OBJECTIVE: To test the efficacy of a weight loss intervention designed to appeal to men. METHODS: A randomized trial tested the efficacy of the Rethinking Eating and FITness (REFIT) weight loss program compared to a wait-list control. The 6-month intervention was delivered via two face-to-face sessions followed by Internet contacts. REFIT encouraged participants to create calorie deficits by making six 100-calorie changes to their eating daily while increasing physical activity, and the program encouraged customization through selection of specific diet strategies evaluated each week. RESULTS: Participants (n = 107, 44.2 years, 31.4 kg/m2, 76.6% white) were randomized into the study, and 90.6% provided data at 6 months. REFIT participants lost 25.0 kg (95% CI 26.1 to 23.9) at 3 months, which was maintained through 6 months (25.3 kg, 95% CI 26.5 to 24.2); this was greater than the control group (p < 0.001; 6 months: 20.6, 95% CI 21.8 to 0.5). More REFIT participants (49%) achieved a 5% weight loss than control participants (19%; OR 9.4; 95% CI 3.2 to 27.4). An average of 11.2 (62.7) of 13 of the online intervention contacts were completed. CONCLUSIONS: The novel REFIT intervention produced clinically significant weight losses. This approach holds promise as an alternative to traditional behavioral therapy for men.

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