A woman has recounted her experience inside a Chinese ‘fat prison’ where she spent 28 days following strict rules and routines. TL Huang, an Australian living in China, detailed her time in the weight loss facility in Guangzhou. The institution enforced a ban on unhealthy foods like instant noodles and tightly controlled the residents’ lives within its walls.
According to Huang, inmates were confined to dormitories with bunk beds, surrounded by high concrete barriers, gates, and electric fences. Security personnel monitored entry and exit points continuously, preventing anyone from leaving without valid reasons. Huang described the stringent regulations, emphasizing that daily life was structured and supervised, with no opportunity to escape the premises.
Huang’s admission to the camp, a state-sponsored facility aimed at addressing China’s high obesity rates, came at her mother’s suggestion after she gained weight from consuming takeout meals. She discovered that her every move was overseen by the staff, who conducted mandatory weigh-ins twice a day and prescribed rigorous four-hour exercise sessions. Meals were portion-controlled, featuring dishes like prawns with vegetables, chili steamed fish, and braised chicken.
After three weeks, Huang fell ill with the flu and a high fever, requiring hospitalization. Despite feeling weak and drained, she persevered through the demanding routine. In China, over half of the adult population is classified as overweight or obese, with projections indicating a potential increase to two-thirds by 2030. These ‘fat prisons’ aim to address the obesity epidemic, with participants paying substantial fees for accommodation, meals, and workouts.
Huang disclosed that she paid $600 for the program, covering all expenses. Despite the challenging experience, she expressed no regrets, attributing her decision to the desire for weight loss and a healthier lifestyle. She acknowledged the difficulty of adjusting to the strict regimen but noted the positive impact on her routine and habits. Ultimately, Huang shed 6kg during her month-long stay, emphasizing the personal growth and discipline gained from the experience.
Reflecting on her time in the camp, Huang shared insights into the structured environment, including weighing her lunch to monitor calorie intake. Despite the intensity of the program, she viewed it as a transformative journey that empowered her to make healthier choices. Huang encouraged others considering similar programs to focus on the long-term benefits of building sustainable habits and knowledge for ongoing health improvement.