You are a weight loss expert or at least you feel like one as you progress along your dieting journey. If you have struggled with weight for some period of time you know support is essential to success in dropping pounds. Families and friends can help meet this need, but only those in the same position can truly relate to the triumphs and tragedies associated with dieting. Conduct your own weight loss support group to bring together others like you so you can help one another.
Step 1
Determine what will be the main focus of your weight loss group. For example your group may be results oriented and conduct weekly weigh-ins such as the Weight Watchers program or your group could concentrate on the psychology of overeating. The group could advocate a particular diet or fitness plan as well. Write down a mission statement for what you want the nature of your group to be and be prepared to disseminate this information to future members.
Step 2
Send out feelers to family, friends and co-workers. Let them know you are starting a group and find out what interest there may be amongst them as well as their associates. Gather up the names and telephone numbers of potential support group members.
Step 3
Find a location for your meetings. You may be able to use your living room but it might be more feasible to meet in a church or community center. Contact these facilities to determine if they are willing to donate a room once a week for your weight loss support group.
Step 4
Set dates and times for your meetings. Keep a log of members and prepare notes prior to each meeting based on information you want to give and topics you want to open to discussion.
Step 5
Research information regarding weight loss to become well informed as leader of the support group. Make yourself knowledge in the area of nutrition so you can help others. You don't need a medical degree to be well versed in the subject so do not be afraid to share what you learn and know.
Step 6
Open your meetings up to suggestions from group members. Though you need to have a structure set in place for each meeting regarding subject matter and goals, it is important to let members have their say and be able to make the support group their own.
Tips and Warnings
- Invite weight loss experts into your meetings to give guest lectures. Share healthy recipes in your meetings and invite members to do the same. Bring in samples of your best efforts. Incorporate a short walk or stretching and exercises into your meetings for those who want to participate. You may want to ask interested members to meet 15 minutes early for the mini-workout.
- If you have weigh-ins make sure you use the same scale every time and that it is calibrated.
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