An Australian woman has given a shocking account of life inside one of China's so-called 'fat prisons', describing a 28-day regime of enforced hunger, sleep deprivation, and extreme exercise that ultimately left her hospitalised.
The Gruelling Regime Behind Locked Gates
TL Huang, an expat living in China, voluntarily checked into the rigorous facility in Guangzhou on her mother's recommendation after her weight increased due to a diet of takeaways. She quickly discovered her entire existence would be micromanaged within the camp's confines, which are secured by tall concrete walls, steel gates, and electric fencing, with security personnel monitoring all entry and exit points around the clock.
"You're not allowed to leave the area without valid reasons, you may live with bunk mates, every day is regimented and controlled," Huang explained in a social media video. "The gate is closed 24/7 and you can't sneak out." Inmates are housed in cramped dormitories with bunk beds, forbidden from leaving the premises.
Strict Routines and a Hospital Crisis
The daily schedule was relentless. Huang was subjected to forced weigh-ins both morning and night, alongside four hours of intense daily exercise. Meals were small, strictly controlled by staff, and consisted of options like prawns with vegetables, chilli steamed fish, or braised chicken. All unhealthy foods, including instant noodles, were banned and confiscated on arrival.
The punishing routine took a severe toll. Three weeks into the programme, Huang was struck down with flu and a 39°C fever, landing her in hospital. "I have less energy to keep exercising for four hours. Now I am sick and miserable and have no energy," she told her followers at the time.
National Crisis and Personal Results
These extreme camps exist against the backdrop of a major public health issue in China. Latest data indicates that over half of the country's 1.22 billion adults are classified as overweight or obese. A National Health Commission report estimates this figure could rise to two-thirds by 2030. State-sponsored 'fat prisons' have been established to combat this trend, with participants paying hundreds of dollars to enrol.
Huang paid $600 (approximately £298) for her 28-day stint, which covered accommodation, food, and workouts. Despite the ordeal, she claims to have no regrets. She highlighted the contrast with her previous lifestyle of erratic sleep and food delivery meals while travelling in Japan and China.
"It was a good deal for me because the cost was cheaper than my rent in Melbourne and I wanted to lose weight, restart my routine and also build better habits," she told the Daily Mail. She even documented weighing her lunch to track calorie intake.
In the end, TL Huang lost 6kg during her four-week incarceration. She acknowledges the camp seems "really intense" but found liberation in completing the challenge. "I know how hard the first step is when it comes to losing weight," she said, adding that such a programme can be an "amazing first step" for building the habits and knowledge needed for a sustained health journey.
