Keeping Fit Without Spending A Lot

“Despite new year's resolutions to get in shape, people have been less willing to fork over a monthly payment for a place to work out in these tough economic times. But Sandra Endo tells us how people can stay fit on a budget, without heading to a gym, and in some cases without ever leaving home. Many people turn to gyms to lose weight but with the slumping economy, many gyms are losing members. ‘All retailers are going through the same economic time right now,’ said Bally's Fitness General Manager William Spencer. The International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association says gyms nationwide saw memberships drop in recent years. They're hoping things will improve. Typically, gyms see a membership boom in January, and this year many gyms are hoping special deals will help pump up business. A gym membership is a waste of money if you pay but don't end up going. Some people are resorting to feeling the right type of burn without burning a hole in their wallets, exercising at home to get fit. Household items can help you flex your muscles and get a better workout. Fitness experts say getting in shape is all about how much you commit to your goal, whether you want to pay a gym or work out at home. ‘Just the environment of seeing other people doing what you know you need to do, can help a lot of people stay going for the new year,’ Spencer said. ‘It has to be small enough to be doable, when people have these huge goals, most likely they fail,’ said personal trainer Angel Stone. The biggest challenge isn't working up a sweat, it's being consistent. Doing it without hurting your bottom line will help you stay on track with your economic diet.”

http://abclocal.go.com/wjrt/story?section=news/consumer&id=6582434