Lunar New Year Weight Gain Concerns Rise Among Young Women

As the Lunar New Year approaches, a growing number of women in their 20s and 30s are expressing concerns about potential weight gain during the holiday period, according to a recent survey by Enrise, a home training platform.

Past Experiences and Future Expectations

The survey revealed that a majority of female members aged 20 to 30 reported having gained weight during previous Lunar New Year holidays. More than half anticipate a similar outcome this year. Most respondents predict a weight increase of 1 to 2 kg (approximately 2.2 to 4.4 pounds), even as many foresee gains of 2 to 3 kg (approximately 4.4 to 6.6 pounds).

Post-Holiday Fitness Plans

A significant number of those surveyed have already planned exercise routines to begin immediately after the holidays, with a primary focus on weight loss and body shape management. Many have set ambitious goals, aiming to lose 5 kg (approximately 11 pounds) or more in a relatively short period.

Causes of Holiday Weight Gain

Increased consumption of holiday foods was identified as the most common contributor to weight gain. The combination of late-night eating, social drinking and reduced physical activity due to family gatherings also plays a significant role. This suggests that changes in sleep schedules and decreased activity levels, in addition to overeating, contribute to weight fluctuations.

Challenges to Resuming Exercise

Several factors hinder the resumption of exercise after the holidays, including disrupted routines, lack of motivation, and colder weather. Re-establishing pre-holiday habits appears to be the biggest challenge for many.

Preference for Home Workouts

Home-based training is a popular choice for post-holiday fitness. Home Pilates, in particular, is gaining traction due to its flexibility in terms of time and location, and its perceived effectiveness for body shaping and line management.

Expert Insight

Kim Bong-gi, CEO of Enrise, noted that women in their 20s and 30s are increasingly seeking sustainable exercise options that can be incorporated both before and after the Lunar New Year, rather than relying on drastic, short-term weight loss methods. “Home Pilates is establishing itself as a stable option since there are fewer restrictions on time, space, and weather, and expectations for body shape management are high,” he stated.