Weight Watchers Changes 2019 - No Longer Weight Watchers!

I always appreciate your posts. But, I don't think you should say that WW is giving up on life time in the future unless you know for sure. That could be a game changer for many.

Debbie

Lifetime Membership going away?

I'm fairly sure that would be the end for me, but I'll try to stay positive since I'm not back there yet.

Travers Koerner

I've been attending WW meetings off and on for 50 years. The last time was 11 years ago. I worked very hard for 6 years to reach my goal of Lifetime - so that I could reap the benefits (free meeting attendance, etc.) And even the suggestion of taking that away....well I just won't go there...I've been discouraged, quit, restarted gained, lost so many times...now finally I earned that achievement - and I still struggle to stay within the 2-pound range of being Lifetime...and it motivates me to make choices that I otherwise might not make. Might? I know myself..and the reason I do things is not always about my benefit/best choice...it's simply because of that scale that I know I have to face at least once a month - by weighing at or near goal...I hope they hear us...they haven't heard us as far as Free Style - as a foodaholic there are no 'free' foods...even foods with 0 points are not calorie free...and somehow my body seems to know the difference...so say what they will...I know what I have to do to make it work for me - and LTM and that scale are highly motivational for me. I've done it with them and without them - and without them I gain weight every single time...and have to start all over...

Change is good..but I do hope they don't throw out the only thing that so many have worked for along with so many other things...perhaps another WEIGHT management organization will pop up...because after all...that's what it's all been about for oh so many years...wellness was just a side benefit for me...

Sue G

I'm a lifetime member. Gained some back since then, about 8 years ago. I LOVE LOVE LOVE, freestyle! I'm already losing weight again. Yay! I would really like to understand more about "meatless" products, like Morning Star Farms and Boca, etc. Love your blogs Snack Girl. Thank you.

Fran Marcus

I love Freestyle. I was already Lifetime,but decided to lose 10 lbs. I love the program and feel Lifetimers are incentives for new people. I’ll be very disappointed in WW if they do this. We have many retirees at our meetings. They will be very turned off if you get too much into technolog too fast.

Sue

Wonder how they will market all the prepackaged, overpriced “snack” items they sell as being healthful?

Ronnie

I think doing away with free meetings fir lifetime achievers is wrong. People have worked hard for that weight loss and to now make them pay to continue meetings is not a "wellness" strength.

chris chambers

I liked WW when it was Weight Watchers and before they switched to Freestyle.

I am tired of all the constant changes in the program and am doing SmartPoints independently.

Manona

If Weight Watchers loses the lifetime membership weigh-in, they will lose me. I worked two hard for a year to attain goal. The monthly weigh-in is my check-and-balance system and keeps me at goal. If it goes away, I will go find another program.

I can't help but feel they are trying to appear "hip, cool, and modern," going with the new way to view your body. The fact of the matter is that losing the weight and keeping it off has gotten me off of blood pressure medication, and I feel so much more energetic and enjoy wearing my clothes. I don't really care about learning to accept my body at a weight that doesn't feel good or focusing on good health instead of healthy weight.

Cyndy

Do you know for sure Lifetime is going away? It doesn't make sense at all for a Lifetime membership to change with this remodel- what a wonderful reward. Wellness is a lifestyle change that one takes on for good, not just while losing weight or training for a goal. As research and processes change, people who have reached their "goal" should be entitled to be as much in the know as people who are new to the process of getting well. I think it makes LESS sense and is a shame for them to get rid of the Lifetime membership at this point if they are truly committed to keeping their members healthy for life.

Lori

Just wanted to mention that I've been using Headspace for 3 weeks and it is awesome! Also - it is included for free as a skill on Alexa if you are an Amazon Prime member so no monthly fee!

Nancy White

I have been with Weight Watchers for many years. I have reached Lifetime at least 4 times. I can probably buy a spanking brand new car with the amount of money I have paid for my monthly pass over the 12 or so years. I use WW to keep my weight in check. I pay for the monthly pass in order to make myself go to the meetings. I have learned quite a bit about weight loss and maintenance from other WW members and meeting discussions. The WW scale keeps me accountable. But as of lately, weight loss is not discussed vs discussion of the WW App on cell phone. About 25 minutes goes towards the WW App and the other 5 is spent on Weight Loss celebrations. So I now go to the meeting to weigh in and then I just leave.

Annod Nostaw

Wow!

How about commenting that they are going to be sending you FREE GIFTS?

Now, I didn't bother to read YOUR WHOLE ENTIRE POST...because I find your title to be very NEGATIVE.

I read where you will be rewarding for logging your food, tracking your exercise.

Don't know why you have to be so negative.

Big deal-

Now calling it a STUDIO instead of a Center.

Laurie

Would be great if our insurance companies covered some of this. I bet WW would get double the members then.

Kristine L

WW is a BUSINESS. Their goal is PROFIT. They bank on the weakness of people who have no self control. Get real, people!

Ronnie

I feel the same....worked hard to be a lifetime member. My goal was to loose weight only.

Darlene

Thank you for opening this discussion, Lisa. I too am a lifetime member - since 1971. My question is: how will they charge and measure ‘wellness’ if not by the scale? Sometimes due to illness, I’ll miss a month. Sometimes I don’t make my goal weight and have to pay. I accept this. It’s a business. But I haven’t read anywhere how we will be charged for these ‘workshops.’

Vicki O.

I think the overall changes are good, but I will be very discouraged and disheartened if they get rid of Lifetime. I like focuses on overall health. I think the BMI is outdated and doesn't account for muscle, but I'm not a doctor, so it's just my opinion.

I like Freestyle because I'm eating cleaner, but I really have to watch my portions of the 0 point foods. As someone said, they aren't free foods. I like workshops better because it's more about learning and building. People get stuck because they think it's a diet and think they can go on their own (and some people can). I can't do it on my own. The idea of workshops and coaches gives me the idea that it's ongoing and we keep learning.

Still, I really hope Lifetime doesn't change. It's a major selling point. I understand though that if weight isn't someone's primary goal then how are they going to reach Lifetime. Online members aren't able to reach Lifetime now. But if we pay more for the meetings, we should have that benefit of not having to pay.

Thanks for the heads up. I want to know more!!!

Kelly Lynn

I’m wondering if they are doing the new ww. Then you can weigh what you are.if you have a lifetime but are over weigh again I get to stop paying an be able to go to ww on my lifetime then????? Is there no weigh limits??

Marie

I’m Lifetime and just reached my goal again for the first time since the 80’s two weeks ago. It’s something that I’ve wanted for YEARS. I’m so happy and hoping and assuming that current Lifetime members will be grandfathered in. WW couldn’t possibly be that clueless to alienate all its current Lifetimers, I hope!

I’m looking forward to the new changes (I think) and certainly glad that they learned their lesson last time and are not changing the points system again and making people buy all new products. Time will tell.

