Core curriculum.
The lifestyle intervention commenced with a 16-session core curriculum that was to be completed within the first 24 weeks after randomization. The 16-session core curriculum was the most structured phase of the DPP lifestyle intervention and ensured that all participants were taught the same basic information about nutrition, physical activity, and behavioral self-management (Table 2). Similar to other state-of-the-art behavioral weight control programs, the first eight sessions presented the goals for the DPP lifestyle intervention, taught fundamental information about modifying energy intake and increasing energy output, and helped participants to self-monitor their intake and physical activity.