Fat Camps No More: The New Generation of Weight Loss Camps

Fat camp is a slang term used for a summer camp program where overweight and obese children and teenagers are sent.  While the fat camp term offends many, it is how many parents and even the children who attend them refer to traditional weight loss camps.  At fat camp, or traditional weight loss camps, activity levels are raised and food is closely monitored and often restricted. 

And campers can lose weight at fat camp.  But not for long.

The problem at these fat camps is that campers do not learn anything that allows them to keep the weight off.  When camp is over, campers return to their former low activity levels and without the food restrictions, they eat like they used to as well.

Months after fat camp ends campers are often heavier than when camp began.

The solution is a fitness and weight loss camp with a real, proven plan based on what science has identified for initial weight loss success and long-term weight control.

Scientifically based camps use what is known about biology and the behaviors that are associated with weight gain, and translates this knowledge into a comprehensive health plan.  Unlike fat camps, scientifically based camps do not just lump everyone into one category and teach just one concept.  Science-based camps offer a comprehensive and integrated approach including a healthy diet, nutrition classes, culinary instruction, weekly weigh-ins, and a variety of activities to expose individuals to exercise they will continue at home.

Most importantly, scientifically based fitness and weight loss camps include cognitive behavioral therapy, which is very practical, action-oriented therapy.  It is the practice of moving one's actual behaviors to match a set of target behaviors.  In this case, those target behaviors are the ones demonstrated by scientific research to be required for long term weight control.  Cognitive behavioral therapy helps in three ways: the first is reinforcing core self-regulatory behaviors; second is improving frustration and stress management; and third is helping individuals work through the issues that are contributing to the excess weight.

Determining if Camp has a Proven Effective Plan

How do you know if the camp is a fat camp or a scientifically based camp?  There are a few things to consider. 

• 1) Ask a lot of questions. Have the camp describe the clinical program. A scientifically based camp will have required cognitive behavioral therapy at least three times a week. Find out how the camp teaches long-term behavioral change.
• 2) Ask if you can see the outcome data. If they cannot provide or do not want to show this data then something may be suspect.
• 3) Find out how the whole family can be involved and is there an after care program to help continue the success back home after camp ends.

For those looking to lose weight, get in shape, improve self esteem and outlook, and maintain these changes, then scientifically based camp is the only choice.