WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) – Rusty Leeds said that he’s determined to work on his physical fitness as 2025 begins.

“I’m in a position now where I got a little bit lax, little too sedentary, and right now I’m working on lifestyle changes,” Leeds said.

He joins many others who want to focus on their health as their New Year’s resolution.

Ashlee Ware is a personal trainer who leads what are called ‘boot camp’ classes, popular with people looking to begin a new fitness journey.

“As we go into the new year, all of our group classes are starting to increase, along with member memberships and member just members in general.”

Ware said that many people get discouraged in that journey in the first few weeks if they don’t immediately see results, and has advice on how to stick to it. 

“Taking it slower than you think like definitely setting realistic goals for yourself when it comes to the gym and even dieting is something that I think is important overall and utilizing even our personal training, our group classes, other members like connecting with any of our staff, we would be happy to help you With anything that you are needing,” Ware said.

Ware said that the early part of the new year is always an exciting time for her, as more and more people seek her help to build a more healthy lifestyle. 

“It makes me feel excited to help others get that keep because I feel like at the beginning of the year, we all have that excitement of chasing our goals, making it into the gym,” Ware said. “I definitely think as a trainer, that’s our time to take advantage of the members in a positive way and help them reach those goals and help them keep the momentum going.”

The Greater Wichita YMCA is offering free membership until February for those looking to start memberships now.