We’re doing a WeightWatchers review for Australia because whilst pretty much everyone knows about WeightWatchers, not everyone understands it. After reading this, you’re going to be in a better position to decide if it is right for you.
WeightWatchers Review Summary
WeightWatchers is a global weight loss and wellness company. It offers a comprehensive program that focuses on healthy eating habits, physical activity, and positive behaviour changes to help people achieve and maintain their desired weight.
The company’s program is based on a point system that assigns values to different foods and drinks based on their nutritional content, calorie count, and portion size. Members are allotted a certain number of points each day, which they can use to create their meals and snacks. The program also offers support and guidance through in-person meetings, online resources, and mobile apps.
In addition to weight loss, WeightWatchers also promotes overall wellness and healthy lifestyle choices. It offers a range of products and services, including food products, exercise equipment, and coaching services.
How WeightWatchers Started
WeightWatchers was founded in 1963 by Jean Nidetch, a homemaker from Brooklyn, New York. Jean struggled with her weight from youth. One day, somebody asked Jean if she was pregnant (she wasn’t). That was the tipping point for her to drop the fad diets and binge eating. Since she found it difficult to stick to a diet on her own, she decided to start a support group with some of her friends, where they could share tips and motivate each other to lose weight.
Massive Success
The group quickly grew in size and popularity, and Nidetch realized that there was a demand for a structured weight loss program that provided support and accountability. She developed a system that assigned points to different foods based on their nutritional value, and she created a weekly meeting format that included group discussions and weigh-ins.
In 1963, Nidetch officially founded WeightWatchers, and the company began offering its program to the public. The program’s emphasis on group support, healthy eating habits, and positive behaviour changes proved to be successful, and WeightWatchers quickly became a household name. Over the years, the program has evolved and adapted to new trends and technologies, but the core principles of support, healthy habits, and behaviour change have remained the same.
What does WeightWatchers offer in Australia?
WeightWatchers Australia offers a range of products and services to help people lose weight and improve their overall health and wellness. Here are some of the offerings:
Digital Membership
This plan provides access to the WW app, which includes tracking tools, recipes, workouts, and support from coaches and members. It also includes a personalized Points budget based on age, height, weight, and gender.
Workshop + Digital Membership
This plan includes everything in the Digital Membership plan, as well as access to weekly in-person workshops led by WW coaches. The workshops offer support, motivation, and accountability, as well as the opportunity to connect with other members.
Personal Coaching
This plan provides one-on-one coaching sessions with a WW coach, as well as access to the Digital Membership tools and resources. The coach provides personalized support, guidance, and accountability.
WW Fresh
This is a meal delivery service that provides healthy, pre-portioned meals and snacks to make it easier for members to stay on track with their weight loss goals.
WellnessWins
This is a rewards program that provides members with incentives for reaching their weight loss and wellness goals, such as free products, exclusive experiences, and discounts on WW products and services.
Products
WW also offers a range of food products, cookbooks, kitchen tools, and fitness equipment to help members follow the program and make healthy choices.
The WeightWatchers Points System
The WeightWatchers point system, now known as the Points system, assigns a value to different foods and drinks based on their nutritional content. Each food and drink is assigned a specific Points value, which takes into account its calories, protein, sugar, and saturated fat. The Points value is designed to encourage members to make healthier choices and to help them stay within their daily calorie budget.
Daily Points
Members are assigned a daily Points budget based on their age, weight, height, and gender. They can then use their budget to create meals and snacks using any combination of foods and drinks. The Points value for each food and drink is displayed in the WW app or other resources, such as a printed guide or the WW website.
High Calorie = High Points
Foods that are high in sugar, saturated fat, or calories generally have a higher Points value, while foods that are high in protein or fibre have a lower Points value. Members are encouraged to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, which have lower Points values.
Flexible and Adaptable
The Points system is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing members to make choices that fit their preferences and lifestyle. It encourages members to develop healthy habits, such as tracking their food intake, making mindful food choices, and staying active, to support long-term weight loss and wellness.
