According to a study in the "International Journal of Obesity," overweight and obese teens who attended residential weight loss programs exhibited overall improvements in their body mass index and body image. Many nonprofit and commercial weight loss camps integrate a combination of nutrition education, dietary programming, and behavioral and psychosocial interventions to ensure lasting physical and behavioral changes.
Step 1
Research weight loss camps that specialize in your age group and specific interests, such as sports, outdoor adventure or yoga. According to the "International Journal of Obesity" study, youths who participated in residential weight loss camps with peers their age reported many psychosocial benefits related to improved self-esteem. Programs tend to encourage participants to engage in peer interactions and build positive relationships because these skills can be an important aspect of the behavioral approaches to weight loss.
Step 2
Look for programs that combine exercise, nutrition and behavior modification. In a research report presented in the "Monitor on Psychology," Charlotte Huff notes that programs combining long-term exercise and behavior modification plans are more successful than "boot camp" programs that mainly focus on short-term weight loss. You should select a weight loss camp that will prepare you to change your eating, exercise and stress management behaviors after the program is complete. Boot camp or fat loss programs often focus only on rapid weight loss, rather than overall lifestyle changes.
Step 3
Involve key family members in your treatment. Whether you're a child, teen or adult, it is helpful to include family members in your program because these individuals will have a role in your post-camp plan. Behavior modification, such as eating and grocery shopping habits, are key to improved nutrition. Regular exercise is also critical to weight management. Family members should be aware of your weight management goals so they can support your meal and exercise plans.
Step 4
Make a thorough follow-up plan for continued weight loss and weight management. Select a camp program that has a continuing support program, such as an online community or peer support network. individuals tend to continue their weight loss and weight management when they have strong support systems and positive experiences in the post-camp months. This often includes continuing to be involved in sports or physical activities, but it should also include continued involvement in peer support groups. If it is not possible to continue group work with peers from the camp program, you should consider finding weight loss support in your school, local community or an online forum.
References
- Fitwoman.com: Is the Diet Mentality Making You Fat?
- New Image Camps: Fat Camp for Kids?
- Wellspringcamps.com: Wellspring Plan: A Complete and Proven Program for a Healthy Lifestyle
- "International Journal of Obesity"; "Children's weight-loss camps: psychological benefit or jeopardy?"; LLM Walker et al; January 2003
- "Monitor on Psychology"; Charlotte Huff; "Teaming Up to Drop Pounds"; January 2004
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