A SPECIAL REPORT: FITNESS

FIT BIZ: Like a well-toned muscle, the fitness industry seems to be enduring these gloomy economic times better than most. . . . Here in Orange County, where polls show 72% of the population pays attention to exercise, owners of some large health clubs say they are growing more slowly and spending less on new equipment, but the industry is healthy. Says one owner: “It’s still the best entertainment value for your dollar. Where else can you go every day for $35 to $40 a month? Dinner, a bottle of wine and a movie can cost $90 a pop.”