Cedric Bryant, chief science officer at the American Council on Exercise, identifies weight-loss camps as an emerging trend among those seeking to lose weight. As enrollment in weight-loss camps climbs, so do the various styles of camps targeting different audiences. Summer weight-loss camps in Florida accommodate all ages, and offer approaches ranging from militaristic boot camps to spa-like retreats.
Considerations
According to Paul J. Gately, a professor of exercise and obesity, it's relatively simple for the average person to shed pounds in the highly regulated environment of a sleep-away boot camp, but attitudes and behaviors toward food and exercise must permanently change for the weight to stay off. Look for camps providing amenities such as cooking classes, so you can learn how to prepare tasty, nutritious meals at home, and multiple choices for physical activity, because you're more likely to exercise if you enjoy it.
Fitness Features
With its consistently good weather and access to the ocean and lakes, Florida boasts athletic opportunities cooler climates can't always provide. With many camps directly on the beach or lakeside, campers frequently have access to water sports such swimming, canoeing and kayaking. Some camps even offer yoga and cardio classes on the beach. Other outdoor sports may include biking, tennis, volleyball, basketball, badminton and soccer. Camps for youngsters might feature game-based activities like paintball courses. Indoors, instructors may teach classes in kickboxing, aerobics, Pilates and salsa dancing. Most camps come equipped with gyms for weightlifting, and some employ personal trainers.
Nutrition
Quality camps employ a nutritionist and/or dietitian to teach participants healthy eating habits, according to Weightlosscamps.com. Some camps offer workshops with topics ranging from menu planning to methods of dealing with picky eaters. Other camps take field trips to grocery stores, where participants learn to read labels, or go to fast food restaurants to determine healthy meal choices. Additionally, some programs offer cognitive behavioral therapy to increase the likelihood participants will continue their newly adopted lifestyle after returning home.
Children and Teenagers
Sleep-away camps have the potential to be an effective and nurturing way for youth to develop healthful habits. Surrounded by peers who share their challenges and goals, together they can focus on enhancing their health and, consequently, their body image. The Wellspring chain has a branch in a former resort, right on the beach in St. Petersburg, with four, six or eight-week programs for youth ages 11 to 18. New Image Camp at Vanguard accepts younger children as well as teens; campers ages 7 to 19 learn in groups separated by age group and gender. Located on Lake Pierce in central Florida, camp perks include optional excursions to nearby Orlando theme parks.
Families and Individuals
Oftentimes, multiple members of a family share similar struggles with food and exercise. The Pritikin Family Program at the Doral Golf Resort and Spa in Miami focuses on improving nutrition and fitness for children and adults. Families with children ages 9 and up can choose between one- or two-week immersion programs. Weight-loss camps for individuals and adults exist as well. Getaway Fitness in St. Pete Beach features rigorous training by day and lavish services and lodging by night, with accommodation in private luxury hotel rooms includes and on-site spa services.
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