The Pros & Cons Of Subscription Plans
The Business Of Weight Loss
Post-Christmas is the worst. Ad after ad of weight loss schemes everywhere. They know just when to pounce and when overweight people are at their most vulnerable. Like a predator attacking a wounded prey. There are many things to consider when thinking about the pros & cons of subscription plans.
Look around and it’s everywhere. Whole sections in stores are dedicated to the cause.
Just Another Business
In It For The Money?
The diet industry is a money-making venture like any business. And like any good business, they use several underhand tactics for us to part with our cash. This is nothing new.
What They Really, Really Want…
Many years ago, I was watching a documentary on the weight loss industry. A very popular and profit-making weight loss company were featured. An ex-employee admitted they didn’t want you to lose weight because that’s bad for business.
You can see why. Lose weight and you stop subscribing — a no-brainer.
Desperate For Business
When I started this journey, I enquired about several weight loss/healthier living schemes. I’d get to the point where I was just about to check out before closing the tab. These companies frequently send emails with fantastic offers. If I don’t take up RIGHT NOW, I will lose forever. This is usually untrue because the same (and sometimes better) offers will land in my inbox.
Subscription Reliance
I read on Trustpilot that some companies make life difficult once you’ve signed up. Taking unauthorized payments for subscriptions even though you’ve cancelled.
The Pros & Cons Of Subscription Plans
Pros
- Undoubtedly, any subscription plan will work if you apply. My method works but doesn’t work if I go off the rails.
- Some subscriptions are pretty cheap but more complex plans can be pricey.
- A subscription plan can motivate weight loss but only if you stick with it!
- On most plans, you can unsubscribe at any time so you are not tied into long contracts.
- Going to weekly weigh-in meetings (Weightwatchers, Slimming World) can aid weight loss and mental health.
Cons
- You’re very keen and eager at the start but after a while, the plan is unworkable for you, and you keep the subscription active despite not using it. Often, to get the best deals you have to pay an upfront fee.
- A lot of information is available for free on the Internet. I did some research and devised my own plan which works for me.
- Underhand tactics from companies taking unauthorized payments and making cancellation difficult.
- Which one do you choose? There are so many out there!
Conclusion
Keep it in the back of your mind that these are businesses like any other business and the primary function is to make money. I get the impression these companies care more about profit than weight loss. However, such plans can be useful if you approach them with a little bit of caution.
I’ve no doubt any plan which involves eating the right food and limiting what you eat will give results. Whether you want to pay for the privilege is up to you. I’ve gone down the road where I’m doing my own thing and am getting results.
