On the Third Day of Christmas: Get in Shape Together

Yesterday we suggested the gift of food, so how about some detox today?

Everyone indulges over the holidays, but some people need an extra push to make up for it later.

A gym or personal training membership is a gift that your friends and family will thank you for now and for months to come.

They may be fitness buffs or they might dread the treadmill, but either way they will be thrilled when their bodies are looking better than ever, all thanks to you (and their hard work of course).

Does your friend really need some inspiration? Get yourself a membership too and offer to work out together. You will both benefit from encouraging one another to improve each time you hit the gym, and you'll get to spend more time together too.

Bally Total Fitness

For: Men and women

Location: 2935 Hempstead Tpke.

Prices: $24.99 to $34.99 per month, no contract required. Must start with at least two months up front. One-time card fee of $29. Personal training $33 per session and up. Membership includes one free personal training session. For more information visit www.ballyfitness.com or call 516-579-3900.

Workout: Machines, group exercise classes, pool, racket ball courts.

Perks: Relax post-workout in the sauna, jacuzzi or steam room. 

Curves

For: Women only

Location: 3713 Hempstead Tpke.

Prices: $44 per month, one-time registration fee of $99. Occasional specials offered, visit www.curves.com or call 516-796-6042.

Workout: Utilize the circuit training on machines, or get your groove on with zumba curve classes, beginning in January ($2 per class).

Perks: Some women prefer to get their sweat on with no men around. Also, the knowledgeable staff works closely with clients to guide them in using the machines.

NEW: Planet Fitness

For: Men and women

Location: 3025 Hempstead Tpke.

Prices: Option one: $10 per month, $29 start-up fee, $29 annual fee, no commitment. Option two: $19.99 per month, $39 annual fee, one year commitment. May bring one guest along on every visit for free. Also includes free tanning, massage chairs and half-price on all drinks. Personal training: $33 per hour. For more information, visit www.planetfitness.com or call 516-605-1270.

Workout: Cardio and strength equipment, free fitness instruction classes teach how to use the machines and design personal workout programs.

Perks: This "judgement-free zone" caters to the average client in a non-intimidating environment. Free instructional classes are offered to all members, and the Black Card option allows you to bring a friend every time.

Synergy Fitness

For: Men and women

Location: 2709 Hempstead Tpke.

Prices: Membership prices range from $10-$25 per month, affordable personal training is also offered. For specific prices and specials visit www.lifitness.com or call 516-579-4884. Membership includes free daycare.

Workout: Machines, full aerobics classes, personal training.

Perks: Membership includes free daycare, and the gym is open 24-hours on weekdays.