Fine, Fit, and Fabulous

Diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions in many underserved communities. In the southwest Bronx, 16 percent of residents have been diagnosed with the condition in comparison to 9 percent city-wide. However, much of this could be prevented if at risk individuals adopt healthier eating and exercise habits. To address this issue in the church, Bronx Health REACH partnered with a faith-based health coordinator to design a 12 week diabetes prevention program. Fine, Fit and Fabulous teaches nutrition and fitness within a spiritual context using group discussions and exercise sessions. Participants are also assigned a buddy or group to provide support in achieving exercise and nutrition goals.

Fine, Fit and Fabulous is one of Bronx Health REACH’s most successful and popular programs. To date, close to 500 individuals from 22 churches have participated in the program, resulting in an average weight loss of 4.6 pounds per participant. Lessons learned from Fine, Fit and Fabulous are now being used to create a support program for diabetes management.