Growing health awareness feeds new 'slimming economy'

Fit for purpose

Fitness participation is rising, according to the 2024 China Sports and Fitness Industry Data Report.

As of December 2024, China had 87.5 million fitness club members, with active members averaging 5.32 visits per month, and short-term passes accounting for over 60 percent of purchases.

Wu Qingcheng's experience with weight loss offers an insight into the national trend. At 43, the coffee shop owner and fitness coach in Tianjin has experienced the challenge of balancing career demands with his health.

When Wu returned from Japan in 2009, his work in finance brought success, but also excess. Business banquets and irregular schedules pushed his weight from 60 kg to 80 kg. "The hardest part wasn't controlling my diet but maintaining a regular training routine amid an irregular work schedule," said Wu.

Over two years, he shed 10 kg, stabilizing his weight at 70 kg, which he has maintained. As he explored exercise routines and challenged himself, Wu realized fitness was more than building muscle.

"Physical training can bring real improvement to both me and others, and with my own experience, becoming a coach felt like a natural step," said Wu.

His approach reflects a shift from crash diets toward sustainable habits, and he emphasizes three basics: regular exercise, balanced meals, and rest.

"The first step is simply to move. For beginners, even a simple routine can work, but if you find it hard to stay motivated, try group classes — the atmosphere will push you forward," said Wu.

On diet, he advises weighing portions. "It gives you a real sense of what 'a portion' actually means and warns against blindly cutting calories," said Wu.

He prefers home cooking over light meals and cautions against demonizing carbohydrates. Crucially, he makes a distinction between losing weight and losing fat.

"People want quick results, but what's lost too fast often comes back just as fast, while gradual changes — from eating out to home-cooked meals, then tracking calories — help the body and mind adjust," said Wu.

Technology also plays a role. Wu uses a heart rate monitor and smartwatch, believing such tools provide "emotional encouragement" and support consistent results.