Men of Megin: Boxing and Brotherhood Build Mental Health Resilience in Lincoln
A community-led initiative in Lincoln is proving that for men grappling with mental health issues, shared physical challenges can be a powerful first step toward emotional healing. Men of Megin brings together individuals from across Lincolnshire and beyond, addressing the silent struggles many men face: isolation, mental health challenges, addiction, and a profound lack of genuine connection.
Born from Personal Struggle and Lived Experience
The project is rooted in lived experience rather than abstract theory, emerging from years of personal hardship. Ryan Kidwell, founder and director, shared his journey: "I lost my dad to cancer when I was 15, which had a profound impact on my life and led to an 18-year battle with addiction and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Later, losing my mum to Covid became a turning point - a moment that forced deep reflection and ultimately change."
He continued: "Along that journey, I learned the importance of understanding emotions rather than suppressing them, and that it's okay to feel - whether that's grief, anger, fear, or uncertainty. Those lessons, and the tools gathered through lived experience, now form the foundation of Men of Megin and the message it carries."
A Holistic Approach to Strengthening Mind, Body, and Emotion
Men of Megin is a community-led initiative focused on fortifying mind, body, and emotion through shared experiences. It unites men through diverse activities:
- Physical training and boxing circuits
- Hiking in natural settings
- Breathwork and cold water immersion
- Honest, judgment-free conversations
A core component of their work involves helping men recognize, understand, and sit with their emotions in healthy ways, rather than numbing or avoiding them. The aim is to cultivate a grounded brotherhood where men can authentically show up, build resilience, and support one another without fear of judgment.
Rapid Growth and Expanding Community Impact
Since its launch, the community has experienced swift growth and tangible achievements:
- Establishing a regular boxing circuit in partnership with Lincoln Fight Factory
- Completing a 23-man guided hike across the Peak District
- Launching a local men's circle support group
- Forming a partnership with UltraFlex Gym Lincoln to expand structured training and community support opportunities
Many participants are in recovery, managing mental health challenges, or simply seeking healthier ways to channel stress and reconnect with themselves and others. What consistently emerges is the powerful impact of shared challenge, emotional awareness, routine, and genuine connection.
A Message Rooted in Real Experience
Ryan Kidwell emphasized: "Men of Megin was born from real struggle, not theory. Learning to understand my emotions and being okay with them was a turning point in my life. The lessons I've learned through loss, addiction, and recovery are ones I know can help other men who are struggling, because I've lived it."
The initiative's WhatsApp community has grown to over 220 members in its first month alone, reflecting the urgent need for such supportive spaces. Men of Megin continues to build a resilient network where physical challenge opens doors to emotional healing and lasting brotherhood.
