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Step 1
Visit the clinic with no intention of joining. Leave your credit card and checkbook at home so you won't be tempted to sign up on the spot. Clinics employ professional, commissioned salespeople to sell memberships and they know how to find your hot buttons and get you to sign. Instead, look around, take a tour and ask a lot of questions.
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Step 2
Check out consumer websites that post comments about local operations. Sometimes a weight-loss company will post comments on their own sites, but many companies only print the favorable reviews.
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Step 3
Ask for and call former and current members. Engage them with open-ended questions to get their opinion about the clinic and the people who run it, as well as their success with the program.
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Step 4
Look at the different options that each weight loss clinic offers. Decide if you want to buy prepackaged food, cook the food yourself or eat out. Some clinics offer online programs, while others focus on group or counselor meetings. Compare and then pick the weight loss clinic that best fits your lifestyle.
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Step 5
Request a sample membership. Often clubs and clinics offer specials fro a week or two to let you try the service and the products they sell. Read the offer to make sure it does not include any clauses that will hold you responsible if you decline to join.
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Step 6
Look for a program that offers a thorough follow-up regimen for weight maintenance. Any low-calorie program can help you lose weight, but it's keeping it off long term that is most important.
Comments
sbordley said
on 3/4/2009 This is good info but there are alternatives. Save the money and invest in a treadmill desk. You can Google the term treadmill desk and find some nice options. I like the TrekDesk personallly. You will find it at www.trekdesk.com. You can walk all day while you work and regain your health.