ObesityHelp Support Groups: Weight Loss Support Groups and More

by Cathy Wilson

Is it difficult for you to stay motivated to achieve your fitness goals? Is it challenging to stay consistent with your exercise regimen? Is your workout routine more of a chore than a fun activity you look forward to? If your answer to any of these questions is yes, you are not alone, and you do not have to do it alone. Being an ObesityHelp support group member can help you reach your fitness goals, too. 

Emotional support, motivation and fitness information are just some of the benefits you receive as a member of an ObesityHelp support group. It is fun to get together outside of meetings to socialize with other members. So, why not combine your socializing with a fun outdoor activity, like a 2-mile walk together or a quick visit to the gym? Double the benefit of being in a support group by helping yourself and your fellow members achieve your fitness goals. Working out together not only gives you the motivation you need, but it also provides you with self-confidence and accountability.

We asked OH Support group leaders to tell us what their groups do to promote fitness for group members. Here are a few of their responses.

From time to time we talk about exercise and compare notes on what each of us is doing (or not doing) to encourage others to get moving and applaud those that are physically active. Our group now includes a marathoner, a long-distance cyclist, lots of walkers and gym rats. Yeah!

Kimberlee MacVicar, CC
East Bay Bariatric
San Leandro, CA

Our group promotes fitness and a healthy exercise routine for members by scheduling a monthly physical activity done as a group, in addition to our monthly meeting. We have walked the Jones Beach Boardwalk several times and are planning monthly volleyball games and even yoga and meditation to exercise not only our bodies, but also our minds. A group that exercises together stays together!

Maryellen R. and Karen I.
LIPO—Long Island Post Ops
Sayville, NY

Our group started an exercise class with a local gym a while back. We met once a week and were supposed to practice in between classes. Also, an Exercise Physiologist has attended our meetings twice a year to teach us exercises that are easy to follow, no matter what level of weight loss you have had. We also participated in the Walk from Obesity this past year and the response was great! We plan to walk again this year.

Nancy McLuckie
Eastside Bandsters
St. Clair Shores, MI

We write down fitness goals and work to attain them based on current ability by striving for 60 minutes of physical activity—like walking, laundry, and gardening—each day. In addition to reviewing your goals weekly, keep a daily activity journal. Stay positive—you can do it!

Michael Kay
Atlanta WLS Support
Atlanta, GA

March 2008