A Shenzhen-based tech company, Ista360, has taken an unusual route to promote workplace wellness—paying employees to lose weight. The initiative has collectively helped its staff shed more than 950 kilograms.
As part of its annual health challenge, the company rewards employees with ₹5,000 for every half kilogram lost. On the flip side, those who gain weight are required to return a set amount for every half kilogram regained.
The program has turned into a strong motivator. One employee reportedly lost 20 kilograms in just three months through disciplined diet and exercise, walking away with a payout of ₹2.47 lakh.
This year, nearly 100 employees took part, with the company spending close to ₹1 crore on rewards and incentives. The effort has been praised for boosting both personal health and workplace morale, creating a sense of healthy competition among colleagues.
The campaign aligns with China’s growing national focus on fitness. In 2024, the National Health Commission, along with other government agencies, launched a three-year weight-management drive aimed at reducing obesity and fostering healthier lifestyles.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time such an idea has gained traction in Asia. In 2021, Indian financial-services firm Zerodha launched a similar initiative, offering employees a month’s salary as a bonus for achieving health and fitness goals.
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