Adventure Fitness Athletic Club (AFAC) is excited to offer Free Bariatric Support Group meetings for both members and non-members. We hope you will join us on the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. in our Think Tank room.
The meetings are led by Susan Schaffner, the owner of Adventure Fitness Athletic Club. Susan underwent bariatric surgery in 2005, so she understands everything a person goes through before, during, and after their procedure. Her bariatric experience has given her a lifelong passion to help others improve their health and reach their weight loss and fitness goals.
In addition to Susan’s first-hand knowledge with bariatric surgery, she also has received the training and credentials required to be an effective mentor for others. Among her many other certifications, Susan is a:
- Bariatric Support Group Leader Certified with Bariatric International
- Support Group Leader Certified with ObesityHelp
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Personal Trainer and Group Instructor
- Certified American Nordic Walking Association (ANWA) Personal Instructor
Who Should Attend a Bariatric Support Group Meeting?
Bariatric support groups are great for all Weight Loss Surgery (WLS) patients at any point during their journey — from prospective patients to pre-ops and post-ops. Sometimes family and friends will also attend meetings to better understand what their loved one is going through and how they can help.
Since there is often a diverse mix of attendees at Bariatric Support Group Meetings, it’s a perfect place for those considering bariatric surgery to learn from patients who have been through the process. It’s also helpful for those who have slipped up in their program and need to get back on track. Overall, these meetings are ideal for keeping everyone focused and accountable!
Why Should I Attend a Bariatric Support Group Meeting?
Most WLS patients know that, in addition to surgery, they need to change their diet and exercise habits to lose weight and keep it off. What many patients don’t know, however, is that research shows regular attendance at Bariatric Support Group meetings is a vital component of short-term and long-term weight loss success. Here are some reasons why:
- Education — There is a lot to learn when you become a bariatric patient, way more than you can absorb at the doctor’s office or by doing your own research. Bariatric Support Groups teach you about common terminology, food choices, vitamins, meal plans, the most up-to-date medical recommendations, and much more.
- Connections — You might have friends and family members to encourage you, but that’s not the same as getting support from people who have walked a mile in your shoes. Many close friendships are formed at our meetings.
- Comfort — We all need a safe space to openly talk about our struggles and not be judged. You’ll be surprised to learn that others in the group have been through some of the same situations you have and can offer ideas to help you cope and make progress. Sometimes, just having an understanding ear to listen as you air your feelings is incredibly helpful.
Even if you’re doing well and feel like you don’t need a support group now, you will need one at some point in your weight loss journey. We all go through trying times, and during those times, a support group can give you the strength you need to push through. You might feel like an outsider at first, but the more you attend the meetings, the more people you’ll meet and the better you’ll feel.
It’s important to get your support system together as soon as possible so it will be there for you when you need it!
What Happens at a Bariatric Support Group Meeting?
Most Bariatric Support Group meetings have a topic planned in advance that will be discussed. This helps to educate attendees and allows them to share their experiences to help others. Topics might include emotional eating, fitness, and food addiction, to name a few.
After the topic is discussed, there is usually time left over for questions and open conversation. Meeting attendees will often gather afterward to enjoy a little social time before they head home.
Learn More
To learn more about our monthly Bariatric Journey meetings at AFAC, call Susan at 720-849-0245 or email her at susan@adventurefitness.club. Club members can register on MINDBODY.
Our next Bariatric Journey meeting will be at the gym on September 1st, 2020, and this month’s topic is “What Can I Do Instead of Stress Eating?”
We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting!
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