FAQs
How is the Vtrim Weight Management Program different from Weight Watchers or other diet programs?
What do you mean by research-based?
How do I know I will lose weight on the Vtrim Weight Management Program?
Will I have a weight loss goal?
Do I have to attend every class?
What happens in a Vtrim class?
How is the online class different from the classes that meet on campus?
What type of support will I get in Vtrim?
How do I know if Vtrim is right for me?
What is the best time to start Vtrim?
Will I have to count calories or anything else?
Is there a printed diet I have to follow?
Does Insurance cover the cost of Vtrim?
What happens when the class ends?
Can I take Vtrim more than once?
What percent of people who join Vtrim stick with it for the six months?
How is the Vtrim Weight Management Program different from Weight Watchers or other diet programs?
Vtrim was researched and developed at the Behavioral Weight Management Program at the University of Vermont for seventeen years. The results of the research studies have been published in peer reviewed journals. Click here to read the abstracts. As a research-based weight management program, Vtrim utilizes the gold standard in weight loss methods. The strategies and techniques used in the Vtrim program have been proven through research to be the most effective for successful weight loss. The program is constantly informed and guided by sound research principles. Vtrim evolves as new research findings emerge.
The program, its philosophies and strategies have been shown to work, both through in-person classes AND online classes. Vtrim classes are led by professional Certified Vtrim Facilitators so you have the highest standards in the guidance you receive each and every week.
Vtrim requires that you make a financial commitment up front for the 24-week program, which contributes in part to you achieving your weight loss goal. Vtrim utilizes a closed-group format, meaning that you will meet with the same 20 participants and the same facilitator throughout the program
What do you mean by research-based?
Research-based means that everything we ask you to do during the program has a research basis. The systematic approach we employ and the activities we ask you to complete are informed by a large body of obesity research conducted at the University of Vermont and at universities all over the country. Vtrim does not use gimmicks or promote a breakthrough product to lose weight. It isn't a "new" breakthrough in dieting. Rather, we package what you need to do for weight management in such a way that you can succeed. The systematic approach we use is a result of many research studies that have proven these techniques to be the most effective way to lose weight. Additionally, this approach provides the best possibility of keeping it off.
How do I know I will lose weight during the Vtrim Weight Management Program?
Although we offer no guarantees, the research shows that participants who stick with the 24-week program lose an average of 24 pounds.
Will I have a weight loss goal?
No, the Vtrim program does not require you to set a weight loss goal, but your facilitator can help guide you to set some healthy goals for yourself. Each individual is different and has different genetics, body shape and size, resulting in different weight outcomes and realistic goals. An example of a healthy weight loss goal is to aim for a 5-10% reduction in weight. Research shows that just decreasing your body weight by 5-10% can yield significant improvements in blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and lower diabetes risk. A 5-10% reduction in weight is also enough to yield great changes in how you look and feel! So start with a realistic goal, see how you feel, and keep working at your healthier lifestyle habits. Remember, the benefits of eating right and exercise extend well beyond the scale.
Do I have to attend every class?
Attendance at every class is not mandatory. That said, the research shows that the more classes you attend, the better you'll do. Meetings are held weekly for 24 weeks and lots of information and support is shared while you are enrolled and attending class. However, we realize that you'll need to miss a few. That's life. We ask that you make it the exception and not the rule.
What happens at a Vtrim class?
Classes generally run like this: You will weigh in, privately, with your facilitator for in-person classes and you will report your weight online in your journal for online classes. For ten to fifteen minutes you'll discuss last week's lesson and any problems or triumphs. Then, 30 to 40 minutes are spent on the current topic presentation and discussion. (Our facilitators are not there to lecture; we want you to apply the topic to your own life.) We end with a homework assignment. Between classes, you'll track your calories and exercise. Your facilitator will review your journal and make comments that will help you in the following week. Online classes follow the same format but meetings are held in a structured chat format.
How is the online class different from the classes that meet on campus?
The Vtrim Weight Management Program has been standardized so you get the same experience online as during in-person classes. Research has demonstrated comparable results in both venues.
