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Rigid structure, intense routine, and social pressure drive the growth of weight loss centers that spark debate between efficacy and risks to physical and mental health
The growing quest for rapid weight loss has led thousands of people to adopt increasingly extreme methods. In this scenario, weight loss camps in China have been attracting global attention. The information was disclosed by “BBC” through a report from the What in the World program, which details how these centers operate and why they are becoming so popular in the country.
Although at first glance they may seem like intensive training centers, many participants describe these places as true “obesity prisons.” This is because the rules are strict, the routine is highly controlled, and there is little individual freedom during the stay.
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Currently, according to the Chinese press, there are about a thousand such camps spread across the country. The growth of this model is directly linked to the increase in obesity: official data indicate that about 34% of adults are overweight and 16% are obese in China.
Military routine: daily weigh-ins, controlled diet, and up to 4 hours of training
To better understand this phenomenon, content creator TL Huang shared her experience at one of these camps. For 28 days, she lived a completely structured routine, with no possibility of leaving the premises.
Early in the morning, at 7:30 AM, participants began their day with the first weigh-in. Afterwards, they faced up to four hours of intense exercise, including activities such as spinning, trampoline, HIIT (high-intensity interval training), Tabata, and weightlifting.
Furthermore, the diet is also extremely controlled. Breakfast, for example, might include four boiled eggs, half a tomato, and two slices of cucumber. Lunch usually consists of shrimp, tofu, or steamed fish, accompanied by vegetables such as cauliflower and celery.
After dinner, participants still have to complete another exercise session, usually a one-hour spinning class. Only then does the second weigh-in of the day occur, around 7:30 PM.
Another important point is the strict control by instructors. They constantly supervise participants to prevent unhealthy foods from being consumed secretly. Additionally, absences from activities are not permitted, except in justified cases.
Despite the rigidity, Huang claims she managed to lose 6 kg in 28 days. According to her, the experience provided a complete “reset” and brought the discipline she needed at that moment.
Fast results, but experts warn of serious risks
Although the results may seem appealing, experts issue an important warning. Nutritionist and personal trainer Luke Hanna highlights that some of these camps aim for losses of up to 1 kg per day — a pace considered extremely unsafe.
According to him, accelerated weight loss can lead to a reduction not only in fat but also in muscle mass, which is especially concerning in young people and children. Additionally, there are risks of impacts on physical development, such as bone problems and reduced final height.
On the other hand, psychological risks are also relevant. Extreme methods can significantly increase the chance of developing eating disorders, in addition to affecting an individual’s relationship with food.
Another critical point is the sustainability of the results. According to experts, many people quickly regain the lost weight upon returning to their normal routine, precisely because the causes of weight gain were not addressed.
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS), for example, recommends a gradual loss of between 500g and 1kg per week, combined with healthy habits such as consuming five portions of fruits and vegetables daily and practicing at least 150 minutes of weekly exercise.
Popularity grows with social media and cultural pressure
The popularization of these camps did not happen by chance. Initially, they gained visibility in the 2000s, after TV shows showcased their operation. However, the true growth occurred in the last 10 years, driven by social media.
Today, digital platforms are filled with videos showing intense routines, physical transformations, and participant testimonials. This content ends up encouraging other people to seek quick solutions for weight loss.
Furthermore, there is a strong cultural component involved. According to journalist Wanqing Zhang, China has low tolerance for body diversity, which causes overweight people to face discrimination in the workplace and in personal relationships.
Another factor contributing to the problem is the modern lifestyle. The frequent consumption of refined carbohydrates, such as rice, pasta, and gyoza, combined with a sedentary lifestyle caused by excessive use of cell phones and tablets, further aggravates the scenario.
Given this, the camps emerge as an immediate — albeit controversial — alternative for those seeking quick results.
Would you face such an extreme method to lose weight quickly, or do you believe that balance is still the best path?
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