BioSocial Health journal 3060-6268 2 3 2025 10 20 Exploring Biosocial Barriers and Enablers to Weight Loss: A Qualitative Study of a 12-Week Workplace Program for Overweight and Obese Office Workers 116 123 10.34172/bshj.103 EN Muhamad Hishamudin Mohmad Hasim https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4651-2899 Christopher Thiam Seong Lim Yin Sze Lim Shi-Hui Cheng https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3519-0951 Journal Article 10.34172/bshj.103 2025 07 23 2025 08 11 Introduction: Although workplace weight management programs (WMPs) are increasingly implemented to address obesity, maintaining long-term behavior change remains a key challenge. This study explores the biosocial barriers and enablers influencing the perceptions, motivations, and experiences of overweight and obese Malaysian office workers in a 12-week WMP. Methods: Three focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with 28 overweight and obese office workers (mixed gender). All data were analysed thematically using NVivo software. Results: Seven themes emerged: (1) Psychological motivation to join WMP, (2) Anticipated social benefits, (3) Biosocial challenges in practice, (4) Subjective failure, (5) Enablers of positive change, (6) Role of support networks in sustaining change, and (7) Planned long-term lifestyle change. Participants were motivated by health concerns, self-improvement goals, and support from peers and family. Key enablers included structured guidance during the program, increased nutritional awareness, and positive social influence. However, participants reported persistent biosocial barriers, including sedentary work routines, social pressures around food, irregular eating habits, and stress-induced eating. Sustained behavior change was more likely when individuals developed consistent routines and intrinsic motivation. Conclusion: Addressing both individual and environmental barriers, while enhancing enablers, can improve long-term adherence and outcomes. These insights can guide the development of more tailored, sustainable WMPs within organizational health promotion efforts.