Half of UK adults delay weight loss, Gen Z most likely to wait

A new survey has found that half of UK adults have delayed efforts to lose weight, with those aged 18-27, commonly known as Generation Z, the most likely to put off tackling the issue.

Among them, 63% admitted to postponing weight loss efforts, while over one in five adults (22%) across all age groups reported delaying for three years or more.

The research, conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Slimming World, highlights a growing trend of procrastination when it comes to weight management.

Four in ten respondents said they thought about losing weight at least once a week but failed to take action.

Self-doubt and fear of failure were key factors for the delay, according to psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos.

She explained, “Delaying weight loss stems from fear of failure and feeling comfortable with what’s familiar.

Each time we put off change, we chip away at our confidence, creating a cycle where taking action seems harder and harder.”

Many respondents waited for a “final straw” moment before deciding to act. C

Common triggers included struggling to fit into clothes (14%), feeling unfit (12%), and experiencing discomfort in social situations (10%).

Cost of Obesity and Long-Term Risks

The financial and health-related costs of obesity in the UK are significant.

The economic burden has risen from £58bn in 2020 to £98bn, according to data from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.

Additionally, studies indicate that children with obesity are five times more likely to grow into adults living with obesity, underlining the urgent need for early intervention.

Despite growing interest in weight-loss medications, such as injections, nearly half of survey respondents (48%) said they would not consider using them.

Concerns included potential side effects (32%) and uncertainty about long-term safety (21%).

Dr Jemma Donovan, Slimming World’s Research Manager, warned that while weight-loss drugs might seem like a quick fix, they often fail to provide the long-term benefits associated with sustainable lifestyle changes.

The Role of Support in Restoring Self-Belief

The survey also revealed that a lack of self-belief is a significant barrier to weight loss. Before joining Slimming World, only 40% of new members believed they could achieve their weight-loss goals.

However, after attending just one session, this figure rose to 97%, with participants reporting increased motivation, self-determination, and confidence.

Dr Donovan emphasised the importance of group-based support in overcoming these challenges.

“Our research confirms what so many of our members tell us. After many years of feeling hopeless, out of control and desperate about their weight, new members quickly experience a powerful shift in self-belief and confidence, restoring their hope about what they can achieve.”

This transformation was attributed to a combination of educational resources, peer support, and the empowerment that comes from seeing others succeed.

As Dr Papadopoulos noted, “In pulling on the strength that comes from that kind of togetherness, we create something powerful – a supportive accountability network that transforms our personal intentions into collective motivation.”

With two-thirds of UK adults now classified as overweight or obese, experts stress the importance of addressing not just physical health but the emotional and psychological barriers to weight loss. The research offers a glimmer of hope for those struggling to take the first step, with evidence that the right support can make all the difference.