YouTuber Stan Browny has documented his 50-hour stay inside one of China's controversial residential weight-loss camps, which he describes as feeling "really looks and feels like a prison." In his video titled I Survived China's Fat Loss Prison, Browny signs himself into a walled compound featuring cameras, high walls, wire fencing and strict food rules.
"Behind me is a prison made for fat people," he says in the video. "But the people here aren't real prisoners. They are paying to be locked up in here. So, they are forced to lose weight."
Military-style regime and costs
These facilities are intensive, military-style weight-loss camps where people voluntarily pay to live under tight control, often roughly $420 to $1,000+ a month (£330 to £780). The industry has reportedly boomed across China, with over 1,000 such camps now in operation.
Upon arrival, Browny was weighed at 82.9kg (183lbs). He reveals that residents are monitored "extremely strictly," stepping on the scales "twice every single day." Workouts are relentless, and missing a daily target can result in punishment with more training.
"They don't lose enough weight," his translator explains. "So, I need to work out extra because they have to hit their weight loss target at the end of the day. Every day."
Food, workouts, and results
Food is deliberately spartan, with trays of vegetables, chicken and minimal carbs. "Everyone was standing in line. Getting the same food," he said. Browny estimates one meal at around 350 calories, adding: "I eat around 3,200 calories a day."
In just 50 hours, including "seven insane workouts in just two days," Browny claims he dropped 2.3kg (5lbs). "My final weight is… 80.5kg," he says.
Rabies scare and cat controversy
The stay takes a worrying turn when he is scratched by a stray cat at the camp, sparking panic and a dash to hospital for a rabies vaccination. "Yeah, I think it's better to go to the hospital," he says, later adding: "I read online rabies always leads to death if not treated."
There is also chaos when some at the camp suggest removing the cats after the incident. "I need to stop the killing of the cat," Stan insists, before he approaches the boss to plead for more time. "They won't kill the cat… It's going to be sent to the hospital," he later confirms.
Health concerns and conclusion
Weight-loss "prisons" have exploded in popularity due to rapid results, viral social media attention and cultural pressure around changing body standards. Health experts warn that losing weight too quickly can be dangerous, with risks including muscle loss, nutrient deficiencies, fatigue, injury and psychological harm linked to constant surveillance and restriction, the BBC reported.
Browny himself admits the dramatic drop may not all be fat: "Most of the weight I just lost was water weight." Even so, he concludes: "Yes, this place works… for some people this might be the answer."
