Does Anyone Have Experience with Weight Watchers?

Updated on April 22, 2008
D.C. asks from Richardson, TX
46 answers

I'd like to know how you feel about WW. Is it a good plan for the money? Is the online membership clear and easy to follow?

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So What Happened?

WOW!! What a terrific response!!!! Thank all 46 of you for your well thought out responses. What a great group! Thank you Paige M!

OK, here we go---- I know WW has a great reputation. That is the reason I joined. However in just 3 days I became so frustrated I could scream.

WW advertised on TV to join on line for a 3 month membership and get $5 off. So that was the boost I needed. I pulled it up, filled out the forms but did'nt get my $5 nor did I see any thing about it. So I figured I would get it at the end.

Next I started following instructions, did the tutorial etc. I spent most of 3 days and my daughter also tried to see what I was missing. I never figured out where to start. Something said to plan your meals for the week before you go to the store. Sounds good to me but where do I find a Points schedule to plan my meals by?

I asked on WW bulletin board and was told to look at the menus to "the left of the screen". ANother said there were helpful materials and books available on line or at a meeting--but these aren't free and I had already paid and so far had 2 recipes and the point values in one of them. It could take forever at that rate.

Finally--when neither my daughter nor I could find what we needed to get started--I cancelled.

Somewhere on all the paper work it said if you cancelled within 3 Business days, you got ALL your money back. I signed up on the 16th --cancelled on Sat.the 19th. Not 3 full business days. I paid $65---didn't get my $5 rebate----didn't get my money back when I cancelled.

I'm on a very tight budget and really thought long and hard before signing up.. So I just wanted to cry!! But I can't spend my life in front of the computer trying to figure it out. I bought a calorie book yesterday and am doing great.

I don't believe anyone specificaly addressed the last sentence in my request-- "Is the online membership clear and easy to follow?" Anyone else have trouble with it?

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J.G.

answers from Dallas on

I went on WW last Feb until about August and since then have just gone on my own and have kept the weight off. I went from 185 to 155. I was very satisfied with the online version. I would just write down what I would eat through out the day and then when I got home input it in and it would tell me how I did. It showed me progress reports and food recipes too. Also met some great folks from the forums and got some cool crock pot recipes for WW. I would recommend anyone to take it!

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M.H.

answers from Dallas on

It is a great program ! the easiest one I've ever did.I have many health problems.I joined in January an have lost sixteen pounds.It comes off slower now than when I was much younger but it comes off.I also joined the water Aquitics class in G.P. It is so easy to stay on.But I go to meetings that is where I get the support I need that and has helped me the most.Do what works for you.It is a life style not a diet.
M. H.

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L.T.

answers from Dallas on

WW is awesome. I had tried every diet in the world almost :) In 2001, I quit smoking and joined WW on the same day. I lost 40 lbs. I kept it off until I had my son in 2005. I was diagnosed with MS in 2006. I went back to the meetings and am back at my Lifetime weight. I have tried the online, but find that I do better when i go to the meetings which are like cheap therapy (you leave so uplifted).

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D.R.

answers from Wichita Falls on

WW is a copy cat of the system designed by Dr. Roy Vartabedian, called the Nutripoints Concept.
Dr. Roy Vartabedian specializes in Chronic Disease Prevention and has for over 25 years.

WW doesn't use as many of the point system checkpoints so it is slightly inferior. WW left off two key points to avoid copyright infringement leaving their system lacking nutritionally and energetically and therefore WW takes longer due to not utilizing these key indicators.

The Nutripoints system is easy to follow and the book is very concise.

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A.A.

answers from Dallas on

I've lost over 55 lbs on Weight Watchers. I have Mutiple Sclerosis and had to be very careful about the regimen I chose to lose weight. I has truly been the ONLY thing that worked for me. I highly recommend it and our meeting is very diverse, which makes anyone feel welcome!

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Y.D.

answers from Dallas on

I have been on WW for 12 weeks, and so far I have lost 18 pounds. It is coming off slowly, but I feel that is the best way to keep it off. I think it is the best program out there and well worth the money. The way I thought about it was, if I wasnt spending $40 a month on WW I would be spending it on fast food. So, we cut out eating out twice a month and it is paid for. The online program (e-tools) are sooo helpful while you are tracking your points and for recipes. I definitely reccomend it if you are serious about losing weight.

