Fresh & Fit brings fitness, nutrition and support to those who need it most

Emma Avila, epackard1@iuhealth.org, writer for IU Health’s Metro Region

IU Health’s free Fresh & Fit program helps underserved community members in Hamilton and Hendricks counties build healthier lives by removing barriers to fitness, nutrition and preventive care.

IU Health is a nonprofit health system dedicated to improving the health and quality of life in the communities we serve across Indiana. In Hamilton and Hendricks counties, the free Fresh & Fit program is one way that commitment comes to life—combining fitness, nutrition, education and health screenings to help community members build healthier habits.

Measurable impact

Last year, 76 participants were selected for the 10-week program. Eligibility is based on factors such as current health status, household size, income, weekly food budget and a commitment to fully participate. All participants identified needs related to social determinants of health, including limited access to fitness and nutrition resources.

Throughout the program, participants saw meaningful improvements:

• 360 total pounds lost

• 74% improved blood pressure

• 61% improved LDL cholesterol levels

• 75% of those who were diabetic or pre-diabetic lowered their A1C

Since the program launched in 2018 at IU Health Fishers, North and West hospitals, nearly 600 community members have completed Fresh & Fit at no cost to them, collectively losing more than 6,300 pounds while reducing hypertension risk and improving numerous health indicators.

These outcomes reflect the program’s focus on both prevention and long-term health management.

Removing barriers

Now in its eighth year, the 10-week program focuses on supporting those who need it most. This is the third year it will focus exclusively on underserved communities and those with limited access to fitness and preventive care.

Caitlin Vendely and Krystle Barber, community outreach consultants for the IU Health Metro Region, recognize this was an important shift.

“Fresh & Fit is an important program for our underserved community members because often, participants cannot afford healthy foods, fitness programs or other resources needed to live healthy lives,” explains Barber.

“Many community members lack access to programs that help promote these lifestyle factors, whether it’s due to high costs, lack of transportation or any number of reasons,” Vendely adds. “That’s why IU Health developed the free Fresh & Fit program, to remove these barriers so community members have the opportunity to create healthy lifestyles through fitness and nutrition, regardless of circumstances that may otherwise hinder involvement.”

Support that continues

Fresh & Fit combines workouts, nutrition education, health screenings and ongoing motivation to support meaningful lifestyle changes, focusing on practical tools participants can use long after the 10 weeks end.

“Chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart conditions, are among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in the United States,” says Vendely. “Fortunately, there are many lifestyle factors that can reduce one’s risk for chronic disease and improve management of existing conditions.”

After completing the program, participants are invited to attend follow-up health screenings and events, helping them stay accountable and track their progress over time. They also continue to have access to 50 virtual fitness classes offered by certified trainers and the daily lessons introduced during the program.

“Fresh & Fit provides community members with the tools to manage and prevent chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension while building lifelong healthy habits,” Barber explains. “It’s incredible to see people taking steps toward a healthier life.”

Applications for Fresh & Fit 2026 will open in August. To learn more, visit iuhealth.org/fresh-fit.