Core Viewpoint - The "Weight Management Professional Competency Training Project" has been launched to address the increasing demand for professional weight management services in China, aiming to establish a comprehensive training and certification system in the field [1][2]. Group 1: Project Overview - The project is initiated by the China National Health Association to respond to the "Healthy China 2030" plan and the National Nutrition Plan (2017-2030) [1]. - The project aims to create a three-in-one model of "scientific standards + authoritative certification + intelligent assessment" to tackle the issues of talent shortage and lack of service standards in the industry [1][2]. - The training program will cover various disciplines including nutrition, sports science, and medicine, establishing a scientific evaluation system [1]. Group 2: Industry Challenges and Goals - The current obesity issue in China has led to a surge in demand for professional weight management services, but the industry faces challenges such as talent shortages and non-standardized services [2]. - The project aims to cultivate a group of high-quality weight management professionals to inject new vitality into the industry and promote its development towards standardization, professionalism, and scientific management [2]. - The China National Health Association plans to launch a series of specialized training courses to support the project, creating a full-chain talent cultivation system from training to employment [2].

Core Insights - The launch of the "Weight Management Professional Competency Training Program" aims to address the shortage of professional talent and the lack of service standards in the weight management industry, responding to national health initiatives [1][2][10] - The program is designed to create a comprehensive training and certification system that integrates nutrition, exercise science, and medicine, establishing a scientific evaluation framework for weight management professionals [3][13] Industry Context - China's obesity issue has become a significant public health challenge, exacerbating chronic disease burdens and hindering the achievement of health goals [2] - There is a growing market demand for professional weight management services, but the industry faces challenges such as talent shortages and the prevalence of pseudoscience [2] Project Objectives - The project aims to set industry standards, provide a framework for service quality, and create pathways for professional development within the weight management sector [2][10] - It emphasizes the importance of quality control, empowerment through comprehensive training services, and enhancing the value of certifications in the industry [3] Expert Contributions - Experts from various fields provided insights on the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach to weight management, highlighting the need for collaboration in addressing obesity and chronic disease prevention [7] - The program includes a robust curriculum covering nutrition, psychology, and practical skills in weight management, ensuring high-quality training [10] Strategic Partnerships - A strategic cooperation agreement was signed between the China National Health Association and ATA, aiming to leverage the association's credibility and ATA's expertise in examination and evaluation technology [11] Future Development - The initiative marks a new phase for the weight management industry, focusing on scientific, standardized, and professional development [13] - A comprehensive talent cultivation system will be established, encompassing training, assessment, certification, and employment opportunities [13]