1 mom found this helpful

D.D.

answers from Dallas on

My husband and I recently joined WW and are going on our thrid week. So far it has been an easy program to follow, even for my husband who loves sweets. WW is not the same was it used to be. It is really all about learning to control the food and not letting the food control you.
I am an emotional eater and so I am learning to recognize my "triggers" and how to deal with them on top of learning protion controll. There are NO off limit foods with this program. Right now we are doing the "flex plan" which works off points. There is also another program called "the Core Plan", this works off recognizing your body's hunger and full signals(I am not ready for that at this stage).

As I stated, I am going into my third week so far I have lost almost 5 lbs. It would have probably been more had I been adding some exercise to my program as well.

My husband and I did the LA Weightloss program two yrs ago and were doing well. He lost 60 lbs and I had lost 80. However it was very expensive, and required us to eat their protien bars. After they closed their doors, my husband and i didn't have the protein bars anymore. He and I both gained back about 40 of the pounds we had lost.

So when I compare WW to the other programs out there, it is very reasonable in price and proceedure.
1)You pay as you go.
2)Counselors are lifetime members who have lost the weight with Weight Watchers.
3)You eat REAL food. I do not have to deny myself any foods because they are not on my diet.
4)This is a program that you really can stay on for a lifetime and not feel like you are on a "diet".

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S.C.

answers from Dallas on

Oh my favorite topic! I am a lifetime member who has now been maintaining for 1-1/2 years. I lost 118 pounds on Weight Watchers. I did not do the online program but I have heard good things about it. I would encourage you to check into it!

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C.S.

answers from Dallas on

WW is still the #1 weight loss program due to the fellowship along the way.
I tried Nutrisystem and that was awesome for me and my friends have lost weight. Food delivered to the door except for 2 servings of veges, fruit and all the lettuce you can eat, and milk. Lost craving for sweets right away and was never hungry. Awesome. I lost 17 lbs but friend lost 80 and niece lost 75. They also have online fellowship. No learning how to use - you just start eating. The food tasted great too.

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A.K.

answers from Dallas on

I love WW! I have done the meetings in the past and now I am doing it online and losing! I have lost a total of 20lbs and I feel great. Doing it online is okay for me but if you are new to the program I suggest you try the meetings and just buy a monthly pass which will allow you to use the online features and go to the meetings and really ask all your questions with a group leader (who themselves have lost on weight watchers) and other members. The meetings are encouraging and you will find lot's of support. Give it a try.

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J.M.

answers from Lubbock on

I have had good experiences with WW. I think going to meetings is most helpful because you have the support of the leadership and the other members. The internet is okay, but it is easier to cheat. On the other hand, if you have difficulty getting out then the internet could be your answer.

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J.R.

answers from Dallas on

I joined last february and lost about 50 pounds. I went to the meetings for the first 3 months then did it on my own. I still follow it to maintain. I love it!! It teaches you to make better choices without eliminating all the foods you love

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L.C.

answers from Dallas on

D. C
WW is a good program if you are committed to counting points. It does work. Myself along with several others from work have tried it and successfully lost weight. Be realistic with your weight loss and maint. program. I've also tried E-Diets online, and lost 20 lbs.
L. C

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A.M.

answers from Dallas on

Yes, weight watchers is a great plan and physicians have always recommended it. It is easy to follow and the price is right. You can do an automatic payment each month that makes it the most affordable and then use the computer on line plus go to meetings. I thought the core plan was the easiest to use and could lose weight easier. Both plans are exceptionally good. The biggest secret is to get your mind to commit and drink your water. Good luck. A.

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T.W.

answers from Dallas on

I have been doing WW since this first of the year and I LOVE it!!! I have lost 20 pounds and I cannot tell you how many people tell me every week - Wow! You've lost weight. You look good! It's easy because you don't really have to deprive yourself of anything! You just make smarter / healthier choices of the foods you eat (low-fat or non-fat vs. full-fat) and eat smaller portions (you know the amount we're suppose to eat vs. 3 servings at a setting like I use to). They give you recipes and teach you how to adapt your own family favorite recipes to help you succeed. Good Luck!

