About Fat Camp

A fat camp is the term used for a private resort where people go to lose weight. Fat camps can be for overweight children or adults. Generally speaking, these resorts shy away from using the phrase "fat camp" because of the negative connotations associated with the word "fat." They are typically referred to as weight-loss camps, spas and resorts. Fat camps can be quite costly, ranging from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. There are short-term and long-term fat camps. Before signing up for a fat camp, check with your doctor to make sure the diet and exercise plan you will follow is safe.

History

According to FatCampsInfo.com, the first fat camp was established in 1860 near Washington, D.C. Fat camps gained popularity between 1880 and 1910. These early weight-loss camps emphasized low-calorie diets and rapid weight loss. Children's fat camps blossomed In the 1960s and 1970s and also advertised quick weight loss for clients. At the end of the 1970s, however, many of these fat camps went out of business because of the absence of long-term benefits and a culture that began to emphasize health over appearance.

Benefits

Today, there is a great deal of emphasis on being healthy and fit, rather than thin. Camp Shane in upstate New York has its diet supervised by a pediatrician. Camp La Jolla in southern California is a weight-loss camp that includes a two-year follow-up program. Wellspring Camps has a variety of locations, and has therapists on staff to help clients with behavioral issues that lead to overeating.

Types

There are four types of fat camps--for children, for women only, for adults and for families.

Costs

The costs of a fat camp can be a major obstacle to people wishing to attend. For example, Camp Shane charges about $1,000 a week per person. Check with your health insurance company to see if it will cover any of the costs.

Considerations

Always check with your doctor before starting any weight-loss program. Also be aware that there are no outside agencies that can verify the claims of any fat camp. Fat camps that promise rapid weight loss should be avoided--weight loss should be achieved gradually for the best long-term effects.