About Weight Watchers

Overview

Founded in 1963 by Jean Nidetch, Weight Watchers has become a globally recognized weight-loss program. The company originally started out as a group of friends gathering at a small home in Queens, New York. Today, according to WeightWatchers.com, there are millions of members world wide.

Plans

At the end of 2008, Weight Watchers introduced its new "Momentum Plan." This plan encompasses four basic principles of eating smarter, being more physically active, creating support networks and developing healthier habits. Members have a greater responsibility in eating the right foods based on their daily points allowance, nutritional guidelines and their physical activity level.

The "Momentum Plan" also teaches members how to deal with hunger, stay fuller longer and defeat temptations.

Points System

Every food item has a "Points" value based on calories, fiber and fat. For example, an Italian Turkey Burger is five points and a plate of raviolis with marinara sauce is 10 points. These "points" help members to monitor and measure how much food they eat. Each member is given a daily point allowance based on her height, weight, activity level and age. Additional points are awarded in return for exercising. The more you exercise, the more additional points you get, and the more you can eat.

Meetings

Weight Watchers offers weekly meetings in nearly about every major city throughout the world. Meetings are designed to provide local support, nutritional education and fitness ideas for Weight Watchers members. Meetings are led by an experienced member of Weight Watchers. The leader helps set initial goals, facilitates weigh-ins and provides resources.

Meetings are typically held on a weekly basis and are confidential, fun and friendly. Both men and women are encouraged to join. Fees associated with joining a meetings group range from about $15 per week to $40 per month.

On-Line Program

Weight Watchers has an in-depth compilation of resources for members who are too busy to join meetings or would like the on-line program in addition to meetings. The on-line subscription has a three-month plan for $65, and each additional month is priced at $16.95. A one month plan costs $46.90 with additional months priced at $16.95.

Weight Watchers On-Line offers thousands of articles and recipes, motivational tips, a system for tracking your food intake and points plan, workout tips and exercise videos.

Membership Prohibitions

Weight Watchers prohibits the following people from participating in its weight loss program: children under 10 years old, people diagnosed with bulimia nervosa, women who are pregnant and those whose weight is less than five pounds above the minimum weight of the Weight Watchers Weight Ranges.

Warning

Consult a physician before participating in any diet or exercise program. Also, weight loss can cause changes within the body that should be monitored regularly.