One last thing; do we have to be lectured by Laurie in this feed too? 🙄 There are lots of us that have been through several changes and have been doing this for a LONG time. How about you just read the posts and not run people down that are a little concerned about the changes, Laurie. You might learn something.

Wendy

If WW gets rid of lifetime, I am done with them. Period. They make plenty of money without getting rid of lifetime. I would bet that the majority of people who make lifetime still end up paying again at some point due to weight gain. I made lifetime years ago, but I currently have to pay because I gained the weight back. However, earning the right to attend without paying again is a motivating goal for me. Also, what about seniors. My mother lost $50. She is now a lifetime member. She really can't afford to pay to attend meetings, but needs to continue to go so that she can maintain her weightloss. If she has to pay to go even when she is not above her goal weight, she will stop going. She will then gain the weight back in all likelihood. In addition, her only goal is weight control. Same for me. I am not interested in WW acting like my parent. I already get annoyed when they put a points premium on a food because it isn't healthy. Healthy or not, if it is low in calories, the points should be low.

Tena Heffernan

I would have to agree with what many are saying. I joined WW to lose weight. Eating clean is a big plus for many of my health issues as is incorporating movement and caring for myself in general. Haven't ever made Lifetime, but that is a biggie for me as for others in terms of motivation and accountability. But shifting the focus to a healthier lifestyle is a big plus. Eating crappy processed "fat-free-sugar-free" junk just to drop pounds is not what it is all about. I sure hope they keep Lifetime, though. I am pretty close to getting there and would be sorely disappointed to see it go!

Dolores

WW is a name that is not understandable. The company should spell out their name and not just say simply WW.

Ironia Broyles

Diets do not work. WW is a wolf in sheep’s clothing, preying on body image insecurities. They know that diet is now a four letter word. They are shape shifting to get $$$.

Ann

Simply filling is no longer an option on the app.

I can understand the lifettthing going away even though I am a lifetime member. If you are focusing on wellness and you have healthy people joining then they would automatically become lifetimers!! They are opening it up to healthy weight people to get more $$, not to give them free memberships!! Maybe, you would have to come in at a certain % to get lifetime and free or something. We will have to wait and see.

Rhonda

Laurie said: Wow!

How about commenting that they are going to be sending you FREE GIFTS?

Now, I didn't bother to read YOUR WHOLE ENTIRE POST...because I find your title to be very NEGATIVE.

I read where you will be rewarding for logging your food, tracking your exercise.

Don't know why you have to be so negative.

Big deal-

Now calling it a STUDIO instead of a Center.

@Laurie, we all know from the other WW thread that you work for them. As a matter of fact, if you look at the "Wins" section of the WW description of their new focus, you need a boatload of "wins" to get, like $15 worth of WW food, or an exercise class--I mean, really, 2300 Wins for an exercise class? Where would that even be held? FREE GIFTS my foot.

Cyndy

Members who have reached their goal weight and kept it off should receive Lifetime Memb

ers benefits! Isn't that the whole point of losing weight and becoming healthy? Easy to lose but hard to keep off.

Janet Roy

I realized the 'shift' to WW (aka Wellness) was beginning when you no longer had to be at goal weight to be a leader , now a COACH, or a receptionist, now a GUIDE.

I am a years-long WW and do not do well accepting changes especially realizing they (WW, the business) are going after the younger market and are staying up with the times and the changes so that they continue to be marketable. Those of us who have been on the program or whatever it will be called KNOW the basics, including weekly weigh-ins are what works and helps keep the weight off.

But the underlying causes for gaining or regaining weight will now be the focus and maybe, just maybe, getting control of these issues will have the same result: lifetime at a healthy weight!!!!!!

I try to keep an open mind and the whole thing to do is EMBRACE the program and know and believe it will work as it always has or to leave and try to find something else that will work for you.

I am speaking to myself as I do not deal with changes well and feel lots of the same concerns you all have written about.

I would definitely upset if I was a lifetimer and now would have to pay, but I can't see WW changing that who are already at that status. I can see them changing it for the current members not at lifetime or above their lifetime goal weight and are currently paying.

LAUREN

I can’t see WW taking away the achievement of so many members who became Lifetime and it’s not fair to all the members who are trying to achieve it.

Maryann

I am a life time member. Not on goal weight but I will be. If you take away free meetings when you are on goal weight that will take away the incentive.. I keep working at it and paying each week because I know free meetings will come with me working towards a healthy lifestyle and healthy weight loss.Don't change so much WW lose what has made it great and #1. !!!

Nancy Marcks

I too have been a lifetime member for years, on and off, but if this perk is going to be abolished, so too will my membership.

Janice Beaulieu

Taking away lifetime is very short sighted. I've worked to hard to achieve this. In my opinion, you will lose many people if this happens.

Ellie Squire

Maybe they are just going to rename Lifetime? If not they will lose me after 20 yrs.

Sue

One thing about WW is they have always focused on evolving themselves, with or without much regard to current member's feelings. I have seen the Points System change, every year or two the methods have changed, and now they are changing their brand. This will naturally lose some members interest, but they are more focused on expanding to appeal to new members, not just those of us that are overweight. I think this will be an individually minded choice on whether or not people decide to follow this program. However, I am fully going to try it because WW has always been a key for my health transformation, so I'm trusting them with this. Obviously it is a business so profit is there, but the difference this program has made in my life is pivotal to my life so I'm not giving that up. WW is basically saying get with it or don't because they are going to keep going.

Brittany

Taking away Lifetime membership? That will drop alot of members. We all work very hard to achieve the rewards of that...FREE membership!

I don't like it being called a studio when I walk into an almost run down "room"....Not cool...It's being called studio because of Oprah. Let's face it. The WW meetings held in church's are NOT studios.

I try to pretend Oprah has nothing to do with WW but it's becoming harder & harder.

ruth welch

Lifetime is probably leaving because they are not making any money from it. It is a relic because it used to be a money maker early in the program. Many corporations and companies must reconstruct the way they do business otherwise they will not survive. Many do it out of greed. Ceo's and and other top officers of corporations usually make one or several millions as bonuses each year such as GM used to or maybe they still do. Having worked for GM, it can be used as an example of the issue I cited above. WW may have different programs that allow for those on a limited income. There are also other programs online that are just as effective and some of them are possibly free. Personally, I think the guidance of a nutritionist is one of the best models for healthy weight loss.

IFortuna

Move more, eat healthy, eat less(for me)....lose weight. Keep it simple. Hate freestyle...I still follow Smart Points. Maintaining my goal for over 2 years now. They better not touch my lifetime status!

Judy

I am seriously disappointed that Weight Watchers has gotten rid of its iconic name that it's had for over a half century! The whole world knows about "Weight Watchers". Nobody's going to relate to "I belong to WW" (Huh??) I first joined Weight Watchers in 1967 and there's no way I'm going to stop using the term. Emphasizing wellness is fine, but don't throw out the baby with the bath water.

Andrew Planck

First of all WW is a big business and they want to expand their business and their profit margin so I understand trying to reinvent themselves. The whole aspect of going into wellness will serve more of the general public and I get that too.

