(CNN) - Many begin the new year with a resolution to lose weight and get
in shape, but it seems a lot of folks are staying home for their
workouts.
Many people turn to gyms to lose weight, but with the slumping
economy, gyms are seeing their numbers decline.
"All retailers are going through the same economic time right
now," said William Spencer, GM, Bally's Fitness.
The International Health, Raquet and Sportsclub Association says
gyms nationwide saw memberships drop in recent years. Typically,
gyms see a membership boon in January and this year many gyms are
hoping special deals will help pump up business.
But a membership can be a waste of money if you pay but don't
end up going. So some people are resorting to feeling the right
type of burn without burning a hole in their wallets by exercising
at home.
Personal trainer Angel Stone demostrated how to do an ab workout
with a dish towel. Fitness experts says getting in shape is all
about how much you commit to your goal.
"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," said Spencer.
But you can reach goals by doing it on your own at home.
It has to be small enough to be doable, when people have these
huge goals, most likely they fail," Stone said.