Alternatives to Fat Camps
Experts and teens agree - fat camps don't work. Then where should overweight teens and their families turn for help shedding the extra pounds? Finding alternatives to fat camps is relatively easy because fat camps - as most people imagine them - are rare in today's society. A week- or month-long regime of low-calorie dieting and high-intensity exercise has been replaced with more sensible programs that help kids learn how to make long-term lifestyle changes.
Alternative #1 - Weight-Loss or Fit Camp
Weight-loss and fit camps are the new and improved generation of fat camps. Fit camps are where today's overweight kids go to lose weight and adopt a healthier lifestyle. The benefit of choosing a fit camp over a fat camp is that fit camps teach children all about healthy eating, the joy of physical activity, and the benefits of getting and staying in shape. Rather than being made to feel guilty for being overweight, many kids return from fit camps with improved self-esteem and a positive outlook on the future.
Wellspring camps, for example, use a cognitive behavioral approach based on established science. A staff of top nutritionists and fitness experts work with each child to develop a plan that suits him. Young people make new friends and enjoy all of the usual camp activities like sports, art classes, hiking, and swimming, while learning how to make subtle, but important dietary changes, and incorporating physical activity into daily life. Fit camps like Wellspring offer extensive aftercare and family involvement so that weight losses can be maintained long-term.
Alternative #2 - Regular Summer Camp
If a child simply needs something to get him moving, a regular summer camp may be a good alternative. Einstein was right; an object that's in motion stays in motion. Some kids just need help getting started. Once they've been out in nature, running and playing outside, they realize it's much more enjoyable than sitting at a computer or in front of a television, and they stay active when they return home. Of course, most summer camps are simply geared toward fun and entertainment, when many overweight children need a camp that specializes in transforming their relationship with food and exercise. For these kids, fit camps will make a lasting difference.
Alternative #3 - Role Models
Often, the best way for a young person to get and stay fit is by seeing his parents do it first. This one can be hard, because it means parents have to first admit that they're out of shape and making poor lifestyle choices. Kids are watching - even when we don't think they are. If you're snacking on cookies and potato chips, and spending hours in front of the television, your kids will follow your lead. Getting healthy is something the whole family can enjoy doing together! If the entire family needs a little help, there are family fit camps and programs that offer extensive family support and education.
Alternative #4 - Weight-Loss Boarding Schools
There aren't many of them out there, but scattered throughout North America are a handful of weight-loss boarding schools. These are schools are designed for kids who not only need to lose weight, but who have significant emotional issues that have either caused, or resulted from, their weight challenges. The programs run the length of a school year and provide kids with extensive counseling while they're learning how to improve their nutritional and exercise habits.
These are just a handful of the possibilities, intended to show you there are many ways to help your child with her weight issues. There are other alternatives out there, but some should be reserved for only the most extreme cases. Determining what's best for your child will take time and effort. Explore as many alternatives as you can in order to find the one that's right for your child and your family.