The reason I started back at weight watchers again after coming back so many times is because I really did want to focus on my health. I’m older now I wanted to drop the weight.

I feel very safe in the environment in my meetings talking about my food addiction and how I’m trying to deal with it on a daily basis. I don’t know if sitting in that same environment with people that don’t have food addictions like I do can they understand what it’s like to walk by a cookie aisle and not drool at the same time. !!!

I’ve decided to give this a fair chance and see if this work for me but one thing I really would like to keep is the Weigh in’s.

I had heard that Weigh ins are optional ?!

if they’re optional and I can go for a week or another week and not weigh in then that would be a game changer for me . I’m going to see how it works out. I really appreciate your insight into WW .

Kris

1. I’m not a lifetime member, but I want to get that status so I can stop paying the $45/month; I’d have to evaluate whether to continue or quit if lifetime/free meetings is unattainable.

2. The “coaches” lost weight through the program and can help members with it. How are they qualified otherwise to run a wellness “workshop” on stress, disease prevention/management, depression, blood pressure/health numbers or other components of wellness? I come to the meetings for weight loss reasons, not lessons on these other aspects.

3. The Weight Watchers brand is weight loss. I don’t see people paying monthly to come to wellness workshops when the same workshops are available at hospitals or health fairs for either free or less money or simply no monthly committment.

4. At today’s meeting, first thing said was that there’d be no more time set aside for celebrations. If you have something you’re grateful or thankful for, including weight loss, just say it. I don’t talk in the meetings and it’s going to be hard for me to randomly announce my pounds lost or percent lost. Thinking about it now, no one really mentioned a weight loss today.

5. I'm going to be watching connect tomorrow. There are Sunday meetings and people might be posting about the changes.

Kathy

Has anyone seen information that WW will be selling foods at these "studios"? Will they have similar plans as some of the other weight management companies like Jennie Craig?

IFortuna

I'm also lifetime & really hope it doesn't go away. I understand that we're receiving benefits & not paying, but we're also providing extra guidance and backup for our leader. My meeting is probably 40% lifetime members, and their input is so valuable. It gives a real example of what to aspire to - that your goals are achievable and your journey doesn't end at lifetime. Lifetime members DO provide a benefit back to the meetings. If I had to pay again, I would go online & stop attending meetings for sure.

Alison G

Alison G - Hi Alison, WW is a business as Ronnie said. It is a huge corporation and the bottom line is to make money. There are other resources other than WW. You might even start your own meetings and have great results or have a WW partner, like a friend, doctor, nutritionist, chiropractor or even acupuncturist. Some of these resources may have an initial outlay of money but most can give you a safe way to lose weight and refer you to regular meetings. WW is not the only fish in the pond. Best of luck all.

IFortuna

The accountants have taken over WW.You see this everywhere in the business atmosphere. It's all about the bottom line now. It's no longer about helping people to lose or rewarding people for achieving goal.

Cyndy

If free lifetime status goes away, WW will be a thing of the past for me ! Worked too hard and spent $ to achieve it 🙁

Debra Sheridan

Hi

At my WW meeting today I asked about a statement in your article...

“In other good news, there will be more zero SmartPoints Foods. Hurray!”

She said that was incorrect. Was wondering about that

Debbie

I've been a Lifetime Member for over twenty years. I've seen many changes in Weight Watcher's programs over the years and often people find change hard. Every time a certain number of people decide to stick with the previous plan. I embrace the change because Weight Watcher's has never failed me, I know if I follow whatever program they put in front of me I can maintain or lose depending on what I choose. For me that is powerful. Over the years the shift towards healthier whole foods has been welcome for me. I have a genetic predispostion to diabetes and of course love sugar so the nudging into healthier whole foods has helped my curb my sugar habits. I would love it if they grandfathered us old timers in and allow us to keep our Lifetime but would pay for Wellness Wins if they don't and continue to utilize WW's fabulous programs. I'm glad I'm not still on the program I used twenty years ago, scientific findings give us new information and I appreciate that Weight Watchers changes with it!

Elizabeth

Thanks for your reply

That could be possible she did say that about their food products that they’re bringing them in slowly. I guess we’ll have to wait and see. If you find out any updates please let us know. Thanks again

Debbie Brucato Furano

Not happy with the name change!! Enough changes already!! We join to lose weight! I go to my doctor for my health check. I'm lifetime for a year. They should have asked members for input before making so many changes!

Carol Salerno

@Kristine L - I do work for a health insurance company and there are groups that help to pay for the WW fee as they understand the importance of Wellness. You need to talk to your employer about adding that on as a benefit to your policy.

Shelley

I dont like the fact that lifetime is possibly going away. Does it mean that former lifetime members who are still at goal will have to pay to attend " workshop"?

Linda Daniels

I joined Weight Watchers about 10 years ago and lost 50 pounds doing the Points Plus program. Then I left as it got to expensive. I did gain the weight back and have recently started doing Points Plus again on my own. As far as the new name etc.,they are always making changes and those changes translate to more expenses. Who is going to pay for all of the new signs and literature? We all know that will mean an increase in the monthly costs passed onto members. They do nickel and dime members for every piece of paper the have. Years ago the books were free but not now. No thank you. I will continue to do Points Plus on my own because figuring out the points and writing down every thing that I eat works for me. So I thank Weight Watchers for teaching me that program. But I will never pay them one more cent ever again.

Lola

As a lifetime member, my motivation is going to meeting for free. If this is taken away, sorry, I will no longer be a member. Doesn’t WW state, if you follow the program, you will be healthier?

Celia Clinchoc

With the change in CEO, and the push for people to accept themselves no matter what size they are, I think the bottom line has changed to increasing profits.

I am almost two years at goal. I must say that everything WW told me about nutrition, I already knew. If I had had the willpower, I could have lost this weight on my own; I knew the proper way to eat because I've read about it for years. But I didn't have the willpower without the accountability that Weight Watchers provided with the weekly weigh-ins and free lifetime. Let's face it--we all already know how to do it, it's the doing it that is difficult. Weight Watchers provided the goal and the accountability.

Cyndy

Instead of venting or disagreeing with the changes at WW on this blog, why not write WW and tell them. I am sure they will not change their plans for the new WW but at least they will see there are people out there that have needs they are not fulfilling or planning to fill. You may even give them ideas to implement plans that will work for everyone's lifestyle, economic needs, and age.

IFortuna

IFort -

I know that many, many, many people tried your suggested approach when Weight Watchers switched to Freestyle, and yet we were unceremoniously dismissed.

Moreover, it would be naiive to think Weight Watchers has ignored the hundreds of Snack Girl comments written by unhappy Freestylers.

It's also pretty clear that a number of the (more positive OR judgementally scolding) commentators are Weight Watchers confederates.

And most people reading these threads know who they are, too.

Ms. G.

I asked if WW is going to do away with free Lifetime at my meeting yesterday. Our leader said no and that it has never been discussed. Let’s hope it stays that way!

