Local fitness experts: Gym memberships increase with the new year, but don't stick |

Of the many resolutions made at the beginning of the year, going on a diet or hitting the gym more regularly are among a few goals that tend to not stick.

Vice president of ATC Fitness said it's a noticeable trend across all of their Mid-South locations, and that 20 percent of members who join in January don't keep up with their resolution throughout the year.

"(Some new members) missed a day and then fall off the wagon and let themselves down, they lose the resolution," said ATC Fitness president Spencer McDaniel.

Laura Hargrave is a manager at the Arlington location, she said last year there were 221 new members from the start of January to the beginning of February.

"Come in here and join, they try that resolution and drop off," she said.

McDaniel said that ATC Fitness wants to help people achieve their fitness goals for 2013 and beyond.

To be successful, new members must make their new exercise routine or diet a habit.

"My advice to those making a resolution is to not overcommit themselves. Start slow, just with a diet and then make it incorporate with fitness or vice versa. Just don't burn yourself out," said McDaniel.

Memphis Health and Fitness magazine publisher agrees that people who want to stay on the bandwagon need to make short, obtainable goals in order to see results.

Amy Goode said injuries are also a factor to consider, some people push themselves too much and end up hurt.

"Don't change too many things. (In the beginning of January) some people will say 'I'm going to work out six days a week, go on a diet, give up alcohol,' and that's a set up for failure," said Goode.

Goode recommends trying everything in moderation, eating small meals throughout the day and going to the gym with a friend or family member.

"Having a buddy and being accountable, it's not that personal trainers know something we don't know - it's about being accountable. (Having someone to say) we are meeting at Shelby Farms at 5 a.m. helps to keep the resolution, So, having a buddy, an obtainable goal and staying injury free," said Goode.