Frugal Family: Fit For Fall

Just because summer is at an end, there's no reason to stop working out and trying to stay physically fit. Many women work out like mad all spring in order to fit into that 2 piece bathing suit by summer, and then fall right back into their lazy habits by fall. Usually by the time January rolls around, these women are right back to making a New Year's diet resolution. Don't let that happen to you! There's no reason you can't stay fit all year long. If you're not already a member of the Y - of which there are two in the Woonsocket area -why not check out one of the following physical fitness centers located right here in Woonsocket? 

, located at 2168 Diamond Hill Rd. (on the Cumberland line) offers state-of-the-art equipment and more than 40 classes to choose from including Aerobics, Body Sculpting, Cycling, Martial arts, Pilates, Weight Loss, and Yoga. The Gym also offers a playcenter for kids called Lil' Gymies. The Gym is open Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

, located at 600 Social St. specializes in corporate wellness programs and personal training. WHR offers a beautiful pool, locker room facilities, towel services, three racquet courts, and a half-court basketball facility. WHR is open Monday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

is located at 840 Cumberland Hill Rd. This gym facility offers state-of-the-art equipment, personal training, nutritional programs and classes including kickboxing, grappling and jujitsu. Allaire is open  Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

if you're the type of person who prefers a challenge, kickboxing might be the answer for you. , located at 1500 Diamond Hill Rd., offers kickboxing, Kenpo karate, competition training, weapon training and self defense. The classes are flexible enough to fit any schedule and the prices reasonable enough for any budget. Master Academy is open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

In my opinion, the best deal in town currently would have to be . I joined this particular gym last week and I couldn't be happier with the location, amenities, and available equipment.  Located at 2000 Diamond Hill Rd. (across from the old Wal Mart Shopping Center,) this gym is easily accessible from Woonsocket, Cumberland, Lincoln and Bellingham. You may have heard the local radio advertisements for Planet Fitness boasting a "judgement free" atmosphere and ridiculously low monthly fees. I've found these claims to be true. For a mere $19.99 per month, I have access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (they are now open all the time) to their two gymnasium sized rooms filled with state-of-the-art equipment, free weights, cardio equipment, strength training machines, beautifully maintained large and airy locker rooms, unlimited tanning, unlimited use of massage chairs, half price cooler drinks, reciprocal use of all Planet Fitness Franchise Locations and unlimited guest privileges. This is an unbeatable deal. If that price is too high to meet your budget, you can join for $10 per month, and use the equipment minus the perks.

In all the years I've been working out, I've yet to encounter such an extravagantly affordable fitness center as Planet Fitness. I was able to sign up from the comfort of my own living room online at PlanetFitness.com. This was a process that took no more than five minutes. It was a cinch to join; it cost no more than what I would spend in a week on Dunkin' Donuts coffee; and I was able to work out that very night. 

I wish all the Patch readers the best of luck in staying physically fit through the autumn months and into the Christmas season.