You've decided to start an exercise program. By doing so, you will be joining a growing segment of the population who wants to gain more control over their health and well-being.

The Exercise Movement

The Exercise Movement What is regular exercise? What are the benefits of regular exercise? Why do people join health and sportsclubs? How do I shop for a club? How do I choose the right club for me? Tips for choosing a personal trainer at a club What should I know before I sign the membership agreement? IHRSA Membership Eligibility Standards

As the benefits of regular exercise become better known, more and more people of all ages are joining the exercise movement. Between 1987 and 1995, the number of health club members in the United States almost doubled. Once thought to be the domain of the very young, health clubs now attract people of all ages. In fact, one in 10 members is age 65 or older.

Just how important is regular exercise?

In 1996, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a landmark report entitled Physical Activity and Health, which likens lack of physical activity to smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. The report concluded that, "Americans can substantially improve their health and quality of life by including moderate amounts of physical activity in their daily lives...Moreover, health benefits appear to be proportional to the amount of activity; thus, every increase in activity adds some benefit."