Chin Up! Beat those Winter Blues

The dead of winter is here. Not only is it freezing outside but the days are short and dark. It seems the kids are out on snow holiday once a week and those days off of work are backing you up, causing an urgency to get it all back on track.

On top of it all, you're going out much less because of the cold temperatures and find yourself hanging around, eating more than you'd like. There's a solution to the side effects of this seemingly never-ending winter doldrums... the gym!

, at 25 Lindeman Drive, has the tools you need to boost your metabolism, get your blood moving (not by chasing your kids from room to room) and most importantly, kick those winter blues.

When you're moving around at a steady pace, endorphins are released in the brain, creating a natural good mood. With Planet Fitness' wide range of machines, you can find which exercise best gets your endorphins flowing.

TJ Sapak, an employee at Planet Fitness since 2009 says the gym is a great escape for those who are either already in shape or first-time users.

"The people that come to Planet Fitness are all types of age groups and come from all types of gym backgrounds. We are a gym that focuses on general fitness." He said. "Working out is a great way to relieve stress because you feel accomplished when you leave. If you concluded a workout of lifting weights or even running a mile you have left all your stress at the gym."

For those who are busier with work, family or just have limited time of the day but would still like to get to the gym, Planet Fitness has an express workout for you.

"The 30 minute express workout we offer is great if you're short on time or your schedule only allows you to be there so often," Sapak said.

"What the express does is work your whole body from head to toe, while you can do stair stepping in between each machine to work on your cardio. All you need is that 30 minute time frame and your bottle of water," he said.

To get the full benefits of Planet Fitness, you'd have to sign up for the Black Card. For only $19.99 a month and no startup fee, the Black Card allows you to enjoy unlimited tanning, use of massage chairs, unlimited fitness training as well as guest privileges. If the girls have dance in Shelton, no problem! The PF Black Card membership allows you to visit any Planet Fitness in the state. A little mental escape is really that simple and convenient.

Dee Williamson, a mother of four, has been going to Planet Fitness' throughout Fairfield County for about three years.

"I go to the gym when the kids are out at karate. Even though I only go once or twice a week, I still feel relieved to sweat off the stress for an hour," Williamson said.

"I've also met a lot of great people at the gym, some parents of my kids' friends and some brand new. We'll walk together on the treadmills. I always end it off with a tanning session."

Planet Fitness also offers one-on-one training with certified personal trainers which can help develop focus.

According to Sapak, "Personal training could be a great experience for first time gym users and also to the all-star athlete. It's a great experience because I have noticed that everyone has different techniques and different exercises to do to help the client with their needs. Personal training is also a great way for people who haven't worked out before to learn the proper techniques and to show them that it’s possible to see the results they want to see."

Williamson also meets with a personal trainer from time to time. She says it has helped her relax more during work and everyday tasks.

"Everything I've been taught through personal training has translated into my daily life. I am more focused at work, the kids and my husband," she said.

To sign up for Planet Fitness' Black Card or regular membership you can visit their website at Planetfitness.com or stop by its Lindeman Drive location.