What to Pay for Weight-Loss Coaching

If weight loss is a priority, finding professional help can be a good investment. The cost of weight-loss coaching can vary greatly based on the type of professional you choose to work with. A nutritionist can help with your diet, while a personal trainer will focus on your exercise routine. Fortunately, weight-loss help is available at a variety of price points.

Online Support

• It's easy to find information about losing weight online, but websites where you sign up to be a member may provide more motivation. Many dieting sites offer tracking programs where you input your daily caloric intake and the activities you do. Some sites offer forums that allow you to interact with others, including weight-loss professionals and other individuals trying to lose weight.

  Some weight-loss membership sites are free because they are supported by advertisements. Others offer their services for a nominal charge, usually less than $20 per month. It's important to note, though, that the information you find on these Web sites is typically not personalized, but rather is general information. However, some find this type of weight-loss coaching to be helpful and effective.

Nutritionists

• A nutritionist will look at your diet, determine how many calories you should be eating to lose weight and help you create a meal plan. Look for a nutritionist that has specialized training in nutrition, either a certified nutritionist or a registered dietitian. Beware of those who call themselves nutritionists but really are trying to sell you supplements.

  The cost of a clinical nutritionist or registered dietitian may be covered by your health insurance plan. In that case, you pay your usual co-pay amount. If your insurance doesn't cover this, or you want to visit a specialist that is not within your network, it may cost between $50 and $175 per hour or more.

Personal Trainers

• A personal trainer will focus on your exercise plan, recommending cardio exercises and weight training to help you create the body you want. Some personal trainers also have training in nutrition and can make recommendations about your diet.

  If you are a member of a gym, it may offer personal-training packages at a discount. In 2009, they typically were less than $50 per hour. Otherwise, the cost of a personal trainer is usually between $60 and $80 per hour. You may be able to reduce the amount that you personally pay by encouraging a friend to join you, splitting the cost of the personal trainer as well as his time.