Consumer Catharsis

“Although opportunities abound for those looking to save a buck, ‘millions of consumers have literally lost their entire incomes,’ said Michael Solomon, professor of marketing and director of the Center for Consumer Research at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia. ‘And those who aren't directly affected by the recession—the ones who haven't lost their jobs—are still being affected by what they're reading and seeing on TV everyday. It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.’ How to cope? Heading to the gym is gaining in popularity. U.S. health club membership increased 1.7 percent last year, said Rosemary Lavery, a spokeswoman for the International Health, Racquet, and Sportsclub Association. ‘Gym members with existing memberships are using them, even more so, to get the most value and justify the price,’ she also said. ‘Numerous studies that show people who work out are happier.’ Club owners and operators are "saying to their members, 'We know it's tough, but you can't compromise your health.' New York-based Equinox Fitness Clubs has seen a spike in daily visits. "Our usage is up almost 20 percent since November," said spokeswoman Judy Taylor.”

http://www.portfolio.com/culture-lifestyle/2009/03/19/Consumers-Simple-Pleasures