Wendy

Dear Ms. G. I think it would be naive to believe a huge corporation would read online blogs. I do believe they would consider reading email, however. Personally I have never belonged to WW. I lost nearly 40 pounds in 3 months through help from my doctor. I think that this is the healthiest way to lose weight. As I said before, protein, veg and foods low in complex carbs are the way to go. And, discipline. I know it is hard. I make a big pot of veg soup, eat salads, have pickles for snacks, yogurt, eggs, and other protein rich foods. Eggs are very low in calories and very satisfying. I eat them nearly every day and my labs are great. Cholesterol levels are inherited and diet has very little to do with raising it. Read Harvard papers on this. At 68 years old, my doctor has told me I have the labs of a 40 year old. With this manner of eating, I have also kept my A1C (blood sugar levels) of 6.5 low enough that I have nearly reversed my diabetes.

IFortuna

The person who said, "WW is a BUSINESS. Their goal is PROFIT. They bank on the weakness of people who have no self control. Get real, people!" is absolutely wrong! WW helped me lose 60 pounds for the simple reason that I *do* have self control--otherwise I would have dropped out long ago!

Andrew Planck

Just wanted to add that I have a background in corporate public relations.

From experience, I know that when hundreds of complaints show up on one well-trafficked website (like this one), the corporation notices for sure.

BTW, before I ever commented on Snack Girl, I tried your suggestion.

I wrote to Weight Watchers and asked them to consider bringing back SmartPoints as an option, since Flexstyle was not working for me.

Weight Watchers responded tersely, firmly stating that SmartPoints would not return.

Others on these threads have received similar responses from Weight Watchers after writing in.

Basically WW's answer boil down to this:

It's their way, or the highway.

Ms. G.

I just learned today from a WW coach that Simply Filling.best plan ever is going away.

MLB

Ok, you all are seeing a huge change coming. Weight loss appears to be less important? You have to be kidding!!!!

So if Wellness Wins is going to take blood pressures and possibly blood sugars tell me who is stepping in as the Dr. or Nurse Practicianer? Are these people not understanding that obesity is a major culprit to why people end up with increased blood sugars and blood pressures in the first place. I think that a Dr.’s office is a better place to have people screened and that what the public wants and needs is an effective diet and a Leader to lead them. The meetings need to be about the food program and helping the members lose the weight with a structure program and not be told here are free foods, enjoy a 200 item food list which to me is encouraging overeating. I think that the older programs should be available for those that succeeded on them and that the ideal weight loss method should be taught how to stop yourself from overeating. Freestyle encourages you to overdo it. There is no balance and no structure.

The Wellness Wins points system to earn things is not an ideal thing to me. Stop treating members like kids. It’s something that I would tell any Leader I san not interested in this at all.

My suggestion is improve the frozen foods line and make the snack foods healthier and use stevia and monk fruit. Get the sugars out of the foods and have meal replacement shakes to challenge companies such as Slim Fast who uses Dextrose and soy in their shakes such as Keto. Go that route so if you cannot eat, you have a WW shake that can at least fortify you.

I’m a RN who works Critical Care. Believe me, weight loss is your main goal with the public. It solves so many issues and from there ok, you can dabble with their psychological things that could help to keep them on track but be aware not to substitute yourself for a Dr. office visit

I know that st a future meeting I would be very vocal asking to stay on the subject of weight loss and that I would like to be there to get rid of pounds and that the wellness points are trivial to me. Fix what’s broken with Freestyle which they know about and help me keep it off sobthat I don’t get a giant regain.

On one of my online groups there is a lady who lost a little over 200 lbs on Weight Watchers. A few sentences later, she says she regained it all and I almost cried, I got so very emotional which I usually don’t do. So I say again, help to get the members down the scale first and then help them to keep it down. Maintaining that lower body weight is everything.

Stacy Volin

Hi Lisa - I understood from your post that Weight Watchers was going to continue supporting Freestyle and Simply. In a comment on one of your other posts someone gave the heads up that Simply Filling was going to be gone after the end of October. I immediately bdid a search for Simply Filling and it is nowhere to be found. Any official information no longer exists that I could find and a Google search was pretty useless.

Have you any updates as to what is up - the contact byou spoke to doesn't seem to have been in the loop which makes me wonder if Freestyle will still be supported!

Jane

Jane

Thank you for this constructive post.

You raised many important points that have never before appeared on this thread.

I hope WW reads it.

If they do, it will be food for thought.

Mrs. G.

Hi Jane! I received an email from WW saying that simply filling will no longer be offered :(

Michelle

When free gifts are mentioned, they are not free. Paying a good fee for half an hour of listening to a coach recognize people for most of the meeting. The prizes given out are nothing of value. Same leaders are now expected to be able to advise on healthy lifestyles, unless trained in fitness or dietitians, scary. Sounds like trying to present as such a huge change, basically my opinion would be its lost focus. So many free web sites, who will continue to pay for ww.

Betty

WW has already switched where I am. I attended a meeting with a “coach” and it felt like an AA meeting protrayed on tv. A lot of rah rah and minimal strategies.

Sarah

I have belonged to WW since the 80’s. The meeting helped with staying on course with eating. Now it seems the meeting is taken up on how to work an app. If your new program is about health, & meditation etc , then people should go to a gym, WW is being accountable for my weight & the scale helps. Stop changing. The meetings are not interesting or motivating any more..

Joanne stephens

On another forum here someone remarked that it's a matter of money....so many lifetime members not paying (you've certainly earned this perk, I believe) but it does bring up another thought I had. I've been to two different meetings and I noticed that a huge number of women there were lifetimers. Either by their comments or by seeing their orange booklets (or all looking so slim). This makes sense to me now that the "mood" of the meetings seemed different. I think it is way different to be in a room of people who are at their goal vs a room full of people who have many pounds to lose. It is just not the same language, or the same struggle. Saying "how did you do this week?" to the person next to you in a room filled with lifetime goal folks does not get the same responses. So, I would like to be in a room with others who are trying to get to a goal like I am, instead of a room filled primarily with those who are already there. I would venture the guess that 2/3 of the people in a room of 50 were lifetimers. It was a bit depressing to me, I will admit. I think the motivation is different to lose 40 lbs than to maintain plus or minus a couple pounds. So, I hope WW makes some adjustments to get more new members, as most of the people there were women of a (ahem!) certain age, many having been WW members for 20-30 years. I never thought of this until reading the comments here about possible lifetime changes in the future. It makes me wonder if lifetime folks buy any of the products or if they already have them? This probably is another factor in cost analysis...A room filled with people who do not buy and who have free access will not make enough money to fund the leaders, room rent, etc. I have never gotten to goal in many years of joining and rejoining, so cannot speak to being a lifetime member. WW has kept me very conscious of food and for that I am grateful. I think it is the reason that I never have gained and gained. Like we say, I have lost over a thousand pounds if you count all my 20-30 lb weight losses! Be well, everyone!

