Abstract:
Weight loss is a decrease in body weight achieved either through diet
and exercise or due to involuntary circumstances such as illness. Previous studies in
different settings have shown that dietary changes, such as ketogenic and vegetarian
diets, together with physical activity, are widely used strategies for weight
management. In South Asian contexts, traditional practices such as Ayurvedic
medicine have also been linked to weight reduction. However, limited information is
available on the specific practices followed by gym participants in the Jaffna district.
Objective: To assess the practices for weight reduction by adults who participated in
the gym centers in the Jaffna district.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among gym
participants in the Jaffna district aged between 18 and 60 years. A total of 298
participants were selected, and the required number of samples from each gym was
calculated on the basis of population proportion. The required number of participants
was recruited for the study by using convenience sampling methods, as it allowed
easy access to gym participants within the study area during the data collection
period. Data were collected through a validated, interview-administered
questionnaire consisting of four sections. Analysis was performed using SPSS
version 27. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Ethical Review Committee,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna.
Results: A total of 298 participants (age 18–60 years) were included, with a 100%
response rate. The ketogenic diet (56.0%) and the vegetarian diet (53.4%) were the
most common dietary practices. Flexibility and balanced exercises (69.1%) and
cardiovascular/aerobic exercises (50.0%) were the most frequently performed.
Evidence from Korea suggests that these exercise types are linked to lower
cardiovascular mortality. Most participants reported not using any medications for
weight reduction, while 11.7% indicated the use of Ayurvedic medicines.
Conclusion: The study shows that a lot of participants choose healthy practices to
overcome weight reduction, like choosing a ketogenic diet, flexibility and balanced
exercise, and Ayurvedic medication for weight reduction. These practices not only
support effective weight management but also suggest the importance of integrating
cultural perspectives into weight loss interventions. The findings provide baseline
evidence to guide future health promotion programs in the region.
