Wondering What Happens At Weight Watchers?

Around one million members of Weight Watchers are weighed at 40,000 weekly club meetings globally.

10:03 06 May 2015

Jean Nidetch, the founder of Weight Watchers, introduced a points-based scheme designed to encouraged members of the club to keep weekly scores, noting down calorie intake while making sure that they do not exceed their specified limit. These members have spoken about stepping on the scales and realising they’ve lost a few pounds.

 

The emphasis of the program is doing it and achieving goals together as a group. About 10,000 leaders of the club in almost 40,000 clubs globally run the groups, providing a “fun and informative” talk each time. Their task is to encourage members to stick to a plan, ensuring a reduced weight is sustainable and check food labels. 

 

The company said: "It takes into account how your body processes food and nudges you towards healthier, more satisfying choices. So, when you follow Weight Watchers do not think you will eat less - you will however eat better than ever before. You may find yourself surprised at all the wonderful foods you can enjoy every day."

 

However, not all members are happy about the scheme. Sarah (not her real name), a former Weight Watcher Sarah, quit the programme because she found some of its aspects “unsettling.” 

 

She said: "It's an unsettling feeling knowing others queuing behind you are watching and judging while you remove every last piece of jewellery and as much clothing as is humanly possible and wonder whether not washing your hair that morning is weighing you down and cursing wearing jeans rather than a light summer dress. I even shaved my legs especially.

 

"I didn't stick with the Weight Watchers programme but can see why it works for others as a motivational force."