Some people have tried every diet in the book and just can't keep weight off. They might lose a few pounds at first, but will eventually get frustrated or bored with the program and gain all the weight back, sometimes more. This kind of yo-yo dieting isn't just a serious source of depression, but it can also be a huge health risk.

If you're someone who has trouble sticking to diets, you're not alone. The majority of people who start diets won't stick to them. But there could be a solution to all your diet problems, and it's probably not what you'd expect. It's the spa. In fact, a Destination Spa trip may be just what you need to get your weight on the right track.

What is a Destination Spa?
A Destination Spa is an intensive spa-style getaway that focuses on helping guests achieve a healthy life. Some of these spas focus on detoxifying the body or on reconnecting mind, body, and spirit, but the majority makes weight loss its goal. During their time at a weight-loss-oriented Destination Spa, guests follow a structured schedule to help jumpstart healthy lifestyle habits. Usually, there are many cardio fitness classes each day, in addition to wellness classes like yoga, seminars about good eating, cooking classes, community-building workshops, and optional spa treatments, like massages. All guests at destination spas follow the same course, so participants get to know one another and work through their weight problems together. Usually, guests share living spaces as well.

Although some people consider weight loss spas to be glorified fat camps, they're much more than that. A Destination Spa has the goal of teaching you to improve your lifestyle for your health. You not only lose weight, but you also learn to keep it off. A program at a Destination Spa will be difficult at times, but the camaraderie it fosters and the helpful staff make it much more rewarding than frustrating.

How much weight will I lose at a Destination Spa?
There's no telling how much you'll lose when you go to a spa program. It's all about the amount of effort you put into your time at the spa. Most people will lose about 30 pounds in two weeks, but it varies. And not everyone who spends time at destination spas needs to lose weight. Some people like to go just for the active lifestyle and community bonding experience.

The thing that you can expect to take away from a Destination Spa experience is new knowledge about healthy lifestyles. So even if you don't lose a massive amount of weight while you're there, you'll have the tools to change your eating and living habits in ways that will help you lose down the road. And unlike fad diets, the program you'll learn at destination spas really works. It's not about making big sacrifices; instead, you learn about small changes that will make a big difference.

Who Should Go to a Destination Spa?
Anyone over the age of 18 is welcome at destination spas, but they're especially meant for people who have tried to lose weight in the past without success. It doesn't matter if you're 10 pounds overweight or 100, a destination spa will help you beat the weight that just won't come off. A trip to a destination spa can be very expensive, so it might not make sense to go to one if you haven't tried other programs in the past. However, if you are committed to getting healthy and want to lose weight, a destination spa can be a smart investment to make no matter what your past experiences.

What's Included in the Cost?
The good thing about most destination spas is the price you pay includes everything except travel and personal expenses. The quote you receive when researching spas will cover your lodging, food, and classes. Most often, spa treatments like massages are considered optional and cost extra.

How Much Will It Cost?
No destination spa is cheap, but there are some that are more affordable than others. Expect to pay about $1,000 per week on the low end of the spectrum. The high end could cost $10,000 or more. Keep in mind these prices do not include travel expenses.

How Long Should I Stay?
To get the most out of a destination spa, you need to stay for at least three nights. In fact, many spas have minimum stay requirements and won't let guests just pop in for a night or two. Most staffs recommend you stay for a week or more to get the best results. It's common for people who want to see big changes to book month-long sabbaticals at destination spas too.

Where Can I Find a Weight-Loss Spa Program?
There aren't too many destination spas around, so they can be hard to find. For a complete listing of legitimate North American spas, see the Destination Spa Group at www.destinationspagroup.com.