It is that time of year when people start to fall off the New Year resolutions that they made in January. Good intentions were made about starting that fitness program and eating healthy, walking or running, lifting weights and riding bikes; and all that goes into getting a more healthy lifestyle.

On Saturday, February 17, the fourth annual Fitness San Marcos event will be held at the San Marcos Activity Center from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. This is an excellent chance to add to that motivation of achieving fitness this year. If you have not started yet, this is a perfect opportunity to look at all the various programs the city offers in one easy-to-visit location.

Booths will be there for visitors to talk with fitness people about their programs, their costs, and what they have to offer, and to get some expert advice on fitness and healthy living. One of the best things, other than getting the opportunity to talk with leading health professionals, is that the event is free to the public. There are no pressure sales talks; and you will be able to compare the various offerings of fitness in one visit and take advantage of some of the fitness workouts that will be offered during the event.

Booths that are sponsored by fitness businesses, as well as clubs and organizations of various sorts, will all be there. There are at least five weightlifting and fitness gyms in town; and here is your chance to see and talk with all of them at the same time.

Clubs such as the San Marcos Runners Club and the San Marcos River Walkers will be represented for those who like to walk or run. Bike shops can offer tips on getting the right bicycle for you to add to your fitness routine. In years past, Curves for Women has had a booth; if you are limited in time but need a great workout, they can offer their program.

If you need some advice on healthy eating or adding some beneficial supplements to increase your energy, some of the health food stores will be there to answer your questions; and many offer free samples for you to take with you. Part of a fitness program is the actual working out; but the other portion is eating healthy and having enough energy to continue a daily program of fitness so that you will see and feel the benefits of exercise.

The various programs and businesses that will be demonstrated during the day have provided prizes for drawings to lucky visitors to use after the event is over. The cost for entering your name for a chance for a prize is also free, so you are not out any out-of-pocket expense. How can you lose by taking time to visit this expo on fitness and getting first-hand information that you would normally have to pay for, or schedule a time to meet with the various programs one at a time during the week? Everything is here in one location to visit and meet with the people directly.

In addition to visiting the various booths, there will be two lectures that will be of interest to you in planning your fitness program.

One will be given by the Texas State Physical Education Wellness Program on the use of heart monitors to use during your workouts. Information will be given on how they work, the benefits that monitors can offer to your workout and the many activities in which they can be used. Most people think that heart monitors are used only by runners or walkers, and that is a very limited viewpoint on their potential value. Whether you play volleyball, softball, basketball or ride a bike, heart monitors can add some very positive information to aid you in your fitness program.

The other talk will cover some of the various benefits of lifting weights. Facts about the benefits of strength programs for all ages will be given, and some of the myths that still prevail about the potential problems of lifting weights will be dispelled. Program designs for your particular needs for a strength development program will be dealt with as well; and if you have individual questions they will try to answer them. What type of weight machines are good, or should you use free weights or cables and springs or isokinetic resistance will all be included in this talk.

Be sure and mark your calendar for February 17 at the San Marcos Activity Center between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for a great opportunity to learn some important and beneficial information about fitness and health.

If you have questions about the exposition, or if you want to have a free booth to advertise your business, club or organization in the area of health or fitness, call the San Marcos Activity Center at 393-8280 for more information.