Sweat It Off: The average person gains...

Sweat It Off: The average person gains 6 to 8 pounds during the holidays, fitness experts say, and exercising is the best way to take off the weight. There are other benefits too. Exercising at least three times a week also increases resistance to fatigue, decreases tension and improves mood.

Bigger Numbers: Health spa memberships usually increase after the holidays, and existing members work out more often at this time of year too, says John Loyd, manager of Gold’s Gym in Northridge. “Daily workouts increase about 10%, but not everyone sticks to it,” he said. “It tapers off around March.” The most popular exercise equipment at Gold’s is the treadmill.

Kick It: A few years ago the big exercise fad was step aerobics, but this year it’s kick boxing, says Susan Ellefson, manager at Bally Total Fitness in Encino. “It’s fun, high impact and not the same old get-on-the-bike routine,” she said. Bally offers kick-boxing classes twice a week and they’re usually packed.

Water World: Not everyone likes to burn fat on land. Debbie Fordham, a 42-year-old teacher at Monroe High in North Hills, hits the pool five mornings a week and swims 2,500 yards each time. That’s 50 laps in a junior-Olympic-sized pool. “Every part of your body is working and it’s not stressful on your joints like running,” Fordham said. “I can do this the rest of my life.”