United Services is proud to offer InSHAPE –  an  evidenced-based fitness and nutrition program designed specifically for individuals diagnosed with a serious mental health disorder.  One of the unique features of InSHAPE is that services are provided by a certified personal trainer/wellness coach.

InSHAPE was developed at Monadnock Family Services in Keene, New Hampshire by their CEO, Ken Jue, as a response to the public health concern that individuals with mental illness die 25 – 30 years earlier than individuals in the general population.  This is largely due to a prevalence of obesity which puts people at a higher risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.  We have been fortunate to have Ken as a trainer and we are appreciative of his ongoing mentorship.

The components of InSHAPE are:

• An individualized fitness and healthy lifestyle assessment
• Weekly meetings with the Wellness Coach who assists with developing an InSHAPE fitness plan consisting of fitness and nutrition goals
• Free membership for one year at a local fitness facility
• Exercise classes and healthy eating activities
• Motivational celebrations

InSHAPE tracks the following outcomes to monitor progress:

• BMI (Body Mass Index)
• Blood Pressure
• Waist Circumference
• The distance the participant can walk in 6 minutes

Participants have seen remarkable progress as a result of their efforts to modify their lifestyle.  In addition to significant weight loss, people have increased their activity level outside of the program and have reported positive effects on their overall health and general sense of well-being.

Program Managers: Janet Pusczynski

Funding for this program is provided by the CT Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS).