Chico State has a fitness program for students that strays away from the traditional set diet and exercise plan.

FitU, established in 2009 by the nutrition and kinesiology department, takes a holistic approach on healthy eating and fitness. The eight- to 10-week program consists of weekly appointments with either a nutrition or physical activity mentor.

The nutrition sessions are based on a non-diet approach that focus on forming healthier relationships with food, while the exercise sessions identify strategies to increase overall fitness.

One of the main priorities of FitU is for students to understand that achieving a healthy lifestyle is an ongoing process and does not happen overnight.

Laura Curtis, a registered dietitian and director of FitU, sees their program as the Adulting 101 of eating and activities. According to her, students should not feel bad or guilty about eating certain foods. Their goal is to help clients develop enjoyable and lifelong sustainable activity, so they can balance school with personal well-being.

“It’s not a program in the sense that it has a one size fits all approach, instead it has an individualized approach” Curtis said.

FitU uses motivational techniques as a way to help students feel more comfortable with their bodies and lifestyles.

Carla Perez, one of the mentors at FitU, provides support to her clients by reminding them the definition of a healthy lifestyle varies from person to person.

“It is in our name “FitU,” what is healthy and fitting for you,” Perez said.

Perez appreciates the change she makes within her clients and hopes they continue living a healthier lifestyle.

“Well for me it’s something very special and unique, it’s an amazing and rewarding experience that I’ve been treasuring since last semester,” Perez said. “I get to really make an impact on someone’s life, and that brings me so much joy. FitU is a way that I can leave a mark here on campus.”

The program costs $50, but individuals that complete the program without any absences receive $25 back.

Although, the program is already booked for the fall semester, they are currently taking applications for the spring.

For more information on FitU stop by Yolo Hall 258, contact [email protected] or sign up online.

Yaritza Ayon can be reached at [email protected] or @ayon_yaritza on Twitter.