TOPS

I have come to realize that while I talk about TOPS a lot on here, I have never really explained what it is.

TOPS stands for Take Off Pounds Sensibly and is a non-profit weight loss support group.  It was founded in 1948 around the kitchen table of Esther S. Manz.  From there is has grown and spread to countless chapters around the world.

Why should I join you might ask?  Well, studies show that people who have support during weight loss have more success than others to try to do it alone.  A recent study has shown that participation in TOPS is just as effective as Weight Watchers.  

Ok you ask...why should I join on over the other?  For me the deciding factors were both location and cost, with cost being the biggie.  Let's face it, Weight Watchers is pricey.  Part of that is they pay for endorsements and heavily advertise, TOPS doesn't.  Currently my yearly membership is $32 with a monthly fee to my branch of $10.

Have I peaked your interest at all yet?  Let me continue some more...TOPS can help you reach your weight loss goals by providing you with the tools, information, support and accountability you need to be successful.

Now say you want to check out a meeting, but don't feel ready to sign up just yet....good, we can help you with that.  The first meeting at TOPS is free, with no pressure to sign up.   Right here, right now, I'm going to be honest and share my personal thought.....JUST SIGN UP!!!  Do it right there that first night!  If you leave with plans to think about it, chances are you may talk yourself out of it or convince yourself you can do it yourself.  Don't tell me you haven't spent more money on other plans....gym memberships, protein shakes, body wraps, etc.  

Ok, so you have talked yourself up and have decided that today is the day you choose to change your life....what should you expect from a meeting?  Meetings typically last for about an hour.  You can expect a private weight in, discussion about member's weeks and what was challenging for successful.  Roll call is taken, meeting business discussed and typically a program is put on.

Does TOPS offer an eating program and do I have to follow it for success?  The quick answers?  Yes it does and no you don't.  Details of the programs can be found here, but you can also use whatever method works best for you.

Ok, so I have gone over the basics for you and if you are still making excuses as to why you can't join, don't let one of them be that the meeting times in your area don't work for you....wanna know why?  Because if you have just 3 other interested people, you can start your own chapter.  A chapter only needs 4 members to start.  Maybe you have some friends at work that have similar goals, here is a chance for all of you to work together.

I know I haven't been the most model TOPS member as of lately, but the truth is, I haven't quit.  I keep going and getting on the scales, attempting to get myself back on track.  I just want to tell you that YOU CAN DO THIS!!!  You do not have to do it alone and support is only a click away.  Make today the day to change your life!