Having a precise goal has the merit of giving dieters and fitness fanatics a gauge with which they can measure their success then reward themselves at appropriate times for any progress they think they have made. In striving for such success many will take out a gym membership and buy fitness equipment and clothing, thus producing huge economic benefits. "Keeping fit with a definite goal is itself not problematic at all," says Chen Hanbin, a physician in the department of clinical psychology of Hangzhou First People's Hospital.

"The ultimate goal of going to a gym or pursuing a sport is to keep you healthy and happy.

"There is no correlation between health and calories, and using calories burned as a sole indicator often brings anxiety and pressure that in the long run is detrimental to one's fitness goals."

In a recent survey on Sina Weibo on the simple and effective ways of losing weight, more than 80 percent of respondents said they believed the adage "Just watch your mouth and move your legs" held merit. However, some may argue that if losing weight were that simple nobody would be overweight.

Lin Yuanyuan, 34, an office worker, is willing to talk a lot about her own inspiration. Lin, 1.65 cm tall and slender, even though she is 61 kg after earlier being 48 kg. She feels more energetic and sporty, and perfectly in tune with her outgoing personality, she says.