Loyola’s Student Involvement has a new program for the spring semester to help students get in shape and learn new workout techniques.

The Get Fit Pledge offers classes throughout the semester open to all students and faculty members who have signed up for the pledge. Classes include self-defense fighting classes, wellness bike ride excursions, body weight workouts, and others.

Megan Byas, Loyola fitness coordinator, started the Get Fit Pledge program and is responsible for coordinating the classes. Byas said the pledge is one of a kind this semester because Loyola does not offer any similar programs.

“The Get Fit Pledge is important to everyone affiliated with Loyola because it is a simple incentive and motivator to help you stay committed to physical activity throughout the semester,” Byas said.

Krav Maga is a system of survival that involves self-defense fighting and personal safety techniques. Instructors from Triumph Krav Maga, a local company that teaches these techniques, came to Loyola to teach self-defense fighting classes as part of the pledge.

Adam Watts, Krav Maga instructor, said he believes that physical fitness is an important aspect for students and all people.

“Being in good physical condition is incredibly important. Your brain will work better, you’ll live longer, and you’ll be happier,” Watts said.

Jaima Young, psychology freshman, is an active member of the pledge. She signed up for the pledge to expand her workout routine. Young said the pledge has helped her maintain physical fitness and has taught her new workout techniques.

“Loyola should definitely continue to host programs like the Get Fit Pledge. If it weren’t for the pledge, I wouldn’t have known there were group exercise classes or that they would be so much fun,” Young said.

All Loyola students and faculty members are able to sign up for the pledge online and then retrieve their Get Fit punch card at the Office of Student Involvement in the lower level of the Danna Center. Signing up is free and pledges must bring their punch card with them to attend the free classes.