Losing weight is always a challenge, but sadly it is also big business, with many companies standing to gain lots of ‘pounds’ while their clients lose lbs through crash dieting and then inevitably put the weight back on again. Positive weight loss programmes are different in that they aim to help educate clients on making healthier choices and improving health, leading to long term weight loss through habit change, food education and psychology.
Positive weight loss programmes are different to ‘a diet’ and the focus is on helping individuals achieve their weight loss goals in a sustainable and healthy manner through empowerment, education, exercise, healthy habits and support.
These programmes are designed to not only focus on shedding pounds, but also on promoting overall well-being, fostering positive lifestyle changes. By supporting and encouraging a balanced approach that addresses both physical and mental well-being, positive weight loss programmes are more likely to deliver lasting results and have a greater long-term impact on participants’ health.
One of the key aspects of positive weight loss programmes is the emphasis on holistic health.
Research shows that strict dietary restrictions and intense workout regimens work well in the short term but are not sustainable and lead to a high drop-out rate – sometimes even seeing participants gain even more weight when the programme ends, feeling even worse than before.
Positive weight loss programmes on the other hand guide participants towards healthier habits focusing on the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of weight loss – helping change mind, attitudes, food and body image all at the same time.
This approach is multi-faceted, and like all weight plans will include nutritional advice and possibly counselling, but it will also include stress management techniques, mindfulness practices, and behavioural therapy to address the psychological factors that so often influence eating habits, helping participants become more aware of self-sabotaging habits, patterns and attitudes they maybe hadn’t previously been aware of.
By addressing the underlying issues contributing to weight gain, these programmes empower individuals to make sustainable changes and develop a healthier relationship with food and exercise.
Another important part of positive weight loss programmes is to encourage and support participants along the whole weight loss journey through setting realistic and achievable goals along the way. This rewards and encourages individuals, helping them celebrate smaller successes while still pursuing long term goals.
Participants who can achieve smaller goals are more likely to stay motivated and committed to their overall weight loss journey, whereas one long target can quickly lead to frustration if it can’t be achieved in a short timescale.
Dietary and exercise advice – is this plan right for me?
When deciding which plan to invest in, check out the elements to see if it is likely to work for you, they should be happy to answer your questions.
A key element of positive weight loss programme is a balanced approach to nutrition and exercise but this should not include extreme diets or overly strenuous workout routines. Healthy programmes should support and encourage a balanced and sustainable long-term approach to eating and physical activity.
A healthy plan will encourage participants to adopt a diet rich in whole foods, lean protein, fruits, and vegetables, while also being mindful of portion sizes and mindful eating practices, rather than give set foods for set days in tiny portions. Similarly, exercise regimes are designed to be manageable and enjoyable, incorporating a variety of activities to keep individuals engaged and motivated.
What else can I expect from a positive weight loss programme?
A positive weight loss programme will normally offer some form of mental health support, whether in the form of group sessions, support groups or individual counselling.
These provide participants with the encouragement and guidance they need throughout their weight loss journey. By providing a sense of community and a network of support, these programmes help individuals feel less isolated and more empowered to overcome challenges.
The encouragement and understanding from both peers and professionals can have a profound impact on participants’ mental and emotional well-being, contributing to a positive and successful weight loss experience.
What will I gain after the programme ends?
Obviously it is huge to reach your target, but the programme should have equipped you with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about your future nutrition, physical activity, and overall health even when the programme ends, providing you with the skills you need to make long term healthy choices about food and lifestyle. Many programmes will also encourage you to check in from time to time.
In conclusion, positive weight loss programmes are designed to promote sustainable, healthy, and holistic approaches to weight management rather than fast fat loss.
By addressing the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of weight loss, these programmes empower individuals to make positive lifestyle changes that extend beyond just shedding pounds. With an emphasis on realistic goals, supportive environments, education, and balanced approaches to nutrition and exercise, positive weight loss programmes can have a profound impact on participants’ lives, helping them achieve lasting success in their weight loss journey, their happiness and overall well-being.
