A weight loss camp or fat camp is a group weight loss program, or, according to Sander L. Gilman, losing weight through "inpatient care at a residential weight-loss camp or facility." Unlike other diet and weight management programs that involve dieting and exercising as an individual, weight loss camps involve being part of a group that has a common goal – losing weight. However, it is important to keep a few important points in mind when selecting and enrolling in a fat camp that is best suited to the amount of weight that one wishes to lose.
The Programs and Background of the Fat Camp
Before enrolling in a fat farm or camp, it is important to research the background and the weight management methods and programs offered by the camp. Make sure that it is in keeping with health norms and standards and that there have been no negative reviews of the camp in the press or on the Internet. If possible, meet a few people who used the fat farm’s facilities and get first-hand feedback.
Check out the credentials of the staff. The fat farm crew should consist of personal trainers, certified nutritionists, dietitians and counselors as well as health care professionals. The fat camp should be equipped to handle medical emergencies or have trained health care personnel on board. The menus should be healthy and well-balanced and not extreme or radical.
An Enjoyable Fat Farm Environment
While weight loss is not supposed to be all fun and games, it is important to be part of a weight management program that does not leave one feeling drained, demoralized and with a negative body image. Find out if the weight loss camp offers trial sessions to get a feel of the facilities, the attitude of the staff and the overall experience. Losing weight can be easier and quicker in a positive and conducive environment.
Duration and Cost of the Weight Loss Camp
Fat farms can be expensive, so do look around for discounts and special packages. Weight loss summer camps for teens and adults may have special packages that may be cheaper or shorter in duration. Be sure that the cost quoted is all-inclusive and there are no hidden charges that may be levied later.
The Camp’s Weight Loss Success Stories
Finally, before making a decision, ask for references of participants of the camp’s weight loss programs. Speak with them to get a first-hand view of the pros and cons of each camp. Write down the advantages and disadvantages of each weight loss camp and then, make that final choice.
Fat camps or weight loss boot camps can make the dieting and exercising process interactive, easier and enjoyable. Being able to track one’s progress against other participants, getting personalized feedback and inputs and seeing a difference in body size are all factors that make weight loss camps popular with kids, teens and adults. So, do consider history, programs, facilities and success stories of a weight loss camp before deciding to join one.
For more on losing weight, do read Simple, Effective and Easy Weight Loss Tips to Lose Pounds, Five Ways to Reduce Stress and Anxiety and How to Lose Weight Effectively After Pregnancy.
References:
Gilman, Sander L. Diets and Dieting: A Cultural Encyclopedia. New York : Routledge, 2007.
Prerna Malik - Prerna Malik is a professional freelance writer, business blogger, social media expert and obsessive organizer.
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