WeightWatchers is different from other low calorie diets?
If you know calcount, you’ll know that we always say that weight loss is achieved by sustaining a calorie deficit, and the WeightWatchers system is no different. Where it is different is in the way you go about attaining and maintaining your calorie deficit. The WeightWatchers system differs from regular low-calorie diets in several ways:
Focus on Behaviour Change
The WeightWatchers system focuses not just on what you eat, but also on how you eat. It encourages members to develop healthy habits, such as tracking their food intake, eating more whole foods, and being mindful of their eating behaviours. This approach is designed to help members develop sustainable habits that support long-term weight loss and wellness.
Flexibility
Unlike many low-calorie diets that restrict certain foods or food groups, the WeightWatchers system allows members to eat any food they like, as long as they stay within their daily Points budget. This flexibility allows members to enjoy their favourite foods in moderation, without feeling deprived or restricted.
Support and Accountability
The WeightWatchers system offers a range of support and accountability options, such as in-person workshops, digital tools, and personal coaching. This support is designed to help members stay motivated and on track, even when facing challenges or setbacks.
Points System
The WeightWatchers system uses a Points system to assign values to different foods and drinks based on their nutritional content. This system encourages members to choose foods that are higher in protein and lower in sugar and saturated fat, which can help them feel fuller and more satisfied.
The WeightWatchers system is designed to be a lifestyle change rather than a short-term diet. It emphasizes healthy habits, flexibility, and support, which can help members achieve sustainable weight loss and improve their overall health and wellness.
What WeightWatchers followers say
WeightWatchers Australia users tend to have positive experiences with the program. Here are some common things that most users say about the program:
Easy to Follow
Many users find the program easy to follow and appreciate the flexibility it offers. The Points system allows them to eat a variety of foods and still stay within their daily budget, which makes it easier to stick to the program long-term.
Supportive Community
WeightWatchers offers a supportive community of members and coaches, which can help members stay motivated and on track. The in-person workshops and online forums provide a space for members to connect, share tips and recipes, and offer encouragement to each other.
Effective for Weight Loss
WeightWatchers is often praised for its effectiveness in helping members lose weight. The program focuses on making sustainable changes to eating habits and lifestyle, which can lead to long-term weight loss and improved health.
Encourages Healthy Choices
The program emphasizes healthy eating habits, such as eating more fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Many users appreciate that the program encourages them to make healthier choices and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Customisable to Individual Needs
WeightWatchers offers a range of plans and options, including digital-only and in-person coaching, to fit different lifestyles and preferences. Users can also personalize their Points budget based on their individual needs and goals.
Of course, everyone’s experience with WeightWatchers is different, and some users may have different opinions. However, it is fair to say that WeightWatchers tends to be well-regarded by its users and has a strong reputation for promoting sustainable weight loss and healthy habits.
The WeightWatchers App
The WeightWatchers app is a mobile application that provides users with tools and resources to support their weight loss and wellness goals. The app is available for download on iOS and Android devices and can be used by WeightWatchers members as well as non-members.
Some features of the WeightWatchers app include:
Points Tracker: The app allows users to track their daily Points intake by logging the foods and drinks they consume. It also provides access to the Points values of thousands of foods and drinks, making it easy for users to make informed choices about what to eat.
Personalized Coaching: For members who opt for coaching, the app provides access to a personal coach who can provide guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.
Activity Tracker: The app also allows users to track their physical activity and provides personalized activity goals based on their fitness level and goals.
Recipe Ideas: The app offers a variety of healthy recipe ideas, with Points values included, to help users plan meals and snacks.
Community Support: The app provides access to a community of WeightWatchers members who can offer support and motivation to each other.
The WeightWatchers app is designed to make it easy for users to stay on track with their weight loss and wellness goals, even when they’re on the go. It provides a range of tools and resources to help users make healthy choices, track their progress, and stay motivated.
