Mindset can make or break a weight loss program.  That’s why the most successful weight loss camps make the self-esteem of their campers a priority, as is evidenced by watching any given episode of the popular MTV series “Fat Camp.” But making overweight kids feel good about themselves can be a challenge, as many are stuck in a cycle of low self worth because of poor treatment by peers and unrealistic media images. Here are some popular motivational techniques we use that you can apply to your own life.

1. Track Your Progress

We track the weight of all of its campers, usually doing a weigh-in on a weekly basis.  This gives kids a chance to see how much progress they have made week by week.  Seeing that it is possible to consistently lose weight while having fun and eating good food encourages campers to carry those habits outside of the camp.  Many campers choose to a keep a journal to record their progress and feelings about camp and fitness, so that they can look back on how far they have come once the camp session ends. You can try this at home.

2. Have Fun!

Summer camp is supposed to be about fun, and great weight loss camps always make sure that campers are always having a blast. With activities as diverse as kayaking, drama, swimming, billiards, horseback riding, and more, any kid with any interest can find a fun way to get physical.  The fun extends to the food selection as well. Successful weight loss camps always offer the kinds of foods that kids love, like pita pizza, cereal, and tater tots, while still keeping everything low calorie by making smart decisions about the food is prepared and selected. The best camps often teach these healthy food preparation and selection techniques so they can use them at home.

3. Get Support

Counselors aren’t the only ones encouraging campers to make smart choices about the foods they eat and the activities they engage in. They are taught and encouraged to support each other. This peer dynamic is often dramatically different than what many campers are used to, such as the school setting where students can sometimes cruel and mocking. This support system can make kids much more excited about losing weight. Every lost pound isn't just a step towards a healthier life, it's a victory that campers can happily report to their new friends. Making friends at camp, seeking out support in your local community, and finding new friends with similar goals will help you keep on track with your weight loss goals.
   
4. Set & Keep Goals

Counselors always emphasize the wonderful benefits of a healthy lifestyle, such as more energy, a better self-image, and greater lifelong health. Campers can then choose which goal they value the most, and always keep this mind as they slim down. These goals are something campers can take with them outside of the camp. Once they are again tempted by sugary sodas and french fries, they can strengthen their willpower by remembering and keeping the health goals they acquired. Setting short and long term goals will help keep you motivated.

5. Get Educated

When you learn what you are actually putting in your body when you eat greasy food and the consequences of an unhealthy lifestyle, it is tremendously motivating to make the right decisions. Kids and young adults learn nutrition, healthy food choices, and the biological benefits of exercising. Understanding the difference between healthy and unhealthy decisions and the impacts of these decisions help overweight kids stay motivated to lose weight.