Monterey gym sees spike in memberships

The new year often represents a clean slate, a chance to do things differently. For many, that means eating right and working out.

“My new year’s resolution is going to the gym, trim myself,” said one Monterey tourist.

“Maybe do some exercise and do something fun,” said a Salinas woman.

Every year around this time, Monterey Sports Center said it sees a spike in memberships with people eager to shed some pounds as part of their new year’s resolutions.

“We see a lot of new faces around the first of the year. The first couple of months you’ll see the cardio room is going to be a little more popular,” said Andrew Diaz with Monterey Sports Center.

But staying on track is never easy. Just as quickly as gyms fill up, fitness fanatics know it’s not long before the crowds start to fade.

So if you’re serious about keeping that weight loss goal, trainers suggest group exercise classes.

“So that’s kind of one way to have a fun experience, feel like you’re almost at a party with some of the dance-based Zumba classes that we have. It takes all the guesswork out of working out and it’s really fun,” said Diaz.

But the new year isn’t all about weight loss. Many people said it’s just about being happy with life.

“My new year’s resolution for 2016 is to enjoy every breath and turn it into a positive light of love,” said another Salinas woman.

“We just got married, so ours is to make it to our first wedding anniversary,” said one Monterey couple.