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J.B.

answers from Dallas on

I understand it is a great program; however I have a program that is 100% guaranteed.

My son relesed 63 lbs.

Call J. ###-###-#### www.drspeaksout.com

Good luck and God Bless!

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C.W.

answers from Dallas on

I love weight watchers and it is more of a lifestyle than a diet. You feel great after you adjust to appropriate portions. I would suggest going to the meetings and utilizing the website. The meetings are the only thing that helps me stay on track...and find a friend or family member to go with you if you can.

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C.

answers from Dallas on

I, too, LOVE WW. This is my fourth week and I have lost 13.8 pounds. It is more of a lifestyle than a diet but, it works. The first week is the hardest - just trying to learn everything and follow the program. But, now it is second nature. I highly recommend attending the meetings but I do use their online site a lot and think the monthly pass makes the most sense. GOOD LUCK!

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J.A.

answers from Dallas on

I have done weight watchers for 6 years (I'm a Lifetime Member). It works and is an easy program to follow. I have not done the on-line program, but I weigh in once a month and attend the lecture when I can. It's just good to stay accountable even after you have lost the weight. If you will e-mail me I will send you my WW recipe folder that I have collected over the years.
____@____.com (Please put WW Recipe on the Re: line so I won't delete it)
Good Luck and give it a shot.
J.

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A.G.

answers from Dallas on

I have had wonderful experiences with WW. I learned so much and UNDERSTAND what to do-- DOING them is something else, which is why I have recently rejoined them. I would advise going to the meetings if possible. I personally find that better-- you have the chance to ask questions, learn new information, have accountability and comraderie, and they also have a little "store" where you can buy products not available anywhere else. I love the smoothies for breakfast. Good luck to you!
A.

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K.J.

answers from Dallas on

I did WWonline and it was great! So easy to stick to and actually fun to find ways to save points up for a weekend splurge. I lost 14 lbs in 3 months. Then I stopped because we were traveling etc. and haven't lost a pound since!

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J.C.

answers from Dallas on

I did weight watchers and LOVED it. I did the online program. I lost the weight I wanted and ate the foods I wanted! I am pregnant now, so I am not doing it anymore. But if I needed to do it again, I would in a heartbeat! The only thing I would do different is take vitamins(which I should be doing anyway).

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C.J.

answers from Dallas on

I had great success with WW. The tools are really helpful. It is just like any other plan - you have to commit fully. Good Luck!

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T.C.

answers from Dallas on

WW is in my opinion is a wonderful program. It is by far one of the healthiest programs out there. I found that going to the meetings was more beneficial for me and felt paying the money helped me to stay accountable for my actions. Besides, being around others with the same goals was beneficial as well. It helps for you to see that others are having the same issues ect. It also helps you to hear what works for others and what doesn't. It is great feed back in live action vs. computer. If I did it from home I wouldn't have the same will power.

I lost 75 pounds on the program at one time. Sadly I have gained much of it back. I haven't kept it off like I should have, but I do still have some of the healthy habits instilled in my mind and I plan on starting back soon. I believe in the program that much.

Hope this helps you. Goodluck! :-)

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J.G.

answers from Dallas on

Hi D.-

I love Weight Watchers. I think it is the most practical and realistic approach to weight loss. I do the on line monthly pass so that I have the on line tools but really encourage you to go to the meetings. You get a lot of support and ideas from them. I don't recommend WW for those people that want instant and won't follow the program, in that case it will be a waste of time and money. You asked if it is a good plan for the money, and all I can answer is that if you value your long term health I think it is, but only you can decide.

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C.M.

answers from Dallas on

Yes, I use the online tools and have lost over 30 lbs. The online tools are easy to follow. If you have any other questions let me know. (I'm a grandmother too)

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M.B.

answers from Dallas on

D., WW is the BEST!! I lost over 35lbs in 6 months with them and still keeping it off. They truly care about you and your health. I had never even dieted before (I gained weight with each of my pregnancies). WW teaches you a lifestyle not a diet. You eat normal everyday food, even fast food restaurants, that you would cook for your family and you learn portion size. I highly suggest you to try it. When loosing weight you need accountability and encouragement and you will get both at the meetings!

