As January unfolds, Staten Island gyms are bustling with activity as many individuals commit to their New Year’s resolutions. The surge in attendance is evident, with parking lots near fitness centers filling quickly and nearly every exercise machine occupied. This annual influx raises questions about whether new members will maintain their motivation beyond the initial excitement of the new year.
Rosario DiBernardo, a partner at Intoxx Fitness, located at 2590 Hylan Blvd. in New Dorp, reports a notable increase in membership following the holiday season. He attributes this spike to individuals motivated to get in shape for the upcoming summer. Despite the initial enthusiasm, DiBernardo highlights a significant hurdle: retaining new members. “Attendance often drops sharply within the first three months if they don’t become emotionally attached to their fitness journey,” he explained.
DiBernardo distinguishes between two types of gym-goers. The first group is emotionally invested in their fitness, often knowledgeable about their routines. The second group starts strong, attending the gym four to five times a week, but their attendance can dwindle to just once a week within three months.
Nicolette Capua, a 23-year-old from Rossville, is one of the new members aiming for consistent workouts. “I absolutely love the equipment that they have here at Intoxx Fitness and the convenient amenities, such as on-site food and protein shakes,” she shared. Capua appreciates the spacious environment, which allows her to work out freely and peacefully.
At another gym, LA Fitness, located at 1565 Forest Ave. in Port Richmond Center, sales counselor Reshat Mati noted a slight uptick in attendance due to New Year’s resolutions. However, he described the atmosphere as generally quiet, with many regulars focused on their individual goals. “The culture of this gym is one where members respect the space and then go home,” Mati said, contrasting it with other locations that may experience a larger influx of temporary members.
Ana Valerio, a Port Richmond resident who has undergone a remarkable 75-pound weight loss, challenges the stereotype of short-lived “New Year’s resolution” gym-goers. She views the new year as a reminder to refocus on her fitness journey. Valerio emphasized the supportive community among regular members, who often assist one another. “I’m still intimidated, especially by the weight section, but the more you come, the more they help you,” she stated.
Some individuals, opting for at-home fitness solutions, purchase equipment ranging from treadmills to complete gym setups. Rob Angelone, who oversees the fitness department at Dick’s Sporting Goods in New Springville, noted that sales of fitness equipment see a significant increase beginning around Black Friday and continuing into January. This trend is driven by holiday shoppers and those looking to fulfill their resolutions.
Regular gym-goer Henri Perez stopped by Dick’s to buy his own straps due to frequent shortages at his gym. Reflecting on the New Year’s resolution phenomenon, he remarked, “Everybody has a good intention. But some people don’t have the time or the willingness, and they hit the TV and the couch as soon as they get home.”
For Francis Webb, a 76-year-old retiree from Elm Park, his gym routine is a lifeline. Following his doctor’s advice to lose weight, Webb credits his commitment to heavy lifting with keeping him active and healthy. “If I hadn’t gone to the gym, I’d probably be in a box by now,” he said, emphasizing the profound impact of fitness on his well-being.
As January progresses, the fate of many New Year’s resolutions remains uncertain. While gyms across Staten Island may experience an initial surge in membership, the challenge lies in fostering lasting commitment among new members.
