Male perceptions and experiences of weight loss initiatives: Considerations for sustainable lifestyle practices

This study employed a qualitative descriptive design to evaluate adult male perceptions and lived experiences of weight loss initiatives. In doing so, this study also aimed to understand the support mechanisms used by men when targeting weight loss, with a view to informing sustainable lifestyle practices. Following convenience sampling and informed consent, a total of 24 participants (age: 46 ± 10 yrs.; body mass: 91.1 ± 13.2 kg; height: 1.79 ± 0.06 m; BMI: 28.5 ± 4.4 kg·m2) took part in four focus group interviews (FGIs). These semi-structured interviews were undertaken using a standardised set of open-ended questions, with additional lines of enquiry employed where appropriate. Interviews were audio-recorded (MP3 format) and subsequently transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. Using Braun and Clarkes six-stage model, structured thematic analysis highlighted four main themes: 1) male-specific perceptions of dieting and weight loss; 2) barriers to achieving dietary goals; 3) point-of-realisation and motivators for change; and 4) key factors for sustainable dietary control. Overall, the men perceived diets/dieting in a negative light, acknowledging the female-centric nature of weight loss programs, the need for male-specific narratives and the cyclical nature of dieting. This was coupled with barriers such as low motivation (and expectations of failure), lifestyle demands and misinformation (particularly around diets). Drivers for change focused on aesthetics over health factors and outlined an impulsiveness to diet. Three specific support systems were highlighted as potentially effective strategies to elicit sustainable engagement with dietary management. Practical implications from this study highlighted this "buddy-mentor-spousal" support system as fundamental to early and sustained success, with emphasis towards spousal support. Additionally, for sustainable lifestyle practices applicable to adult men, weight-loss initiatives should consider opportunistic simplicity coupled with quick-wins, early rewards and a tailored degree of social competitiveness around aesthetic gains, ahead of health-specific requirements.