Americans Spending More on Getting in Shape Inexpensively

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Most men want to have the abdominal muscles women swoon over. Women too, are seeking to become more slim and trim. All of this adds up to a fitness boom like no other, that is creating more jobs in business.

Entrepreneur Magazine reports that, “Fitness clubs and health stores are now a $41.4 billion industry--muscling up $1 billion from a year ago. Gym memberships have increased steadily throughout the recession--of the 45.3 million health club members, more than 10 million of them joined in 2009, according to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association.”

Time conscious Americans are looking for way to get in shape in less time, with less sweat equity and more privacy. With the advent of home fitness gurus touting the smart and easy way to sculpt your body this is evidence that the demand is rising. “Fitness buffs are turning to programs and products that can be used anywhere, anytime. Clubs like Anytime Fitness are offering members low-cost dues ($25 to $35 a month) and anytime key access. Members get the benefits of a home gym without the sweaty companions, reported Entrepreneur Magazine.

By preferring more private opportunities to get in shape at a reduced price has created a demand for small group personal training. “Small-group personal training will thrive in 2011, says Pete McCall, an exercise physiologist with the American Council on Exercise. When two to six people share one trainer, it can cut the price of a session by a third.”

Some of this thinking started as a result of the U.S. Surgeon General, David Satcher, issuing a call to action ten years ago. According to Shape Up America, “In December, 2001, the U. S. Surgeon General, Dr. David Satcher issued “The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Prevent and Decrease Overweight and Obesity.” In this report, Dr. Satcher joined former U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop by highlighting the health risks and costs of overweight and obesity and issued a call to Americans to take action.

Dr. Koop founded Shape Up America! in 1994 because of his concern about the increasing prevalence of obesity in America. The mission of Shape Up America! is to provide you with solid (scientific) information on weight management. Over the years, the Surgeon General has warned Americans about such things as the hazards of cigarette smoking or a high cholesterol level in your blood. In 1996, the Surgeon General issued an important report on physical activity and warned us that regardless of our age, we are just not active enough.”

So, Americans are continuing the trend to get in shape and live longer healthier lives. It is this kind of trend,that is creating an increase in opportunity for business minded individuals who want to meet this need and profit by doing so. If you are a person looking to capitalize on this trend, the time to take action is now.

Tom Borg is a consultant in leadership management, team building and customer service. Please see more of his blogs go to businessworkforceblog.com and csjobsblog.com To view additional job postings go to Nexxt
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