A weight loss camp is a term for a type of program where overweight and obese people of all ages go to lose weight. However in common parlance the term "fat camp" is today also often used to (sometimes humorously or sometimes with intended harm) refer to residential programs, usually in rural settings, where adults stay to eat nutritious foods, exercise and lose weight. These adult programs are also known as, weight loss resorts, weight loss retreats, and weight loss holidays.
These programs may be referred to as a fitness and weight loss camps. What sets these apart from other camps is that they typically provide nutrition classes, weekly weigh-ins, and a variety of classes and activities designed for weight loss. Others gradually or immediately go back to overeating. One of the main determining factors appears to be support from other family members and friends.
The goal of the camps is to enhance the health of the campers, raise their self-confidence and self-image, as well as teach them healthy life skills and choices.[1] These camps provide weight-loss results of two to five pounds per week on average.[1] However the more overweight the camper, the more they generally lose in these programs. The effectiveness of these summer camps varies widely and usually depends on the quality of the individual program and biochemistry of the attending campers.
Newer programs not only focus on weight loss, but also on changing behavior through a combination of training on self-regulatory behaviors and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to ensure that weight loss persists long after campers return home.[1] Most experts believe these are key elements of an effective program.[2]
A number of weight loss camps are currently in operation in the United States, Canada, and throughout Europe. These camps vary greatly in terms of the methods used and outcomes (both long-term and short-term) experienced by campers.[3]