Ramstein group offers ways to take off pounds sensibly

  • Published
  • By Courtesy of Rita Marquez-Lohr,
  • Ramstein TOPS leader
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  Are you frustrated, discouraged, or depressed about your weight or size?
Come join others at Ramstein in a group called Take off Pounds Sensibly, TOPS, who have struggled with the same issues and who are now supporting each other in dealing with their weight. 

The support group is just that - a place where others can come where there are no items to buy, no food to purchase, just unconditional support through discussions, informational articles, education, sharing and planned speakers. 

TOPS Club, Inc. is a nonprofit, noncommercial weight-loss support organization based in Milwaukee, Wis., with chapters located worldwide. Its two-fold objective is to encourage healthy lifestyles through weight-management support groups and to sponsor obesity research. 

The Ramstein chapter meets every Tuesday evening from 5:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. There are many upcoming events in the upcoming months. 

There will be a psychologist that will visit and give a presentation on lifestyle changes and weight loss. A tour of the commissary is scheduled with a briefing on reading nutrition labels. 

Another guest speaker will provide us with tips on using herbs and spices to liven up our meals. 

While there is a meditation lesson scheduled to teach how to relax, meetings also include various presentations by members. 

TOPS also offer fitness activities such as a walk and instructions on the use of resistance bands and isometric exercises. Everyone is encouraged to find a plan that works best for them on how to lose weight. 

There is no specific plan or packaged food items to buy. There are lots of ideas and success stories exchanged and plenty of moral support. 

Men and woman alike are invited to join. Ideas and suggestions on what the group would like to see us do are encouraged. 

This is our support group and we do our very best to take everyone's interests in mind as well as some limitations people have. If you are not able to participate in a physical activity we plan, you are not obligated to do it. You are welcome to do what you can. We are there to share and support. 

Features of TOPS
- A system of competition and recognition to provide additional support
- TOPS' healthy lifestyle guide, The Choice Is Mine, contains details about the exchange system for meal planning, as well as motivational tips and practical advice
-TOPS News - membership magazine included in TOPS' annual membership fee 

For more information, come to the next TOPS meeting at Bldg. 2117A on the south side of Ramstein, scheduled for every Tuesday except U.S. Federal holidays, or call Rita at 06301-796025, Linda at 06303-807708 or Rosemary 0175-488-0038. 

The meeting on Sept. 15, will be the meditation class. The cost for that is 10 Euros per person. Please call ahead to ensure space is still available. Regular meetings resume the following Tuesday.