Judy

As a lifetime member, it was always a positive for me to see that it is possible to reach a goal and maintain it. I never felt intimidated by lifetimers. So I say, keep coming back lifers and continue to show us what can be accomplished with this program.

ellie squire

I’m a lifetimer who has left and come back. So I had to pay to comeback. And I purchase their products all the time. So they still make money on me. Plus I also buy their products in the grocery store.

Graceread

As a lifetime member I would like to say that maintaining my weight is just as hard, if not harder, than it was to lose it. Too bad that I kept qutting so many times when the going got tough...I could have achieved my goal 20 years ago!! To the lady who is not motivated by lifetime members...we have the same struggles as you....we still have weigh and measure, and track. We still have good and bad days. Why don't you strike up a conversation with a lifetime member and ask for some of their hints and tips. We've been there and know where you are coming from. I have given WW enough money over the years and deserve my status.

Klaire

I’m very sad about the new WW. It seems like they are tossing the old dinosaurs aside for the new millennials. Most of the members I know are retirees. You can’t mix old age with new technology. Not to mention the fact that your entire profile will be out there for more companies to see. I really hate the marketing aspect. I also think it’s flat out age discrimination. I’ve been a member on and off for over 40 years. This is the closest I’ve come to reaching goal. I was looking forward to attaining Lifetime and finally being able to save some money. I’ve must have spent a bazillion dollars over the years from meeting fees to cookbooks to food stuffs. What a shame. You can’t stop progress but they should be a little more considerate. If profit is their goal they should be accommodating to clients of ALL ages!!!

Almost there

Why pay for Weight Watchers? They change the program too often!

I lost 35 pounds on MyFitnessPal which is FREE. The MyFitnessPal app gives me calorie credits for exercise and reminds me when my daily foods are over the limit nutritional recommendations.

It is associated with MapMyWalk to help with exercise goals.

Sarah

I agree with person who says they are trying to gear program to younger people. If they eliminate Lifetime,they will lose many many people. We know success and we can do it on our own as well. Lifetimers will never pay again for WW. We’ve given WW plenty of our $$$$! Listen to us!

Sue

This is a very poignant subject/ I have been moved by some of the posters. It is clear to me that if it is taking one 20, 30, 40 or so years and one hasn't reached their goal that there is something flawed in the Weight Watchers system. There are other programs that may be more successful for some.

IFortuna

I’m in it to lose weight. Not the wellness part I see my doctor for that! If LT goes away, so will I

Carolyn S

I have been with weight watchers for over twenty years, reaching lifetime status within the first 3 months. Through the years I have re-gained and lost the weight again about 4 to 5 times. I have definitely paid for those times and always buy products. Being a lifetime member is like getting a college degree. Taking it away is not an option....I would never step foot in there again and never look back. Lifetime is lifetime. I notice that they haven't given out any charms (bling) in months and months. Always enjoyed them but oh well. To the person that thinks lifetime members have nothing to offer, I disagree the struggle is real, the struggle is always there, it is harder to maintain the status quo (no tangible reward to it watching the numbers go down). We all need each other, young and old, new and "relics". What a terrible thing to say. I used to tell my mom before she died "you are not a burden you are a blessing."

cathy c

As someone who has joined and rejoined many times over the years, never reaching lifetime. I realize this status is not important to me, I just want to keep my weight/jeans size within a certain range and when I feel I am "there" I stop attending. So WW has been important to me, and I really think it is a good deal...This time I joined on a 3-month special for $25 a month. The meetings are worth every bit of money. But as a business person, I can see that the members are rarely under 30, and most of the meetings in my town are during the day, so working folks can't attend when I do. This points to the fact that if so many meetings are during the day, then probably most of those attending will be retired. It is easy to see that WW needs to figure out a better way to make money, as I rarely see any of these members buying stuff. I think it is a good deal for me, and it would not matter to me if they changed lifetime as that has never been my goal but I can see how that would not feel right to lots of members.

J N

I have been a lifetime member since 1977! Off an on through having babies and life's ups and downs. Sounds like Lifetime is being thrown out since someone decided it didn't fit into their once again...new and improved program. I just talked my daughter into joining after Thanksgiving. The whole "wellness" focus isn't what she or I are interested in. Everything has gotten so "techy" and a real pain. We're going to just count calories and carbs with a fancy planner and do this on our own. Weighing in made a person accountable. It sounds like things have out grown the WW I remember and will miss. Change is NOT always for the better.

Tammy Williams-Lynch

I’m losing interest in WW due to meeting structure. It appears that the first 20 min is all about Leader telling personal stories to make us feel “warm and fuzzy”. Leaders are motivators, but not certified to be “life coaches”. We notice that very few awards are being given to our quite large group. WW you are going in the wrong direction! No more Lifetime status and I’m OUT.

Sue

I’m 10 pounds away from goal & then lifetime starts. If they take that away I can guarantee you that Weight Watchers or WW or whatever you want to change it to is going to go south real fast. I also agree that too much tech is not going to keep members but drive them away - I like the focus on wellness, but come on don’t be stupid here WW you will regret it!

Heidi

The trend towards psycho babble with the rebranding scares the bejeebers out of me. I listen carefully EACH week, and the trend to uncover deep feelings by untrained non professionals is going to have people having issues. What caused your eating issues to emerge? I now go only for wgt check, visit with friends, and zone out during the meetings. Yes, mtgs.

Elsbeth

Elsbeth's comment about non-professionals being able to affect members' emotions is indeed frightening. How would they handle the outcome. Surely WW should understand that this is a potential landmine for them- a law suit in the making if damage is done!

And Oprah makes money on her new food products asking us to buy so she can donate and, I assume, get a tax benefit from it all.

What a sham this whole thing has become - I'm delighted for those who find the new programme is helping them but, for me, the greed of both the company and Oprah in taking advantage by pushing a new pipe dream is, to me, unconsciousable

Jane

I agree... I'm lifetime and if the rules on that change I'm gone. I've maintained for over 4 yrs..I can do it without Oprah's liberal New Age propaganda. I will not spend a dime to make her richer for her liberal causes.

I don't need an employee of WW being my lifecoach. I have Jesus for that.

Linda D

For Jane: I am sure WW has a "release from liability" form that everyone must sign when signing up. They may be hiring professional counselors. It can't be any worse than the untrained people in charge now.And, why is corporate greed a surprise to anyone? That said, Oprah does a lot for charity.

IFortuna

I've been on this Weight Watchers program or 2 years, and I weigh pretty much the same as when I started.

I've lost a lot of money, but no weight, and losing weight is the sole reason that I go to Weight Watchers.

My present contract expires on December 12, and I'm outta there.

Time for me to get weight loss help elsewhere.

Travers Koerner

I feel like Oprah has sold herself out, and sold us out too, by investing in this program.

As far as I am concerned, she has lost all credibility.

Ms. G.