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N.C.

answers from Dallas on

D., I was on weight wathcers for a little over a year and a half and I lost a total of 60 pounds. This program really works, but you have to be really dedicated, don't stop once you start, you will find it is a new way of life. WW tryluy changed my life!!! I am not on it any more b/c I am pregnant but I plan on hitting it had after the baby. GOOG LUCK
-N.

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J.N.

answers from Lubbock on

Dear Diane:

I have been on WW for three weeks. I am thrilled that I have lost 8 lbs. For me, WW has been great because I am on the go and it is not unusual for me to eat almost every meal out. I need a really flexible plan. I am re-learning how to eat in a healthy manner. The plan is clear and easy to follow, however, perhaps because of a problem with my computer (I haven't heard of anyone else with the problem) when I am on the WW sight, my comp. often shuts down - frustrating!

I am not sure about the value except to say that most people I know that have been very successful after many failures have used WW. It involves education and new habits. I do think that the group support is helpful- our group is also very inclusive.
Good Luck.

Jen

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K.T.

answers from Dallas on

Weight Watchers is an easy program to follow. If you have never done the program before then I recommend weighing in at the meetings. It holds you more accountable than if you just weigh in at home. I've doen both the meetings and the online programs and I lost much more weight going to the meetings. I also recommend prepaying for like 3 or 6 months. It keeps you sticking ot the program because they already have your money. Works as a motivater. Good luck!

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M.D.

answers from Dallas on

I bought my point scale online/Ebay. I never spent the time or money to go to any meeting. I bought a cookbook online also. Weight Wathchers is the ONLY program that has EVER worked for me, and many others I know.
It is a program that you control and don't feel deprived on.
Best of luck to you!

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T.M.

answers from Dallas on

I am a personal trainer, and a fitness instructor. Weight Watchers is one of the only "ways to eat" that people seem to stick to, get results, and learn portion control. I highly recommend it. Stay with it! Your family deserves the best of you!

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M.C.

answers from Dallas on

Hi D.,

I LOVE it. It is affordable and lets you eat real food rather than prepackaged meals that don't teach you anything about lifestyle changes.

The key is, in my opinion, going to the meetings. I don't know what it is but for me, the program works so much better when you participate in it fully.

Good luck!

M.

P.S. BTW, on any weight loss regimen, it is usually recommended that you supplement your diet to make sure you are still getting a full array of nutrients in spite of the decrease to your food intake. I market a product that puts whole food (fruits and veggies) with all the nutrients intact into capsules for adults and gummy treats for kids. Let me know if you'd like some info on it. I offer a rebate for Mamasource members. You can check out my coupon here on Mamasource and my website here: www.GoodHealthMadeSimple.com

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C.R.

answers from Amarillo on

I have used Weight Watchers and it is absolutely amazing!!!!! If you can afford it (as little as 9$ a week and I believe seniors get a discount as well) then I would definitely recommend going to meetings and utilizing all the tools that they have. The online portion I found to be great, but I liked the personal face to face meetings better. DEFINITELY write what you eat down. That was the key for me. And I liked the points counting vs the other option. I can't remember what it was called. Core foods I think. I would be MORE than happy to help in any way that I can. You lose weight easily and quickly and are still able to eat everything that you love! Good luck!!!

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B.H.

answers from Dallas on

I think WW is totally worth the money if you are willing to work the plan the right way. WW is not a diet, it is a way of life.
I love WW online but didn't have the best results. I was very loyal to the points plan and worked out kind of a lot. I was pretty dedicated but just had better luck when I was with a group. However, the major plus side to WW online is the access to all the recipes. I loved that!!! I had way better results when I did "WW at work". I really gained a lot of support with the instructor and co-workers. Both times I was very motivated with a vacation coming up. With WW at work, I did the core plan. I have Crohn's disease and this way of life, was also very helpful for my Crohn's. I never felt healthier and happier in my life. And - surprise, surprise, I ended up getting pregnant! :o)

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S.W.

answers from Dallas on

It seems like I always respond to the WW questions, but I think it's a great plan. I'm a life time member, back at my goal weight, and this is the only plan I've had success with. I love the weekly meeting, the information and support you get is great. The leaders and receptionist have all been in the place you are now, they understand and want to help you lose.
I also love the website. There are all sorts of reciepts and sucess stories to keep you motivated.
Give it a try. I think you'll like the results.
S.

