Weight Loss Camps Surge in China Amid Rising Obesity Rates
As obesity rates soar in China, weight loss camps are becoming increasingly popular. With over half of the adult population classified as overweight or obese, these camps aim to address what authorities describe as a major public health crisis. Yang Qiao, a 23-year-old teacher, is one of many who have turned to these camps for help. After joining a camp in Chengdu, she lost 30 kilograms by adhering to a strict diet and exercise regime.
The camp environment is highly structured, featuring rigorous activities like long-distance brisk walks and boxing sessions, all under the watchful eye of trainers. Yang recalls the temptation of food stalls along her walking route but credits the constant supervision for keeping her on track. "I thought about it but I couldn't eat anything because the coaches were constantly watching me," she stated. The camps enforce strict rules, with participants confined to the premises from Monday to Saturday, and any infractions result in punishment.
In response to the growing obesity epidemic, the National Health Commission (NHC) has published guidelines to standardize obesity diagnosis and treatment. The rising obesity rates are attributed to various factors, including increased income leading to higher food consumption and stressful job conditions that contribute to hormonal imbalances.
Government Initiatives and Social Impacts
In July, the Chinese government initiated a three-year campaign aimed at reducing the intake of unhealthy foods in schools and promoting physical activity among students and staff. Experts like Pan Wang, an associate professor at the University of New South Wales, emphasize the need for careful monitoring of diets and exercise programs, warning that certain practices in weight loss camps could pose health risks.
The societal pressure to conform to beauty standards fuels the demand for these camps, as being thin is often equated with social capital. Participants, such as Yang, leverage social media to document their weight loss journeys, creating a sense of accountability. Yang shares her daily progress on platforms akin to TikTok and Instagram, stating, "If I don’t wake up every day to film these videos, I won’t have any content to post, and everyone will know I’m slacking off."
Zhao Yuyang, another camp participant, echoes the sentiment of patience in weight loss, having lost over 5 kilograms in a month. "You don't get fat in one bite, so to lose pounds, you have to be patient," she advises.
