Trying to plan a vacation? How does this sound? Ranch at live oak5:30 a.m.: Wake up

5:45 a.m.: Yoga 7 a.m.: Breakfast 8 a.m.: 12-mile hike 1 p.m.: Lunch 2 p.m.: Nap 3 p.m.: Exercise class 4 p.m.: Exercise class 5 p.m.: Yoga 6 p.m.: Massage 7 p.m.: Dinner 8 p.m.: Sleep

“Lack of money is no obstacle. Lack of an idea is an obstacle.” That’s the motto on the pillow of each guest doing the Ranch at Live Oak cleanse in Malibu, California. Which is only $800 per day, using a 1500 calorie  restrictive mealplan. The Wall Street Journal’s Christina Binkley went to the ranch for 7 days to lose weight. At the ranch, she and other guests became involved in its strict near-starvation regimen. Prior to their arrival at the ranch, they are encouraged to do a detox, however most guests do not do this. Christina found the “vacation” to be effective (She had lost 6½ pounds, 1¾ inches from her lower legs and 1½ inches from her waist). She also reported that months later, she’s continued to keep it off. Whether or not this actually works, doesn’t it seem ridiculous to pay to starve yourself? It’s not like paying for a personal trainer, where you pay for the discipline and expertise of a professional. For weight loss, there have been instances where 1500 calories per day is recommended instead of the 2000 standard. However, with the 12 mile hike and continuous exercise and yoga classes, it doesn’t seem healthy at all. The program also doesn’t take into account things such as body weight, individual nutritional needs and special caloric requirements – everyone is on the same exact plan. Doesn’t really seem safe. I could honestly think of thousands of other things to do with $800 than exercise and be hungry all day.

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