Weight loss programs come in all shapes and sizes. Online commercial programs, personal training, boot camps, videos and weight loss books are all viable choices that will lead to sustainable weight loss based on the individual. Choosing the weight loss program for your personality type, budget and time constraints is the fundamental factor that leads to weight loss success or demise.
How to Compare Weight Loss Programs
Step 1
Learn from the statistics. A 2005 analysis of the National Weight Control Registry, a self-selected population of over 4000 individuals that successfully lost at least 30 lbs. and kept it off for at least a year, reveals that weight loss can be achieved with a variety of methods. Some of the most popular methods include commercial weight lost programs, hiring a nutritionist/physician and self-guided methods. In almost all cases, a combination of physical activity and diet is employed to obtain and maintain weight loss goals.
Step 2
Evaluate the feasibility. Busy work schedules can make an appealing weight loss program unreasonable. Identify the amount of time that must be dedicated to the fitness program (i.e. exercise time, weight loss meetings/consultations, strength training time).
Step 3
Recognize the monetary investment. Hiring personal trainers, nutritionists and investing in commercial programs have varying price points that are charged on a monthly or per session basis. A weight loss program can become a short- or long-term investment based on the time it takes to reach your goal and whether you need assistance in the maintenance of your fitness program. Take a close look at your budgetary constraints to determine the best option.
Step 4
Examine the depth of the program. Successful weight loss requires physical activity and adjustments in the diet to create a caloric deficit in the body. The best programs will include a combination of dietary guidance, progressive physical activity and client education.
Step 5
Consider the exit strategy. After weight loss is achieved the next goal is maintenance. If your budget will not allow a long-term investment in the weight loss program, a strategy must be in place to provide you with the knowledge necessary to maintain the weight loss achieved.
Step 6
Take advantage of sample sessions. Consistent participation in a weight loss program will lead to results. Weight loss programs that are enjoyable lead to greater compliance. Sample sessions give you the opportunity to determine if the weight loss program, personal trainer and physician/nutritionist are the best fit for you.
Step 7
Reflect on past experience. If weight loss has been a struggle in the past, make a list of the obstacles that stood in your way (i.e. lack of support, limited knowledge, bad eating habits, inconsistency). Select weight loss programs that address your areas of weakness.
References
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition; A Descriptive Study of Individuals Successful at Long-Term Maintenance of Substantial Weight Loss; M. Klem et al; Issue 66; 1997
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition; Long-Term Weight Loss Maintenance; R. Wing, S. Phelan; Issue 82; 2005
- Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance; What's in It for Me? An Intervention to Increase Physical Activity Among Adolescents in Physical Education; M. Chase et. al.; Vol. 78, 2007
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