Hi IFortuna - I agree with all that you said - corporate greed is no surprise to me and I know that many othersfeel the same. It just becomes so common that it sickens and makes me fed up. As for Ophra's charitable work, it's,her own money that she uses and I do admire her for that. But she,'s asking us to buy her products to help others but it also benefits her personally and that's where I have the problem. I have causes that are important to me that I donate to and of course it provides a tax benefit to me personally - I assume the same would apply in the U.S.

In my mind, the two points that you raised are part and parcel of the overall corporate greed issue but the fact that you raised them made me stop and really think if mine was just a knee jerk reaction and I thank you for rattling my brain.

Jane

Jane

Linda D:

You had to go there, didn’t you? What do liberals and Oprah’s liberalism have to do with WW and weight loss? MANY of us believe in God, but we don’t inject our nasty comments into this discussion. Hatred and negativity have no place here. Shame 😡

Wendy

Where did the “no more free LTM” come from ?

Deb Rousseau

The saddest thing to me regarding eliminating free meetings for lifetime members who maintain their goal is that it DOESN'T Cost WW anything to keep it. So why in the World would they do away with it??? I guess because it is an incentive for people to make goal weight to stay within their goal and live a healthy life and in so doing they are NOT money makers for the company. In other words, they are not making money on you so they would prefer you to regain weight and come back as a "paying" member than to be an example of success. I don't see any other possible scenario than this. Really really sad.

Helen

Lifetime members don’t make financial contributions to WW, so the threat to walk away if the program is discontinued really does not make a financial impact in any way. Keeping the weight off because it garners a free membership is a good incentive but at times, it leads to an unhealthy lifestyle of starvation and extreme fasting to make the numbers on the scale acceptable. The new program gives us a chance to focus on wellness, feed our vitality, and embrace good health on every level. Change is good and WW usually plan things through very thoroughly prior to launch. Heading back to lose 75 pounds, so I am in for January 2019.

BiancaSelina

Bianca,

It's true --

Lifetime members may have minimal impact on WW's bottom line.

However, scrapping Lifetime comes with costs of its own.

Lifetime generated rock-solid loyalty and goodwill.

These are public relations gold.

Now, WW has traded that trust for 20 pieces of silver.

As a result, it has cashed out its credibility with thousands (if not millions) of members.

Was it worth it?

Ms. G.

I asked my leader and the receptionists. If they are getting rid of Lifetime, they don't know it. I understand it doesn't make them tons of money, but it does make them some. Buying products, recommending the program, etc. If they are switching the focus from weight loss to wellness, I don't know how they are going to add new lifetime members unless they have a goal weight. They can't really measure wellness, only taking people's words for it. Shrugs. Until they come out with it for sure, I'm not going to worry. I would just get trained as a receptionist or leader to be able to use etools. lol

Kelly Lynn

Some of you obviously have not read the above statement properly about lifetime membership. It's stated that its an opinion so all you who have not read it properly, go back and read again!

Dee Willis

Do you not consider what happens with lifetime membership seems like the biggest mistake any business can do. Trying to make changes and announcing the launch date without thinking anything through or planning. People are supposed to have patience with them while they continue to pay. They should make the meetings free until they’ve thought everything out

Betty

Having read the three comments which just arrived in my inbox, I'm becoming increasingly appalled at the snarkiness/unkindness in the way some response to others. No respect or willingness to see others' opinions as valid - just a negative comeback to those opinions expressed in an "are you stupid" kind of way. It saddens me that things have come to this when the basic reason for this is to support each other.

Jane

I think the program changes are exciting but as for the superficial changes such as the name changes, they are really just silly.

Lynn Mack

For Jane: I understand that certain dialogue is upsetting for you, however, it is honest dialogue representing what a hot button this issue is. Don't take it personally. I know that is hard but don the armor of humor and adopt the perception of being on the outside looking in. Just a suggestion. Weight Watchers is a huge corporation looking for a new demographic. I doubt they will listen to members of old. Bean counters guided them in the direction they are going. Just my opinions. Chin up. :)

IFortuna

For iFortuna Thanks for your response. Please be assured that I take none of the responses to which I was referring personally I always enjoy hearing from you, both the points you make and the tone with which you make them. And since you're pretty much the only person I hear from, there's absolutely nothing on this site for me to take personally!!

And I think I've mentioned before that I really appreciate the chance you give me to give my mind a rattle to give my own beliefs a review. A sort of "now why do I think that" exercise!

I was on the debating team at school many years ago and was taught that the point you made was to be made with respect for the other side without attacking them personally - just because your opinion differs from mine doesn't make me a nitwit. It's that tone which saddens me on a site which is supposed to be supportive to us.

And please don't worry - the chin is up!!

Jane

Jane

I am still unhappy with the “why” equation of digging deep for the cause of your obesity. It is not just because you ate too much. That “why” could be an emotional trauma and resultant fat a wall you built to protect yourself.

Also a person does not have to be at goal wgt to work for WW. Just to have lost 10% of starting wgt. In one mtg I attend a man lost 270 lbs, and I truly am happy for him. But he is still clinically obese. He is a weigher. NO, NO!

Elsbeth

Ridiculous I go to weight watchers to lose weight what is wrong with the word weight? Everything is now is so politically correct. This is the last straw I’m leaving I have kept with their changes for years but now no I’m done. I know so many other members feel the same . We go to WW or what ever you now call it to lose weight you want to meditate fine but WW is not the place. The WW I knew is gone and so am I what a pity. Why fix what is not broken? BIG BIG MISTAKE WHAT A SHAME

Donn

I HATE all the changes PERIOD.

Why can’t they leave a great program alone?

I will never return. I will find a new program that focuses on weight loss!!

Elizabeth

If the new WW takes away talking about weight loss, I'm out. That's like saying that AA will stop talking about the struggle to keep sober, and instead will now talk about how UNHEALTHY it is. While it is perfectly sensible to encourage the healthy side, people with addictions want to TALK about that addiction. We who attend WW do so primarily because of food addiction. If the leader..oh, excuse me..HEALTH Coach...discourages talking about successful weight loss, that's making me feel bad about caring about weight loss. Political correctness here we come. But I won't.

Lisa Brown

There is nothing wrong with the word weight. We still talk about weight loss in our meeting or workshop. It's still a focus. Food is still a focus, especially overeating. I honestly don't see much of a change other than I write down my weight now. I don't think this is about being PC. It's about trying to attract new members in a different way. I don't think many people will join just for healthy habits though. I think people will join if they want to lose weight. But if it doesn't work for you anymore, find what works for you. You are important and your health is important!

Kelly Lynn

Well put, Kelly Lynn! I am there for weight loss and I also do not think that people will join solely for healthy habits - weight loss will still be the reason. I am glad, though, that they are highlighting a more rounded approach in that taking care of yourself in other ways is key to succeeding. But, like Kelly says, you have to do what works for you. Happy New Year, everyone!

Dolores

I haven't returned yet, so of course will see when I do. We have always talked about weight in the context of health as well. But it was still about the struggle with food, because I'd say 80% of WW attendees are not ignorant about what is healthy and what is not..wait..are you saying now WE write down our weight and WW won't be tracking and no kudos for weight loss success in meetings? I think they are ditching a proven formula but we'll see...

