Obesity is a serious issue in the United States. Cdc.gov reports that more than one third of American adults were obese in 2007-2008, and the numbers are expanding with our waistlines. Self-help and fad diet books flood book stores, causing more concern but little health-behavior change. However, there are several weight-loss programs that have been successful for obese adults.
Support-Based Programs
Weight loss is best achieved in community and with support, according to AnnCollins.com. Programs like Jenny Craig and Weight Watchers are successful in part due to their supportive community, in which the clients do not feel alone. Individual or group counseling is effective, as it provides accountability and behavior modification tips for clients. Most people do better when they have a structured plan to follow or can participate with a group of people. Group exercise classes such as step aerobics, spinning, or kickboxing also are effective for this same reason: Clients develop camaraderie with the other participants, they become invested, and they are more likely to show up for class on a regular basis.
Pre and Post Body Assessments
Weight loss programs that do not track changes in body composition are rarely effective. Obese clients must know where they are starting, in terms of body composition and overall health, so they can know where they want to “end up.” Pre-assessments are taken by a personal trainer or wellness technician and generally consist of checking blood pressure, weight, body mass index, and body fat percentage. The client will often be motivated by the upcoming regular or mid-program assessment, and work to see changes on the scale or in body fat percentage. Actual numbers help to increase program adherence as they provide something tangible with which to track changes.
Slow and Steady Programs
For obese clients to get down to (and maintain) a healthy weight, it is essential that they change their diets and exercise. This process will take time–up to years, depending on the client. Any weight loss program that claims rapid weight loss is most likely a sham and oftentimes, a health risk. The weight loss program should be monitored by a doctor and nutritionist and should be slow and steady, requiring adherence from the client. In most cases, the client has taken several years–sometimes decades–to become obese, and it will take time to become healthy. Obesity is approaching tobacco as the top preventable cause of death in the United States, according to DoctorsLounge.com and the CDC. The negative health effects of obesity can be reversed with discipline and patience from the client.
About this Author
Ashley Armstrong has her M.S.Ed. in health and human performance: health education. She is a certified personal trainer, indoor cycling instructor, and AFAA aerobics and kickboxing instructor. She and her husband love being active, outdoor sports, and cooking delicious, healthy meals. Armstrong believes life is a gift that is meant to be lived to the “fullest,” and living healthy is a great start.