The WeightWatchers Food Sources
WeightWatchers Australia users can get the food for the program from a variety of sources, depending on their preferences and lifestyle. Here are some common ways that WeightWatchers users get their food:
Regular Everyday Food
WeightWatchers members can buy their food at any grocery shop. The program provides guidance on how to make healthy food choices and offers a range of recipes that are tailored to the program’s Points system.
Online Grocery Delivery
Some WeightWatchers members choose to order their groceries online and have them delivered to their door. This can be a convenient option for those who are short on time or have difficulty getting to the grocery store.
WeightWatchers Food Products
WeightWatchers also offers a range of branded food products, including snacks, frozen meals, and pantry staples. These products are often designed to be low in Points and are a convenient option for those who want to save time on meal prep.
Meal Delivery Services
You can order food delivery from WeightWatchers. The meal delivery service offers meals that are tailored to the WeightWatchers program. This service can be a convenient option for those who don’t have time to cook or want to try new recipes.
As you can see, WeightWatchers does not require members to buy any specific foods or products. Instead, the program provides guidance on how to make healthy food choices and encourages members to choose foods that are low in Points and high in nutrients.
WeightWatchers Meal Plans
Here is an example of a daily meal plan for someone on the WeightWatchers program. Keep in mind that Points values may vary depending on the specific food brands and serving sizes used.
Breakfast:
Greek yogurt with sliced banana and a drizzle of honey (6 Points)
Whole wheat English muffin with 1 scrambled egg and 1 slice of turkey bacon (6 Points)
Morning Snack:
Apple slices with 1 tablespoon of almond butter (3 Points)
Lunch:
Grilled chicken breast with roasted vegetables (sweet potato, broccoli, and bell pepper) (3 Points)
Quinoa salad with spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese (5 Points)
Afternoon Snack:
Baby carrots and cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of hummus (3 Points)
Dinner:
Baked salmon with roasted Brussels sprouts and brown rice (7 Points)
Mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette (1 Point)
Evening Snack:
Air-popped popcorn (2 Points)
Total Daily Points: 33
This is just an example, and there are many different ways to structure a daily meal plan on the WeightWatchers program. The key is to focus on healthy, whole foods that are low in Points and high in nutrients, while also leaving room for some treats and indulgences within the daily Points budget.
How does the WeightWatchers community work?
The WeightWatchers community is a supportive network of individuals who are all working toward their weight loss and wellness goals. There are several ways that the WeightWatchers community works in Australia:
Meetings: WeightWatchers meetings are held regularly and provide members with the opportunity to connect with others in person. During meetings, members can share their experiences, ask questions, and offer support to one another.
Virtual Workshops: WeightWatchers also offers virtual workshops, which are online meetings where members can connect with each other from anywhere in the world. Virtual workshops are conducted via video conference and offer the same support and guidance as in-person meetings.
Online Community: WeightWatchers has an online community where members can connect with each other through forums and social media. The online community provides a platform for members to share their stories, ask questions, and offer support to one another.
Social Media: WeightWatchers has a strong presence on social media, with dedicated accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Members can connect with each other and find inspiration by following these accounts and participating in online challenges and events.
Personal Coaching: For members who opt for coaching, WeightWatchers provides access to a personal coach who can offer guidance and support on an individual basis. Coaches are trained to help members set goals, overcome obstacles, and stay motivated throughout their weight loss journey.
The WeightWatchers community is designed to provide support and accountability to members as they work toward their weight loss and wellness goals. Members can connect with each other in a variety of ways and find inspiration, motivation, and guidance from coaches and other members.
WeightWatchers Workshops
If you join WeightWatchers you don’t have to go to their regular meetings (known as Workshops), but you can if you want the extra support. WeightWatchers Workshops are in-person meetings held by WeightWatchers to provide support and guidance for individuals who are looking to lose weight, adopt a healthier lifestyle, and improve their overall well-being.
