Buttabean Movement a couple of years back and thinking wow, this guy is an inspiration.

As much as I think Dave Letele, the Brown Buttabean, would think negatively of me – because there was always an excuse to not sign-up to his online programme – (you know the drill - too busy, too tired, sore knee) - after reading his book “No Excuses” I know there would be no judgement at all – because he’s been there himself.

The book talks about Dave’s life – all of the ups and downs, including putting on a lot of weight while living the good life in Australia as a successful businessman.

After losing it all, including his family, Dave moved back to New Zealand with the assistance of a lifelong friend (who features in the book extensively).

Dave could so easily have become resigned to a life of non-motivation, continuing weight gain (at one stage he was over 200kg), feeling depressed and sorry for himself – but he didn’t.

He started boxing for Duco Events and gained a following (both those who liked him, and those who didn’t), and also gained a following on social media by documenting his exercise and weight-loss journey, and in the process inspiring a lot of people.

It was from this the Brown Buttabean Movement was founded, and Dave, along with his ever-growing team, has helped thousands of people.

“No Excuses” features some of the stories from people he has encouraged, along with his friends who have not only helped him but have also been inspired by him.

The book also deals with the struggles Dave has faced when dealing with our health system in trying to gain some sort of financial help for his programme.

Dave is a can-do person and believes in just getting things done, rather than talking about them.

He truly is an inspiration, and “No Excuses” would be a great read for not just those wanting to shed some weight and improve their fitness.

The book ends with Dave’s life lessons –things which we can all live by.