Questions To Ask Before Joining A Weight Loss Program

Before deciding to join a weight loss program, gather as much information as possible about the same. Researching a program on relevant parameters will ensure that you suffer the least down the line. This article aims to provide a small and relevant questionnaire, which the professionals working for a weight loss program should be able to answer.

What is the Format of your Program?
1) Does the program offers one-on-one counseling or group classes? This is important to know since some people learn fast through a one-on-one counseling session rather than through group classes. Depending upon your preference for one over the other, you can decide for yourself if this program is your cup of coffee or not.

2) Do you have to follow a specific meal plan or keep food records? Food records are closely registered in a diet based weight loss program. However, other physically intensive programs may also impose such restrictions. Inquire about the same so as to make an informed decision.

3) Is it required to purchase special foods, drugs or supplements? Some programs offer these products as part of the overall package while under other programs, you might have to purchase them separately.

4) In case the program requires special foods, can you make changes based on your likes and dislikes and food allergies (In case you have any)?

5) What about physical activity? Will I be provided with a specific physical activity plan and will there be instructors available to provide exercise instructions?

6) Does the program encourages healthy and positive behavior changes? Does the program makes an active attempt to teach such changes?

7) Does the program provide ways to keep the weight off permanently? Does the program covers other aspects of weight loss such as what to eat at holiday or social gatherings, changes to work schedules, lack of motivation and illness or injury?

What are Staff Qualifications?
1) Whose the supervisor of this program? What are his qualifications (Or other special recognitions received in this field)?

2) Regarding instructors, what type of weight-management training, experience, education and certifications, do they posses?

Risks Associated With The Program:
1) Are there exercises within the program which might be considered dangerous?

2) What about recommended drugs or supplements? Do they pose any health risk and am I required to take them even after the program ends?

3) Are services of a doctor provided within the program?If yes, then does the doctor records the progress of a participant?

4) Is it possible for the program’s doctor to work with your personal doctor in case you’ve a medical condition such as high blood pressure or diabetes?

5) Is it fine to pursue this program along with the medications that I’m currently taking?

6) Is there ongoing input and follow-up from a health care professional to ensure my safety while I participate in the program?

Total Cost of Program:
1) What is the total cost of the program?

2) Is there any additional cost associated with the program such as weekly attendance fee, supplement or special foods fee etc?

3) Is there any fee for a follow up program after you lose weight?

4) Is there an additional fee for medical tests such as Body Mass Index(BMI) measurement etc

Typical Results:
1) Can the program managers provide any publication or other published material which highlights the typical results obtained by an average participant? If not then can you provide the results of last batch which undertook this program?

2) Is there some data available as to how long a participant manages to keep weight off, once the program has ended?