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NEWS
Busy crowds put healthy foot forward
Several folks utilize the YMCA's exercise equipment on New Year's Day Thursday, Jan. 1, 2009, at the YMCA in Huntington.
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HUNTINGTON -- Becky and Brittany Daniels are a mother-daughter duo striving for a healthier lifestyle in the new year. Their mission started two weeks ago and continued New Year's morning.
They were among many who looked past Thursday being a holiday and hurried to the YMCA.
Becky Daniels, 36, is a single mother working two jobs. She once believed that workload left her without time to exercise, but then she discovered making time is a must. She said day-to-day dedication is a crucial part of achieving her goal.
"I took off three days during Christmas break and gained three pounds," she said. "It's really important not to miss any days. That first day back is like your first day starting."
Fred Mellert, building supervisor at the Huntington YMCA's May Building, said early numbers indicate membership will increase in 2009.
The club operated on an abbreviated four-hour schedule Thursday. Mellert described the day as busy with an estimated attendance at 300 near closing time. A large majority of those were regular attendees and visitors from out of town. Those folks making New Year's resolutions to exercise made up a small number. He anticipates that rush will arrive Monday.
Brittany Daniels, 18, plans to get married in June. She hopes frequent exercise will help her get the wedding dress of her dreams. Her long-range motivation looks toward days when she will be a healthy mother. She recognizes working with her mother will provide much needed encouragement.
Becky Daniels said her recent loss of 12 pounds encouraged them both.
Mellert said attendance typically peaks in January with full classes. The weight and fitness rooms near capacity. Attendance typically drops off with time, but Mellert said the club does not see large declines as it did years ago.
"Most people any more, if they're going to spend the money to belong to an organization, they are staying and staying with it," he said.
Mellert's advice to newcomers is to take it slow. He said those making resolutions and other exercise rookies drop out if they go full throttle at the beginning, instead of gradually working themselves into a routine.
