Rush on gyms starts as holiday feasts end

With people eager to work off the holiday ham or get a jump start on New Year's resolutions, it's crunch time for local gyms.

The period between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day is the busiest time of year for new memberships.

"(New members) have been busy all fall and now say, 'I have the chance to lose all this weight.' Traditionally people think, 'OK, this is a new year and I better get started,' " said Gail Connaughton, general manager for Premier Health and Fitness Club in Annapolis.

January enrollments account for 12 to 14 percent of her gym's total membership.

The holidays, with big meals and busy schedules,...