What will I learn in Vtrim?
Vtrim is about more than just cutting calories. It is about changing behaviors for a healthier way of life. Topics are varied and teach you the skills you can use for the long-term, from areas such as setting healthy goals, problem solving, and motivation to how to read labels, shop smart, and make good choices when dining out. Vtrim will help you create a new awareness of how your environment and your choices impact your health and how to create the healthiest environment to foster a healthier you.
What type of support will I get in Vtrim?
Vtrim's closed group format means you will work with the same facilitator and the same 15-20 participants throughout the 24 weeks of the program. This allows you to get to know your group and build supportive relationships. In addition to the weekly 1-hour class, your class website includes discussion boards to facilitate participants staying in contact between classes.
Additionally, your professional Certified group facilitator will provide individual feedback on your goals each week via the website. Facilitators are available via email between classes to offer additional support when needed.
How do I know if Vtrim is right for me?
One of the reasons that so many people have had success with Vtrim is that it is all about you. You will learn how to tailor and personalize the program to assure your personal success in your life which is unique to you. Vtrim is not about gimmicks, fast fixes, or the newest diet trend. It's about learning about yourself and your behaviors. But changing behaviors takes work and effort. If you are ready to commit time to taking care of yourself, Vtrim could be right for you.
What is the best time to start Vtrim?
When you're ready. However, some life changing events are so stressful, that we suggest waiting to enroll until you're in a less challenging place. For example, we discourage starting Vtrim if you are in the middle of a divorce, have lost a job, just relocated or have a similar major life event. You can take our readiness quiz to help assess if now is a good time to start a weight loss program.
Will I have to count calories or anything else?
Calorie goals are prescribed to encourage a 1-2 pound weight loss per week. But each participant will lose weight differently, with individual patterns and pace. Your facilitator will monitor your rate of weight loss and help adjust goals as necessary. The calorie goal formula gives a starting point, but is not set in stone. Typical calorie goals in the Vtrim program range from 1200-2100 calories per day. Additionally, we recommend a fat gram goal to help facilitate weight loss. Research shows that limiting fat intake helps achieve better weight loss because you are more likely to meet your calorie goal on a regular basis.
Is there a printed diet I have to follow?
There are no special diets or points to count. Vtrim is not just about the food. (Although we do help you determine an appropriate calorie level to achieve a one to two pound weight loss per week.) Participants learn to make food choices and exercise choices that fit into their lifestyle and are things they enjoy. We want you to be happy. Food plans are not prescribed for you and the program does not dictate what you must eat. Facilitators can guide and encourage healthier choices but you must learn to make choices for yourself. Past participants will tell you that learning to deal with real-life situations while maintaining weight loss efforts is one of the key elements that makes Vtrim so successful.
What about exercise?
Exercise is an important component of the Vtrim program. Exercise is key for both weight loss AND maintaining weight lost. Establishing a regular exercise routine is a part of the lifestyle change that will help you be most successful. Vtrim uses an exercise program supported by the most current research in weight management. The Vtrim program builds this goal up gradually over the course of the program to give you time to build exercise into your lifestyle.
Do you offer scholarships?
No, we do not offer scholarships.
Does Insurance cover the cost of Vtrim?
We cannot bill your insurance company for your Vtrim tuition. We suggest you check with your plan's administrator directly to find out if you can be reimbursed. People who have Health Savings Account may more easily have their tuition covered with proper physician documentation.
What happens when the class ends?
We offer a maintenance plan that lasts six months. Also, depending on how much weight you want to lose, you might not achieve your target weight in the first six months. Many participants do opt to take the class again so they can keep up their weight loss momentum.
Can I take Vtrim more than once?
Some people who have more weight to lose (the average weight loss during the 24-week program is approximately 24 pounds) take a second round of classes. Although the lessons are the same, we will do our best to place you with a different facilitator so you can get a fresh perspective.
What percent of people who join Vtrim stick with it for the six months?
We see about 10 to 15 percent drop out over the course of the six months.
To find out more see: How does the program work?
©2009 Vtrim® The University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
