Confessions of an exercise addict

CONFESSIONS OF AN EXERCISE ADDICT

By Jill Abrahamsen

I get cranky if I don’t work out on a regular basis. My familyknows it and they fully support my gym membership. If I get too wrapped up in work or personal commitments to exercise, I become a person no one wants to be around. So, as much as myhusband would rather not hear my alarm going off in the wee hours so I can squeeze in a workout, he prefers it over dealing with a grumpy wife for the rest of the day.

I’m certainly not an athlete or in exceptional shape, but breaking a daily sweat is a necessity for my well-being. Humans are made to move. Exercise makes us feel good. When those endorphins are released, we are happier and more productive. In fact, some of my best ideas have come to me in the middle of a kick boxing class or while pumping iron.

Like most of the workforce, I spend a good part of my day in front of a computer. It takes a toll on the body, but finding time to exercise can be challenging. Smart employers know the merits of regular exercise and some offer fitness memberships as part of their benefits packages or even have gyms in their office buildings. But for the rest of us, we need to figure out a way to squeeze in exercise.

Luckily, franchisors have recognized this need and they’re answering it with some interesting options. Niche fitness brands are popping up everywhere, offering the kind of convenience that leaves no room for excuses. From personal-training services that come right to your house to gyms that stay open for 24 hours, franchisors are making it easier to get that workout in. And with targeted exercise and well-researched exercise routines—often written by experts in a corporate office— gym-goers get what they came for: Results.

Whether you’re in for hardcore sports training, Pilates, or gentle stretching, there’s something out there for everyone. For investors, this is just the beginning. Knowing that regular exercise lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, dementia, and other chronic illnesses, using exercise as a preventive health tool is a growing trend. More and more doctors are recommending fitness plans.

There are fitness franchises for every budget. Some can be run out of a home, while others require just a small studio and minimal equipment, and of course, there are big fitness centers for large investors. And just think of the perks. With fitness opportunities all around you, you’ll always get your workout in—so there’s no reason to be cranky.