In these workshops, members meet with a trained WW coach and other like-minded individuals who are also on a weight loss journey. The meetings offer a supportive and welcoming environment where members can share their experiences, discuss challenges, and celebrate successes.
The workshops include a range of activities, such as weigh-ins, discussions on healthy habits, guidance on nutrition, exercise tips, and strategies for overcoming obstacles. Members also receive personalized coaching and support from their coach, who helps them set achievable goals and provides guidance on how to reach them.
The WeightWatchers Workshops are designed to be an interactive and engaging experience that empowers individuals to make positive changes to their health and well-being. The workshops are available in many different locations and are open to anyone who wants to join, regardless of their weight loss goals or level of fitness.
WeightWatchers ZeroPoint foods
ZeroPoint foods are foods that are allowed on the WeightWatchers program and do not count toward a member’s daily Points budget. These foods are chosen because they are nutritious, filling, and low in calories, making them great choices for weight loss and wellness.
Some examples of ZeroPoint foods in the WeightWatchers program:
Most fruits and vegetables: This includes options like apples, berries, bananas, oranges, spinach, broccoli, carrots, peppers, and more.
Lean proteins: This includes options like skinless chicken breast, turkey breast, fish, seafood, tofu, and eggs.
Legumes: This includes options like lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and kidney beans.
Non-fat dairy: This includes options like plain Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and skim milk.
Whole grains: This includes options like brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat pasta, and oatmeal.
ZeroPoint foods are not unlimited, and portion control is still important. However, they are great options for filling up and staying satisfied while staying within the daily Points budget. By emphasizing ZeroPoint foods, WeightWatchers encourages a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and low in empty calories.
WeightWatchers and Special Dietary Requirements
WeightWatchers offers a variety of resources and tools to help members with special dietary requirements, such as food allergies or intolerances, vegetarian or vegan diets, and gluten-free diets.
One of the key features of the WeightWatchers program is their Points system, which assigns a point value to each food based on its nutritional value, including calories, saturated fat, sugar, and protein. This system allows members to make informed choices about what they eat, and to customize their meals and snacks to fit their dietary needs and preferences.
Specific Diet Meal Plans
In addition to the Points system, WeightWatchers offers a variety of recipes and meal ideas that are tailored to specific dietary requirements, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or low-sugar options. They also have a team of experts and nutritionists who can provide guidance and support to members with special dietary needs.
If you have specific dietary requirements, it’s important to inform your WeightWatchers coach or consultant so that they can provide personalized support and advice. They may be able to suggest specific foods or recipes that are suitable for your needs, or help you navigate dining out or traveling while sticking to your dietary requirements.
WeightWatchers Coaches
Another thing that makes WeightWatchers unique is a group of people know as WeightWatchers Coaches. WeightWatchers Experts are individuals who are trained and certified by WeightWatchers to guide and support members through their weight loss and wellness journey. They are also known as experts, consultants, or leaders.
Training
WeightWatchers Experts are required to undergo a rigorous training program that includes in-depth education on the WeightWatchers program, nutrition, behaviour change, and coaching techniques. They are also required to complete ongoing training and development to stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in the field.
Screening
In order to become a WeightWatchers Expert, candidates typically go through a screening process that includes an application, interview, and assessment of their coaching and leadership skills. They must also meet certain qualifications, such as a minimum level of education or professional experience in health, wellness, or coaching.
Not Necessarily Dietitians
WeightWatchers Experts are not necessarily registered dietitians or medical professionals, but they are trained to provide evidence-based guidance and support to help members achieve their weight loss and wellness goals. They are also required to adhere to strict ethical and professional standards set by WeightWatchers.
WeightWatchers Experts play a vital role in the WeightWatchers community by providing personalized support, motivation, and education to help members make sustainable lifestyle changes for improved health and well-being.
