TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) -- As the new year begins, people are hoping to get or stay in shape.
Local gyms are expecting big turnouts this month, as folks try to follow through on their New Year's resolutions.
Working out and adopting a healthier lifestyle have been popular goals for many, but is 2017 the year it finally comes together?
A new year means a new body for some, so, hitting the gym in January is a popular first step.
"Our numbers definitely increase with new members, and then our older members return and recommit themselves," said Jaye Danforth, owner of American Fitness 24/7.
Monday, gym members wasted no time with their workouts, but getting fit isn't just a mindset.
"Make that -- our gym time or fitness time, our active lifestyle -- make that a habit," Danforth said.
At Gold's Gym, Irie Bennett was getting a new membership. She said making gym time a habit is critical.
"Don't make an excuse about it," she said. "Just go. You signed up for it. You know it's going to pain you. You know it's going to take time out. Just commit to it."
While gyms see an influx of members to start every year, those numbers tend to drop as time goes on. Local gyms say there's a way to motivate members to keep their New Year's resolution.
"Things that keep them engaged and keep them in the good habit of working out and keeping healthy," said Bob Burtoft, general manager of Gold's Gym.
At Gold's, new members get a free fitness evaluation.
"We can set their goals, their meal planning, and give them kind of a plan," Burtoft said, "a roadmap for success, so that they can follow that."
At American Fitness, new members get free team training.
"You develop friendships in that team environment, and that will help them get to their goals faster," Danforth said.
Local gyms say they expect that first rush of members by next week -- when most college students are back in town.
