Lifestyle management programs are closely linked to the concept of health promotion, which is “the process of enabling people to increase control over, and to improve, their health.”

Based on this, a lifestyle management program is defined as a structured, action-oriented health promotion initiative designed to help individuals improve their health, reduce health risks and promote healthy behaviors.

Lifestyle management programs can target a range of different health concerns and areas, such as physical activity, stress, smoking, and nutrition.  They are used in a variety of different settings, however most commonly in workplaces and community or public health initiatives.