WeightWatchers Before and After
Over the decades, millions of people have successfully lost weight and retaken control of their health with WeightWatchers. Tens of thousands of Australians have stories like these:
But we’ve all seen before and after photos before, every competing diet on the internet has them. One of the advantages of being so popular and so long-lived is that WeightWatchers has had the attention of serious academics and scientists.
WeightWatchers works, it is Academically Proven
Several peer-reviewed studies have been conducted on the efficacy of the WeightWatchers program. Here are some examples:
A randomized controlled trial published in The Lancet in 2011 found that overweight and obese adults who followed the WeightWatchers program lost more weight over 12 months than those who received self-help materials or weight loss advice from their healthcare provider. The study also found that WeightWatchers participants were more likely to achieve a clinically significant weight loss of 5% or more of their initial body weight.
A meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine in 2018 analysed 10 randomized controlled trials and found that the WeightWatchers program was associated with significant weight loss compared to control groups. The analysis also found that the WeightWatchers program was associated with improved blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels.
A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2015 analysed data from over 1,000 overweight and obese adults who participated in the WeightWatchers program. The study found that participants lost an average of 5.2% of their initial body weight after 12 months and that higher levels of program attendance and adherence were associated with greater weight loss.
These studies suggest that the WeightWatchers program can be an effective weight loss and wellness program for many people.
WeightWatchers Prepared Meal Delivery
Whilst it works best with a WeightWatchers subscription, you can order meals directly from WeightWatchers without a contract. It is a convenient way for customers to enjoy healthy and delicious meals without the hassle of cooking. The process of ordering this service is quite straightforward.
Firstly, customers can choose a meal plan that suits their needs, with options ranging from 5 to 14 meals. They can then decide to purchase it as a one-off or opt for a weekly subscription.
Next, customers need to check if the delivery service is available in their postcode area and select a delivery date that works for them.
After selecting the delivery date, customers can choose their individual meals from the menu, which includes a variety of options designed to meet different dietary preferences and requirements. Payment can then be made through the secure online payment system.
For customers who opt for a weekly subscription, it’s important to create an account and edit their meals before the Friday 6am cut-off time. This ensures that they receive the meals they want for the upcoming week.
WeightWatchers Food Delivery Cost
WeightWatchers prepared meals are delivered with prices similar to those of other leading meal delivery companies (see our big comparison of meal delivery companies here!). You can expect to pay about $11.00 per meal, with prices reduced for bulk and subscription orders.
How much does a WeightWatchers Subscription Cost?
WeightWatchers Australia offers various pricing plans to suit different budgets and preferences. Their standard pricing starts at $42.50 per month for the Core plan, which gives you access to their app with personalized weight loss plans and over 6000 recipes. If you’re looking for extra support, the Premium plan is priced at $81.95 per month and includes access to workshops. For those who want one-on-one coaching, the Personal Coaching plan is available at $109.50 per month and includes coaching sessions via Zoom.
WeightWatchers Ambassadors
WeightWatchers Ambassadors are members of the WeightWatchers community who have achieved significant weight loss and wellness success while following the program. They are chosen by WeightWatchers to share their stories and inspire and motivate others who are on their own weight loss journeys.
WeightWatchers Ambassadors are not employees of WeightWatchers, but they receive support and recognition from the company for their achievements. They may be featured in marketing materials, social media, and other communication channels to share their experiences and promote the WeightWatchers program.
Ambassadors are selected based on their personal success with the program, as well as their leadership and communication skills. They are typically highly engaged members of the WeightWatchers community who have demonstrated a commitment to helping others and sharing their knowledge and experience.
WeightWatchers Ambassadors play an important role in the WeightWatchers community by sharing their stories, providing motivation and support, and helping to inspire others to achieve their weight loss and wellness goals.
WeightWatchers Review: You Ready?
That pretty much sums up what to expect from WeightWatchers in Australia. Do you think you might want to give them a go? Find out about how to get started by visiting the WeightWatchers site!
