New Year’s resolutions: Where are they now?

Gyms in Grant County have seen firsthand the impact New Year resolutions can have on total members.

CEO of the Grant County YMCA, Adam Myers, said the increase in people at the gym at the start of the year is noticeable. “There is an increase in total usage, and we have new members that they want to come in and apply and get a chance to out part of our programs and what we offer.” 

According to Drive Research, in 2024, 79% of New Year’s resolutions were health-related, which included increasing fitness levels and eating healthier. 

Kandy Akers, owner of Anytime Fitness in Marion, said she also sees an increase in numbers at the start of the year.  

To help encourage people on their fitness journey in the new year. Akers said Anytime Fitness has a join-for-a-dollar deal. 

COO of the Grant County YMCA, C.J Anstaed, said they also offer discounts at the beginning of the year. 

“This year, we actually opened it up to new and existing members,” Anstead said. “We did 25% off for the year 2025 if they bought a year in advance.” 

Drive Research also said that 23% of adults quit their New Year resolutions by the end of the first week of January. 

Myers said it is typical to see some of the new gym goers disappear after a few weeks. 

“The business, there are other things that compete for our time, how well do you get connected, there is burnout,” Myers said. “We hope to do something, but our goal might not be realistic.” 

Meyers said the YMCA wants to see as many people as possible stick to their goals. 

“Our goal at the YMCA is to foster an environment that when people want to make healthy choices and decisions for their lives,” Myers said. “Be New Years or whenever they choose that we can support it and provide an atmosphere that’s conducive for them to be successful.

For a long-time gym member, having an influx of people could potentially alter your gym routine, Myers said. But seeing new people to talk with and build relationships can also be exciting.