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Home > Questions About Joining TOPS?

Questions About Joining TOPS?

Are you thinking about joining TOPS? Do you have questions about membership, weight-loss philosophy and more? Learn how TOPS can help you on your weight-loss journey.

What is TOPS?

TOPS Club, Inc. is a nonprofit weight-loss education and support organization. Our members refer to us simply as TOPS, which stands for Take Off Pounds Sensibly. We focus on developing healthy lifestyles through weight management and sponsor research aimed at finding the root cause and effective treatment of the disease of obesity.

TOPS Club Inc. is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

Who can join TOPS?

Virtually everyone is welcome. TOPS is available to men, women and children from age 7 to 100+. 

 

Is it okay to join TOPS if I already belong to another weight-loss group or health club or if I am purchasing meals or meal substitutes or following another diet?

Yes. TOPS provides a supportive, encouraging, and caring environment and knows that many people need additional assistance with the difficult challenge of weight management. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

 

What makes TOPS different from other weight-loss organizations?

TOPS helps our members make changes that promote good health and last a lifetime – not for just a few short weeks – in behaviors, attitudes, exercise habits and eating. We sell no food products and accept no advertising from commercial companies. We empower volunteers who share similar weight issues to help each other with supportive materials and educational tools.

How will I know when I've reached a healthy weight?

After joining TOPS, members consult with their doctor or other healthcare provider at their next regular visit (no special appointment required). Together, you and your doctor decide on a healthy, reasonable weight-loss goal for you, and he or she writes that goal on a prescription pad or clinic stationary that you turn in to your weight recorder.

 

What does TOPS do for me after I lose weight?

TOPS has a robust recognition program to reward and honor people for maintaining weight through time. Members who have reached their goal weight become KOPS (Keep Off Pounds Sensibly) members and are an inspiration to others who are still trying to lose. TOPS has many KOPS members who have lost and kept off their weight for 20, 30, 40, or even 50 years or more!

 

What do I get with my annual TOPS membership?

TOPS offers a variety of membership packages to fit your budget and interests. All packages come with your choice of in-person or online meetings. See details.

Where does my TOPS membership fee go?

The bulk of your membership fee is used to develop and provide the best educational materials and support for you in your weight-loss journey. A small percentage is devoted to medical research that helps forward our understanding of obesity and related diseases and to develop treatments, and someday, a cure.

 

How do I start my own TOPS chapter?

Just get together four people (including you) to start a TOPS chapter. TOPS provides you with a packet of free materials to help you get started. Keep reading for information about who to contact.

 

Can I talk to a real person for more information?

Call TOPS Headquarters at 800-932-8677 Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Central Time for chapter meeting locations and times and referrals to local Field Staff.

 

Need Additional Help?

Email support only. Contact technical support at helpdesk@tops.org.