People lose weight by becoming more active, consuming fewer calories or a combination of both. Often, people look for resources that provide a jump start to weight loss efforts or offer a quick fix to get rid of a few extra pounds. Many organizations respond to concerns about fitness and obesity with weight loss programs. Whether you are looking for a structured program or an informal group, there are many places from which to choose both in the usual places and in places not thought of as weight loss resources.
Community Organizations
Community organizations include faith-based organizations such as churches and synagogues, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and employers. Many of these organizations offer weight-loss programs. Some employers offer wellness programs that include a weight-loss component with support, educational materials and space for group meetings and weigh-ins. Churches organize groups around weight loss goals and sometimes join national challenges. Community nonprofits such as the YMCA and family service organizations, offer fitness and weight loss programs to help participants limit their risk for developing serious medical conditions.
Medical Facilities
Medical facilities such as the Duke University Health System in North Carolina often offer a wide range of weight loss programs -- including health and fitness centers, weight loss surgery centers, residential programs for people who are obese, treatment programs for eating disorders and weight loss programs to help targeted populations such as children, the elderly and minority communities. Your doctor can also help with weight loss by providing you with information and referrals.
Gyms and Fitness Facilities
Membership at gyms or fitness facilities help you lose weight by engaging in regular exercise. Fitness instructors at the facilities can help you design an exercise program for optimal weight loss and maintenance. Some facilities offer a wide range of equipment and classes so you can find what works best for you. Many gyms and fitness centers also offer added services such as nutrition education and weight loss counseling programs. Curves, a national chain that focuses on weight loss for women, offers a program based on a 30 minute workout.
Commercial Weight-Loss Companies
Commercial weight loss companies such as Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig, operate local programs in offices and other locations throughout communities. The programs require you to pay a registration or joining fee and periodic membership fees. Weight Watchers groups meet locally, or online, and provide support, nutrition education, weight monitoring and other resources for weight loss.
Spas, Hotels and Camps
Guests at weight loss spas, hotels and camps participate in residential weight loss programs that range from access to exercise equipment to complete packages that include medical professionals, fitness instructors, dietitians and exercise facilities with saunas -- and daily classes and activities. Some spas and hotels include weight loss programs as one service among their other services, while others focus solely on weight loss. Green Valley Spas in Utah guarantees weight loss for participants in its 23-day package. Boot camps and fat camps offer an aggressive exercise and diet program to help participants lose weight. An example is Camp Technique in California that offers a boot camp, lifestyle and extreme weight loss programs.
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