China Firm Offers "Weight Loss Bonus" to Staff with $140k Fund

China Firm Offers "Weight Loss Bonus" to Staff with $140,000 Fund 

A technology firm in Shenzhen has unveiled a unique "boot camp" style program aimed at promoting weight loss among its employees, offering a significant financial incentive to spur them toward healthier lifestyles. The initiative has garnered considerable attention and praise across social media platforms in mainland, especially for its commitment of nearly one million yuan (approximately US$140,000) to fund this health drive.

Insta360, located in Guangdong province, initiated this weight loss program early last year. Since its launch, 150 employees have participated, shedding a total of 800 kilograms. The total bonuses distributed have reached 980,000 yuan, as reported by Jiupai News.

This program is structured into three-month sessions, with each session capable of accommodating 30 employees. To date, five such sessions have been conducted. Due to high demand, the company has given priority to employees facing obesity issues. Participants are grouped into three teams, with the composition of each group tailored to maximize support and accountability.

Each participant is weighed weekly, and for every 0.5kg lost on average by the group, a reward of 400 yuan (US$55) is given. However, if any group member gains weight, the entire group forfeits their bonus and incurs a fine of 500 yuan each.

Interestingly, none of the participants have gained weight during these three-month intervals since the start of the program. According to a staff member named Li, the group setup adds a moral element to the challenge, as no one wants to let their team down. This arrangement has proven effective in motivating individuals to engage more actively in sports and adhere to healthier lifestyle choices.

Li shared his personal success story, revealing that he joined the program last November due to health concerns linked to his weight. Through daily physical activities like running, swimming, and basketball, coupled with a diet plan, he managed to lose 17.5kg and earned a total of 7,410 yuan (US$1,000).

His efforts not only resulted in financial gain but also significant health improvements. "I feel lighter and more energetic, especially when playing basketball," Li noted, highlighting the physical changes he experienced.

This program's success has sparked a flood of accolades on social media, with one user expressing a wish to work at such a "fairy company," and another humorously suggesting that their daily running would quickly deplete the company's funds.

Source: SCMP

Get daily news, tips, and events in Shanghai

Connect with expat communities and industry experts

For the latest jobs&policy updates, scan the code below to follow AnyJob! 

If you have any questions about China visa applications (work visa, company registration and more), please contact our visa consultant Lisa.

Click "Wow" if you like this article