Bendigo Fernwood Gym owner Ben Cook said more people sign up in January historically than any other month.

“It’s a chance for people to start off with a clean slate and with extra motivation to achieve,” he said.

This was seconded by Built Personal Training head trainer Danny McQuinn, who operates out of Dohertys Gym.

“We certainly see some people come in and join in respect to New Year’s resolutions but I think it’s more than just a compulsive decision,” he said. 

“It’s a new year and a new start.”

But Lifestyle Fitness owner Brikitta Daniels said in past few years her gym had seen an influx of new clients in February.

She said more people now looked to start their fitness journey after the summer holidays finish.

“I really feel New Year’s resolutions now start in February,” she said. 

“It’s not like it used to be when heaps of people would join throughout the whole January month. 

“Now it’s February when everyone gets really into it and with the kids back at school, everyone is back in to a routine.”

The trainers all said it was their focus to get new members to maintain their new fitness resolve long after New Year is over.

Mr Cook said it was important to encourage new members to create realistic goals that can be sustained. 

“People need to turn it into a habit,” he said. 

“Health and fitness is for life not just the New Year’s period.”