TRAVERSE CITY, MI -- Health clubs around Traverse City are packed with people trying to get fit in the New Year.
Gym managers say they always see an increase in members this time of year.
“It’s definitely an increase. On a daily rate we probably see about 400 people come in this time of year, where as the summer we will have about 200 people come in,” said Premier Health and Fitness Manager Tim Frankhouse.
The increase is no surprise. However, it is hard to keep people motivated to workout throughout the year. Fitness trainers said people should set realistic goals that keep them eager to return to the gym.
“Goal setting gives you a finish line. It gives you a place where you know you want to end up so that you are driving toward that goal. That is why it’s important to make them small and not real big goals. Don't look at the 40 pound weight loss...just look at the 5 pounds in January…5 pounds in February,” said Fitness Factor Manager Dale Carpenter.
While goal setting is important, health clubs also recommend switching up your routine so you don’t get board when you workout.
“You want to keep it fresh. You don't want to do the same workout over and over again because after a while it is going to get old and you will loose interest,” Frankhouse said.
Working out with a partner is also recommended. Knowing someone else is going to the gym with you decreases the chances of you skipping out, fitness trainers said.
