May 24, 2004

Health Clubs Start the Battle Against Obesity
Results are Encouraging

French Riviera Spa and Riviera Fitness Centers just finished hosting Ihrsa's Get Active America campaign. "The results of this campaign are Encouraging", said community events coordinator Alice Gonzales, "We saw a lot of new faces, and hopefully, a lot of people are starting on a new fitness lifestyle."

For one week in May 2004, health clubs across America were open to the public free of charge. Millions of Americans of all ages were offeredd a 'first step' opportunity to get started on an exercise program designed specifically for their personal needs, by professionals, in a supportive, safe environment.

Forty percent of Americans are sedentary and more than 129 million are overweight. This costs the government over 50 billion dollars yearly in health care costs. In an effort to stem the tide of obesity and sedentary lifestyle, the fitness industry joined forces in a week long campaign introducing the public to health clubs in their area. The "getactiveamercia" plan was developed by IHRSA-The International Health and Racquetball Sports Association.

GET ACTIVE AMERICA! was a week-long program aimed at more than 1,600 health clubs featuring a 'bring a guest for free' campaign, building to a three day weekend 'open house' during which consumers worked out and enjoyed their neighborhood club for free. Clubs were open to everyone, whether a member not.

Get Active America! is the health club industry's ACTION plan to help combat these staggering numbers by making it easy for Americans to recognize the need for, and develop a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise.

The May 17-20: 'Bring a Friend for Free' campaign allowed current members to bring their friends and family members in to experience their club for free.

The May 21-23: Weekend 'Open House' allowed local residents to visit and workout at clubs for free