Slimming clubs are support groups to encourage weight loss through healthy diet and fitness.
Known as lifestyle weight management programmes, slimming clubs have been recommended by the National Health Service in the UK since 2007.
[1] Public slimming clubs are typically commercial ventures[2] and are distinct from non-profit clinical groups, which are usually short-term in nature, and twelve-step groups such as Overeaters Anonymous, which address food addictions.
[4] Weight Watchers, one of the most popular slimming clubs, was founded in the United States in 1961, when housewife Jean Nidetch began a support group at her home in Queens.
[1][2] Rosemary Conley founded another British slimming club, which is now online only.