As of April 2026, Mark Labbett, better known as “The Beast” from ITV’s The Chase, has achieved a total weight loss of approximately 11 stone (70kg), bringing his current weight to roughly 18 stone. His transformation began in earnest following a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis in 2017, but accelerated significantly during the 2020 lockdown. Labbett attributes his success to a “complete nutrition overhaul” that focused on a high-protein, low-carb diet, the elimination of late-night snacking, and increased physical activity driven by his “hyperactive” young son and his dog, Baloo. Standing at 6ft 6in, the quizmaster recently stated he is in the “best shape of his life,” having dropped from a 5XL to an XL clothing size without the use of gastric band surgery or weight-loss drugs.
The Starting Point: 29 Stone and Diabetes
Mark Labbett’s weight reached its peak in 2003 when he was working as a full-time mathematics teacher, tipping the scales at 29 stone (184kg). At this size, he faced significant health risks, including high blood pressure and severe joint strain.
The true turning point came in 2017 with a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. A nurse noticed that skin on his legs was not healing properly, prompting the tests that led to his diagnosis. This medical “wake-up call” forced Labbett to reconsider his relationship with food, specifically his self-confessed “addiction” to sugar and chocolate.
By the time he joined the original cast of The Chase, he had already begun to yo-yo diet, but it wasn’t until the threat of permanent health deterioration that he committed to a long-term lifestyle change.
The “Lockdown Effect” on His Weight
While many struggled with weight gain during the 2020 pandemic, Labbett found it to be the catalyst for his most dramatic drop. With nurseries closed, he found himself constantly active, chasing after his young son, Lawrence.
He famously told the Loose Women panel that by the end of each day, he was too exhausted to engage in his previous habit of late-night snacking. Instead of reaching for the fridge, he would “collapse on the bed,” naturally creating a calorie deficit that led to the shedding of several stone in just a few months.
Dietary Overhaul: Cutting Sugar and Carbs
Labbett has been vocal about the fact that he did not undergo gastric sleeve surgery, despite being tempted. A GP friend advised him that surgery would be ineffective because his primary issue was sugar metabolism, which happens too quickly for a gastric band to restrict.
Key Nutritional Changes
High Protein: Increased intake of lean meats and fish to promote satiety.
Low Carbohydrates: Drastic reduction in bread, pasta, and potatoes.
Sugar Elimination: Cutting out the “piles of sweets” and chocolate bars he previously consumed.
Continuous Monitoring: As of 2026, he continues to use a Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) patch, which provides real-time data on how specific foods affect his blood sugar levels.
This data-driven approach has allowed him to identify “hidden” sugars in his diet and maintain his discipline even while filming high-pressure television shows.
Exercise: The Role of “Personal Trainer” Baloo
Exercise for Labbett hasn’t primarily involved high-intensity gym sessions, though he does attend the gym more frequently in 2026. Instead, he credits “lifestyle movement” for his fitness.
His Golden Retriever, Baloo, became his unofficial personal trainer. Daily walks across the fields near his home forced him to move more consistently. Standing at 6ft 6in, the increased activity helped improve his cardiovascular health and reduced the arthritic pain in his knees that had begun to plague him during his heavier years.
Psychological Shifts and 2026 Motivation
As he nears age 60 in 2026, Labbett’s primary motivation is no longer aesthetic; it is longevity. He has stated that his “mission” is to remain healthy enough to see his son graduate from university.
He has also discussed the social impact of his weight loss, noting that his transition from “very overweight” to “fit” improved his confidence. Now in a relationship with TV presenter Hayley Palmer, he often shares updates on their joint gym sessions, highlighting the importance of a supportive partner in maintaining long-term health goals.
Practical Information and Planning
For those looking to follow a similar health path or seeking more information on the tools Mark Labbett uses in 2026, the following details are essential.
Recommended Tools and Habits
Glucose Tracking: Use of a CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor) to manage Type 2 diabetes.
Protein First: Prioritizing protein at every meal to reduce hunger.
Daily Steps: Incorporating a minimum of 30-45 minutes of walking per day.
Early Nights: Aiming for consistent sleep to avoid the “witching hour” of late-night hunger.
Where to Find More Updates
The Chase: Catch Mark on ITV1 and ITVX.
Instagram: @markthebeastlabbett for fitness and lifestyle updates.
YouTube: Occasional appearances on health and trivia channels discussing his routine.
FAQs
How much weight has Mark Labbett lost by 2026?
He has lost a total of approximately 11 stone (70kg) since his heaviest point.
Did Mark Labbett have a gastric band?
No, he has explicitly denied having a gastric band, stating he achieved his results through diet, exercise, and glucose management.
What is Mark Labbett’s current weight?
As of early 2026, he is estimated to weigh around 18 stone (114kg).
What diet did “The Beast” follow?
He follows a high-protein, low-carb diet and has significantly reduced his intake of sugar and sweets.
Is Mark Labbett still diabetic?
He still has Type 2 diabetes, but he manages it effectively through diet and the use of a glucose monitoring patch.
How tall is Mark Labbett?
He is 6 feet 6 inches (198cm) tall.
Who is Mark Labbett’s partner in 2026?
He is in a relationship with television presenter Hayley Palmer.
How does Mark Labbett stay motivated?
His primary motivation is his son, Lawrence, and his goal to remain healthy for his son’s future milestones.
Does Mark Labbett go to the gym?
Yes, he frequently attends the gym, often working out with his partner Hayley Palmer to maintain his physique.
What clothing size is Mark Labbett now?
He has gone from a 5XL to an XL trouser and shirt size.
Why did Mark Labbett decide to lose weight?
A Type 2 diabetes diagnosis and the realization that he was struggling with basic tasks like walking up stairs served as his primary “wake-up call.”
For More lifestyle Related insights click on :
Kate Middleton Health Update: The Princess of Wales’s 2026 Journey
Morten Hjulmand: The Definitive Profile of Sporting’s Captain
To read more ,New Castle Reporter