Lisa Brown

@Lisa Brown they keep track of our weight on their computers or tablets, but we write it down in the book. They say it's going to save time, but they have to show us our weight so we can write it down because a lot of people don't want their weights said out loud. If you have etools and go to meetings, it should automatically change on your account for you. You still get kudos if you bring it up :). And I agree. We know what's healthy and what's not. But knowing is the easy part lol

Kelly Lynn

Thanks for the support, Kelly and Delores. The thing is, I first started WW in about 1975...Jean was still doing talk shows and showing up at meetings. The whole approach to supporting weight loss was new, and was indeed, like AA for folks looking for weight loss partners, other people who could relate. " I KNOW, I can't eat just ONE chip either!" And members would give their suggestions and ideas. After nearly 45 years of stopping, starting, changing, improving the program, I am more likely to follow it than ever before. There is nothing..NOTHING..out there like the WW program. And the wellness aspect has been incorporated for many many years now. Our leader is a talented, encouraging, funny, smart person who has always been about health as the most important goal at meetings. But if they make this program NOT about weight loss first, they will lose thousands and thousands of people. Not to mention leaders. What appears to have happened is that corporate has perfected the actual core program to the point where it needs no big tweaks, so they need to make some change just because. Someone had the bright idea to focus on wellness INSTEAD of weight loss. And, I'm guessing that someone is unlikely to have struggled with weight for 50 years. Being inclusive, as I've mentioned, is great. But this program speaks to people who struggle with weight first. Just as AA speaks primarily to the struggle for sobriety, NA speaks primarily to the struggle with drugs and Al Anon helps those who cope with loved ones who struggle. I want to go to meetings of like minded people who KNOW what it feels like to want to eat a whole pie. Sorry, my personal body image will never be ok if I'm 50 pounds overweight, AND can run a mile. Or do 50 situps. For me, there IS no other method like WW, which lets me be accountable somewhere besides my own head. I'm hoping I'm wrong, and the changes won't be that drastic.

Lisa Brown

@Lisa Brown You should be able to sit in at least one meeting without paying to see if you like it. I haven't really noticed much of a change. I'm lifetime and really struggling to get back to goal. I don't feel motivated, but going to the meetings does help me because I see other people struggling with food too. Still the same group of people. I don't think much will change. If people want to adopt health habits, I can't see them paying a fee to WW. Even if a couple of people join for that reason, they still will bring some good information and insights. I don't think it will be the focus though. Time will tell! I like the idea of all around wellness, but for me, it's definitely about the weight. But whatever you choose, you'll always have support on here!

Kelly Lynn

I am a former WW leader. I lost 50lbs in '85, and in '86 became a leader. I worked for them until 1998. I have maintained my weight loss for a longtime because of my Lifetime membership , if they take it away I am gone in a NY minute. There is no honor in the WW word anymore! Would you trust a company who has been lying to you forover 50 years. I started WW on Long Island as A 18 year old . I met Jean Nietich ....she will be rolling over in her grave if they do that to us. WW will crumble and its Memberships dwindle to nothing. Lifetime Members should unite and boycott WW. I hope someone with money has the nerve to take them to court and sue the you know what out of them! Lifetime members lets Unite! Corporate Greed will kill them if they want to throw us under the bus!

Edna Allotta

I hate the New WW. I have been an off and on member for 40 yrs.The new philosophy is too Kumbaya. I go to lose weight. Last week I sat next to someone in the "work shop" with the "wellness Coach" The person I sat next to may have weighed 100 lbs soaking wet. She looked anorexic. I know she needs coaching to eat better but I didn't want her in my meeting - sorry "workshop" I think Weight Watchers is trying to change a program that wasn't broken. Jeanne is probably turning over in her grave.

Tennie Skladanowski

I have on again and off again been a member. I was just thinking about joining again. Im not sure now dang.

stella rebello

I absolutely abhor the new “vision”.

1. No celebrations. Come on now, they are fun. You do not have to participate.

2. “Kumbaya” is an excellent description of the current trend.

3. Going far too “deep” psychlogically as to our why. These staff are not trained therapists and may trigger something.

4. Staff wgts. I do not care if you have already lost “X” number of pounds, I want staff to be at a healthy wgt. Period.

Mrs B.

For those of you upset with Oprah, she sold out and Kate Hudson is the new face of WW. In the news in case you missed it.

IFortuna

Ifor,
That surprised me.
I looked it up on Google.

It sounds like Kate has joined the team, but Oprah has not sold her shares,

Ms. G.

No celebrations. Bull ****!

So, I visited other mtgs and found one which still does them. I happened, last week, to be sitting next to the woman doing an evaluation of the leader. Yes, leader. Told her, look at this group, they are loving the celebrations. Send that up the corporate ladder.

I do not care if you have lost 150#, if you are still not near your healthy goal weight, you should not be on staff.

Love the mtgs, but when they turn into therapy sessions (or to quote one ldr, “ making yourself vulnerable”), you lose me.

I seriously doubt if the company will change, they have invested too much money. We shall see.

Mrs B.

So far, the big difference in our meeting has been the lingo."WW" instead of Weight Watchers.."workshops" instead of meetings, "Health Coach" instead of leader...and she spoke about lifetime folks and group loss...We'll see how it goes...I think it's a stupid idea, and I'm betting it goes back...

Lisa Brown

There has been some biteback on less celebrations. Not much, yet. But people are speaking up. So bring it up in your mtg, say you want to celebrate!

This area I am in (north of Seattle) is having Open Houses next week (numbers are down percentage-wise for this time period).

Following the Open Houses, will be Wine Tasting. Of the new Censi wine. Fewer points. WW related.

The company cuts crap additives out of the high salt products in mtg room, and now endorses a brand of wine. Been told not sold in mtg rooms. Whoopie do.

Mrs B

Can I use my lifetime membership? Is there a benefit. I earned a lifetime membership in 1993. I haven't been able to use it in recent years because no matter what I do (and I have a will of iron), I cannot get back to goal weight. Can I still use my lifetime membership in some way?

Rebekah

Find it strange people are upset by name change as most people have referred to it at WW, but what concerns me is they still want people to use low fat & non fat which most of the time have higher sugar content not to mention a number of chemicals that can't even be pronounced. Allowing free fruit with high fructose, regardless of myth of "natural sugar" the body still sees it as sugar...why do you think that diabetic educators suggest avoiding high glycemic foods i.e.ones with sugars, carbs like beans, pasta etc which convert to glucose and result in viseral fat( unhealthy belly fat & fatty liver) With so much research & scientific evidence to the contrary of WW I can't understand them not making changes to take these findings into consideration.

Kathy

@Kathy on 2/5 - I think you are spot on. New findings may call for new changes.

