If you’re interested in keeping your weight loss resolution for 2014 but are looking for a low cost alternative that provides weekly support, Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) may be what you need.
TOPS of Dexter has been in existence since 2001. The group of women and men meets every Wednesday at the Dexter Senior Center at 7720 Dexter-Ann Arbor Road. Your first meeting is free. Weigh-in is from 6 to 6:55 pm and the meeting is from 7 to 8 pm.
The yearly membership fee, which includes a subscription to TOPS News, is $28/year and dues is only $1.00/week.
At meetings, members can expect healthy lifestyle guidance, member-run health programs, special guest presentations, motivational challenges, and weekly support and recognition.
Member Gladys Dettling says, “I've been a TOPS member 11 years. It’s an excellent program and has taught me to eat healthy and lose weight.” Through TOPS, Gladys has met her goal weight and maintains it with her KOPS status (Keep Off Pounds Sensibly).
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According to www.tops.org, the nonprofit weight-loss support organization is associated with clinically significant weight loss among participants who remain in the program for at least one year.
Researchers from the University of Colorado Denver noted, “TOPS may have a lower dropout rate than other weight loss programs because of the substantial difference in cost between TOPS and commercial weight-loss programs, like Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig.” Another reason for lower dropout rates, speculated the researchers, “could be due to the camaraderie, support, and recognition that develop from regular chapter meetings because participants may hold offices in the chapter.”
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“We are pleased that the findings of this study further confirm that members of TOPS can experience measurable and lasting weight-loss success,” said Barbara Cady, TOPS President.
Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge. To find a local chapter, go to www.tops.org or call (800) 932-8677.
TOPS of Dexter
Meets every Wednesday at the Dexter Senior Center
(with the exception of holidays and inclement weather)
7720 Dexter-Ann Arbor Road
Weigh-in: 6:00-6:55 pm
Meeting: 7:00-8:00 pm
First meeting is free
