You are not alone. The scientific literature reveals only two published studies that showed only modest benefits of weight loss camps when evaluated 1-5 years later. For example, a study reported by Braet and Winckel (Behavior Therapy, 2000) revealed that 82% of the campers were still obese several years after attending a specialized weight loss camp. Their specialized camp (only available to 36 campers over two years who attended a university clinic) included a clinical component (cognitive-behavior therapy) which almost certainly improved their results compared to the typical “diet camp.” Anecdotal evidence suggests well over 90% of campers who attend typical diet camps that do not include a scientifically-based behavioral-change program gain all the weight back and then some within the first year. It makes great business sense for the diet camps, who urge campers to return the following summer. However, it makes no sense for the campers, who experience years of successive failures.

Prior to the establishment of Wellspring Camps, in 2004, no weight loss camp available to the public provided any clinical behavioral change program to empower participants to sustain the weight loss beyond camp.  Furthermore, traditional diet camps confuse campers about diet and nutrition – serving small portions or calorie-dense, high-fat foods alongside more healthful fare.  Do you think your son and daughter is likely to maintain strict portion control when eating pizza and french fries with friends after such a camp?  Wouldn’t a camp that offers only healthful and delicious low-density and low-fat foods help your child learn to eat more effectively?

Weight loss cannot be sustained until the “diet” becomes a permanent part of lifestyle change. And lifestyle change requires intensive training, as well as a clinical program to ensure that the training will translate into new thinking and behavior outside of camp. Research shows that cognitive-behavioral therapy is the most effective way to change critical eating, activity patterns, focusing, and emotional control. The good news: the out-of-pocket cost of such a comprehensive camp program is likely to be lower than traditional diet camps, as your health insurance will probably cover much of the cost of the clinical program (time spent with therapists).

At present, Wellspring Camps and Summer Session at Wellspring Academy of California are the only summer programs that fit the bill.  These are excellent programs if you’re interested in helping your child break the cycle of summer weight loss followed by fall and winter weight gain.