IFortuna

I don't know anyone who ever actually called Weight Watchers 'WW'...we WROTE it in reference to Weight Watchers. The new program is eliminating the fake stuff as best they can, but folks like me, who have been with WW on and off for many many years, mostly love this program now. All kinds of foods we had to 'count' in the past, we have 'free' now. We are, of course, reminded that you can't ever eat unlimited amounts. But in the past we might choose pasta over fruit because it counted and we wanted the pasta more. Also, fruit can help curb a craving for something far less healthy with sugar. Pie, cookies, cheesecake...there is little debate about which would be better for our body...

I personally don't bother with low or no fat substitutes. I feel fine using butter and counting it because I have no points foods I can also have now. Poached eggs are my all time favorite. With Dave's Thin Seed Bread, I have a 7 point breakfast that sticks with me. And if I have no points at days end, that orange or apple is a nice treat. I think WW is on the wrong track with the attempt to pretend it's for anyone, heavy or not, who wants to get healthy. WW, AA, NA...these are all programs for addicts, and I can't imagine AA opening their arms to drinkers who,just "want to cut down"!! We'll see....

Lisa Brown

Your comment about WW still giving services to Lifetime members but not getting paid.....they get tons of free advertising/referrals from Lifetime members. So yes, they are getting paid.

My opinion on their changes..they need to stop. seriously, they need to go back to the original version. And calling it WW...sounds weird to say I'm going to WW meeting. Oh sorry, workshop. That actually sounds weird to. Ugh. Enough on the changes.

Patti

It's interesting when taklking with friends we have always used the acronym of WW so I didn't see the change any big deal. Acronyms are used all the time such as tv, CBC, NBC or in Toronto the transit system is TTC.

Kathy GILCHRIST

I agree entirely with Patti. Dropping the iconic name name Weight Watchers was a HUGE mistake. "WW" is *not* a true acronym because it doesn't stand for anything (as does NBC). I've always used "WW" in the past, but only in writing, never in speech, and it stood for Weight Watchers.

Andrew Planck

Absolutely never said, "Double-u Double-u." It's easier to say the three-syllable Weight Watchers than the six-syllable Double-u Double-u. Writing it, yes, but pronouncing it? I've never heard it.

Cyndy

If Lifetime goes away, I go away.

Malinda

I read all the comments and I am a new "trial" member in WW, although I was a member nearly 50 years ago and twice again at work in recent years. I have only 10-15 pounds to lose but I am new to my town and wanted to meet people. I have a few observations to add: the name has likely changed because WW realized it has to market to a different base. More and more employers are trying to reduce health care costs. My company allowed us to join Weight Watchers for six weeks in exchange for a reduced deductable and co-pay on our group health insurance. These kinds of programs are becoming a HUGE part of corporate benefits planning, and generally do save money on group health insurance costs. WW wants in on that action; it is a LOT of potential income. Our company had a dozen different meetings in different places and times. On the other hand, as many have pointed out, a lot of local meetings are lifetimers - no income there - and retired people, a naturally shrinking base. So I think that marketing shift is why we see the name change, program changes and potentially loss of "lifetime" membership. WW is trading retired lifers for the lucrative corporate business. I can't find fault with that as a business model. As for changes, I am not fond of the new 2019 Freestyle and all the zero points items. I think that concept will fail or be seriously tweaked soon. I liked Smart Points Plus the best - as I recall, it subtracted fiber from carbs but still assigned points for fruit and veggies which, afterall, DO have carbs. I don't like the dairy points at all. I make a point of eating full fat dairy as I do think it's healthy (I am a fan of modest keto as well and only eat meat twice a week). But using 1/3 of my points for milk in my coffee at breakfast is ridiculous! There are a lot of health benefits to full fat dairy, perhaps more than for low fat or fat free dairy, so I definately think they need to rework that. And add points for fruit again because it's high in sugar and well, sugar is sugar regardless of the source.

Barbara

Dont take LT away! That would be the end for Weight watchers ! Big motivator for most of us in the Lifetimers club!

Linda

Taking away lifetime from people who already earned it would cause a lawsuit, and yes that can be done . I have thought all of the changes this time have been the THE biggest mistake they’ve ever made . I could write a book here, but I won’t. I know they change plans sometimes, but this time the HUGE change to the whole company is an epic fail. This is my opinion and just sit back and watch what happens.

Melissa

I want to become a WW lifetime member. That is my goal. If that’s going away I may as well quit going to meeting now and sign up on line (save $) to use the app toget to my goal weight.

Personally, I have no desire to receive gifts that I’ll never use.

However, I do like the reward charms. I look forward to each one along my path to weight loss. They do give me something to look forward to. I just wish they had some between 25 & 50 lbs, and even after that for people who have lots to lose.

Dore

Lifetime membership actually provides WW with ongoing free marketing from the best source you could ask which is successful members. So shame on anyone who doesn’t see the benefits of both parties. All the lifetime members will simply disappear and new members won’t see the lessons, motivation and inspiration they provide. And they do continue to inspire and encourage members, don’t underestimate their value. This will be a big loss on both sides IMO. But mostly for ww because people will find somewhere else to go. So it’s not like they don’t get huge benefits from these members. I bet anyone who says that’s not valued in their mission and affect to their bottom line isn’t there long because it’s a short sided penny pinching and can I say greedy and selfish vision.

Stephanie

The worst WW plan ever. I went on it several times and immediately cancelled within an hour and got a refund. This plan is nothing like their best plans back in the day. This is easily their worst plan. There's no structure. At all. Eating anything off the zero points list costs you like half of your points for the day.

I was on Jenny Craig for about five days. I went off that diet for several reasons. Nevertheless, I signed up for WW but still had Jenny Craig food left over. So I figured I would track those foods in WW. This is what happened. I tracked my JC breakfast, JC snack and JC lunch in WW. All of my points for the day were completely used up in WW. I had no more points to use for the rest of the day! BUT I was allowed to eat three more times that day on JC.

In short, I was starving on WW. Am I supposed to only eat chicken, beans, and eggs for the rest of the day? How does eating 8 oz of chicken equal zero points?

Seriously, bring back the WW where everything had points. That is what gave people structure with that diet. WW has no structure anymore. Dieters need structure or they end up overeating.

Terrible plan. Needs a total makeover. I will never join WW again until that happens.

Bill Pepe

Oprah needs to go on WW herself

She was on Ellen today and made 3 of her. Thunder thighs and huge all over

Anita

I am not, not have ever been, an Oprah fan.

That said, your comment about her size was rude, cruel, and uncalled for.

You think she does not know she is overweight?

Think before commenting.

Samantha

I agree, way too harsh. We all know when we've gained, and it hurts. And when you are that famous. It's even more painful to be in the public eye when you gain. We are ALL Foodaholics. And just like other addicts, we aren't perfect. And like MOST of us, Oprah is likely to go up and down forever. Be kind

Lisa

Since ww offer was for a lifetime once reaches and maintains goal, don’t know how they can call it a relic of the past, it was a commitment they made and a legal obligation. A class action suit sounds in order,

Betty