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G.C.

answers from Dallas on

It is a bit time consuming because of all the "points" you need to calculate but overall I have had good luck with it. Lost 5 pounds teh first two weeks

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T.K.

answers from Dallas on

Definitely do Weight Watchers. It is inexpensive (compared to all the others), easy to follow, and GREAT support!!!

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R.S.

answers from Dallas on

I LOVE weight watchers!! Last year I lost 23 pounds in 4 months just by following the plan. Then, I got pregnant so I am now starting all over again. I have been going for 5 weeks and have lost 8 pounds! I have never done the online ww. I do better if I go to the meetings and weigh. It is very motivational and well worth the money. You can do a monthly pass for $39.99 per month and it comes out much cheaper that way.

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T.J.

answers from Dallas on

D.,
I don't have any experience with WW. I did an online weight loss program called sparkpeople. By using, WWW.Sparkpeople.com I went from 152 to 115 in 3 1/2 months. It is a great and FREE website. It gives you meal plans, exerices and support all for FREE.

Anything you have to pay for is not worth it! Losing weight should come natural, eat right, walking, low/moderate exerices. Think about this, most ppl want to lose weight but to know where to start... Try this website before you spend your $$ on anything.

I haven't been on there is a while, but I'm going to return for what I call tune-ups. My username is Goldneyes, look me up. I'm a great supporter. I hope you find something that works for you. If you don't put forth the effort than it won't work for you! Take care.

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P.B.

answers from Lubbock on

Weight Watchers is a great program. I joined and lost 75 lbs it is easy to follow and the meeting keep you motivated. I have never used the online program but have friends that do and they really like it.

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B.M.

answers from Abilene on

WW is a great program. Lots of support. The online program is great, but I would recommend going to weekly meetings also. Everyone there is just like you, they want to loose weight or are trying to maintain their loss. The support you get from the meetings is personal. No one judges because they are all in the same situation. I have a friend that said one time - Being fat is hard, Losing weight is hard, Maintaining is hard; Choose your hard! I just love that and WW makes it a bit easier. Good luck to you

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A.V.

answers from Dallas on

D.,
I started WW online on March 25th. I lost 10 pounds today, just shy of 4 weeks on the program. I am telling you it works! I love the online tool because there is so much information - recipes, tips, easy access to points values, etc.

Good Luck!

A.

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C.G.

answers from Dallas on

D., I'm a single mother, 30, and I've been doing WW for a year now. I've lost over 20 lbs in that time. I like WW online (I don't go to meetings, no time as a single mom) because I can easily track my points, see that I'm meeting my healthy goals etc. It's easy and there are even online workout videos that you can do, even with physical limitations. I can put together healthier recipies and see how many points they are so that my son eats healthier as well. The best part is, I still get to have the foods that most people think you can't have on a diet, because WW isn't a diet, it's a change in eating style. So if every now and again I want a hamburger, I just work it into my points.
hope that helps
C.

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C.B.

answers from Dallas on

I started 2 weeks ago and love it. I have lost 6 pounds so far. It really teaches you portion control. You can still eat out too, you just have to plan your meals. If you know you are going out to eat, eat lighter during the day. Certain things like carrots and green beans are free so you can fill up without starving. Last week I went out to eat and had fajitas, the next day I ate pizza and still lost 4 pounds. You just have to keep a diary and write down everything that goes in you mouth. I am doing it with my mom and online. My mom has all the books for dining out and restaurant points and we hold each other accountable. I think if I weren't doing it with her I would need to go to the meetings to keep myself on track, but everyone is different. Good luck!

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S.D.

answers from Dallas on

Hi D.,
I love W.W. I have went back on it in January and have lost 23 pounds. I like it because it does not restrict any food. I encourage you to join to learn the program. It will seem overwelming at first, but once you learn it, it is a breeze. I dont know about the online version, and I am not currently a member of WW, but am following the plan I learned when I was a member. Also, go online to dwlz.com and it is a wealth of info! Good luck,
S.

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