Duke program helps people lose weight

“I like the idea of a wellness program, not just exercise in a gym. I wanted to take advantage of the nutritional counseling,” Frazier said.

Lose to Live is a 12-week course that includes fitness testing, exercise programming, nutrition counseling and stress management. For $240, the program offers to help people lose one pound a week.

Registered dietitian Dena Lowry said the program isn't focused on weight loss alone.

“We focus on inches, strength, endurance, frame of mind, attitude. So we cover all nine yards,” Lowry said.

The program begins with changing a person’s eating habits. Lowry said most clients aren't eating enough fruits and vegetables. She recommends between five and nine servings of fruits and vegetables a day.

Before starting the program almost two years ago, Kathy Gunter thought losing weight meant eating less.

“I was overwhelmed by the amount of food that was on my plate, that nine out of 10 times I wasn't able to finish,” Gunter said.

It was more food, but healthier food. Gunter also made exercise an enjoyable habit.

“The exercise has helped me to lose the 50 pounds that I've lost all total,” Gunter said.

Frazier, whose long-term weight loss goal is 50 pounds, believes she'll get there with the help of diet and exercise experts and access to this wellness center's facilities and various classes.

“I particularly like to be able to talk with someone practically every day and talk about what I'm doing right, what I'm doing wrong, what I need to change. That's very helpful,” Frazier said.