Weight loss camps are typically held during the summer and marketed to children and teens looking to lose weight fast. Fitness camps are also available for adults to stay for a week or longer to drop pounds quickly. After your initial quick weight loss, you must continue good eating and exercise habits at home to sustain results. Ask your doctor about recommendations for a safe and effective weight loss camp.
Camps for Children
During a summer session at a child or teen weight loss camp, campers eat calorie controlled meals and participate in daily activities that may include morning hikes, cardio workouts and kayaking trips. Choose a weight loss camp that has current licensing and accreditation through the American Camp Association. Find out the camp's weight loss philosophy. Also, inquire about what training the staff has in regards to helping children lose weight. The camp should be able to provide statistics on average weight loss during stay. A doctor, dietitian and physical trainer should be staffed by the weight loss camp. Family counseling should be available to ensure that good diet and exercise habits are continued at home. Since weight loss camps are expensive, find out if the establishment offers any type of financing options.
Adult Programs
Weight loss camps are not only for children and teens. Week long and summer sessions are available for adults at establishments across the country. Adults sign up for a minimum week long stay to get in shape and learn how to control their diets. You may participate in boot camp style training sessions that involve drills where you perform exercises like running, jumping jacks, push-ups, crunches and planks. Other activities may include hikes, swims and rowing trips. Look for weight loss camps that not only feed you calorie controlled meals, but also have cooking classes that instruct you on how to make healthy meals.
Benefits
According to a 2005 study conducted on the effectiveness of weight loss camps and printed in the journal "Pediatrics," adolescents who attended a six-week weight loss camp lost an average of 13 lbs. Not only did the adolescents lose weight, the camp was also able to help improve the subject's self-esteem. Blood pressure and body fat levels are improved as well after multi-week stays at a weight loss camp.
Considerations
Although you may lose weight quickly at a weight loss camp, you must continue the habits at home to keep the weight off. Exercise should be easier, since you are likely to see an improvement in your fitness level. According to a 2010 study performed by the Living Well Foundation, after six and eight week programs, campers experienced improved one-mile run times. You will also know what type of dietary changes you need to make to keep calorie intake modest.
References
- "Pediatrics;" Camp jump start: effects of a residential summer weight-loss camp for older children and adolescents; J Huelsing et al; April 2010
- "American Family Physician;" Weight-loss Camps and Their Effect on Childhood Obesity; Caroline Wellberry MD; January 2006
- American Camp Association: Safety Tips
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