NORTHERN Rivers gyms are gearing up for their busiest weeks of the year, as Christmas memberships are redeemed and fresh New Year resolutions push people back through the doors.<\/p>\n
January is traditionally peak season for gym sign-ups across the country, with attendance surging before easing again later in summer.<\/p>\n
A study found up to 6.2 million Australians, or 32 per cent of the population, held a gym membership during the January rush.<\/p>\n
Gym owners and managers across the region say simple, realistic habits are what keep people coming back long after the January peak fades.<\/p>\n
“One of the biggest things we see is people losing focus by spending too much time on their phones between sets,” one gym owner said.<\/p>\n
“It breaks presence and momentum, which is a big part of why people stop enjoying the gym.<\/p>\n
“It can also quietly create tension with other members when machines are tied up and the atmosphere shifts without anyone meaning for it to happen.<\/p>\n
“Most people don’t realise it, but when the space feels less welcoming, it becomes harder to stick with a routine.”<\/p>\n
Timing can also shape the experience, particularly for people returning to the gym.<\/p>\n
Managers recommend avoiding the 5pm logjam where possible, with quieter periods often early in the morning or between 2pm and 4pm, depending on work and family commitments.<\/p>\n
Many gyms now offer 24-hour access with flexible staffing, making it easier to train outside peak times.<\/p>\n
People new to the gym are also encouraged to partner up with a friend, whether that is an experienced member or someone starting out on a similar journey.<\/p>\n
Being realistic about time and goals is another recurring theme.<\/p>\n
“Some people think they need to be here for more than an hour to get the most out of a workout,” another gym owner said.<\/p>\n
“If they plan ahead and settle on a handful of exercises, they can come and go within half an hour.”<\/p>\n
Other advice includes bringing a towel, easing into training and resisting the urge to overdo it in the first few weeks.<\/p>\n
“People should also not be overwhelmed by what more experienced members are doing around them,” one manager said.<\/p>\n
“Everyone has to start somewhere and usually you’ll find people are happy to help and encourage other members on their journey.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
NORTHERN Rivers gyms are gearing up for their busiest weeks of the year, as Christmas memberships are redeemed and fresh New Year resolutions push people back through the doors. January is traditionally peak season for gym sign-ups across the country, with attendance surging before easing again later in summer. A study found up to 6.2 […]<\/p>\n