Fat Camps

Methods

Fat camps, often marketed as weight loss and management camps, employ rigorous methods like intensive exercise and calorie restriction to achieve short-term weight loss. Michael Hobbes describes these programs as involving up to six hours of exercise daily and diets as low as 1100 calories, even for children as young as seven 1. Despite their popularity, Aubrey Gordon notes that few studies support their effectiveness, with some showing no weight change at all 2.

Even though weight loss camps are a popular intervention, few studies have evaluated their effectiveness.

--- Aubrey Gordon

The camps, which can cost between $2,500 and $10,000, have been around since the early 20th century, yet their long-term success remains dubious 1.

   

Impact

The psychological impact of fat camps is profound, often involving harsh regimes that can lead to negative mental health outcomes. Michael Hobbes and Aubrey Gordon discuss violations at these camps, including inadequate staff training and bullying, which exacerbate the stress on campers 3. The camps' practices, such as enforcing a 1500 calorie diet and searching for contraband food, create a punitive environment that can foster disordered eating habits 4.

The logic of 'tough love' weight loss is just the same as the logic of abuse.

--- Michael Hobbes

These conditions highlight the troubling realities and ethical concerns surrounding the treatment of children in these settings.