Ref. 74430-17SWINDONIANS are flocking to the gym to fight off the festive flab.

Health and fitness centres across town are reporting a roaring trade as people vow to kick-start a healthier 2005.

And it's not just 20 somethings and mums and dads fighting the middle-aged spread who are rushing to sign on the dotted line of membership forms.

It seems the rise in child obesity is beginning to strike a chord with many families.

Young ones are being tempted away from their video games for a trip to the local gym.

Now the Marriott Hotel, in Pipers Way, is even considering launching special exercise classes just for youngsters.

Stacy Williams, a fitness instructor at the health centre, says children love accompanying parents to the pool.

And she stressed how important it is for adults to set a good example.

She says so far it's been encouraging.

Earlier this week, she saw 12 people mainly couples in just one afternoon.

"Six couples wanted to be shown around the gym," she said. "Normally we would only have one or two people interested in signing up so this was quite unusual."

It seems the boozy festive get-togethers and mince pies have taken their toll and people are thinking about squeezing into their beachwear.

"A lot of people young and old have obviously overindulged this Christmas and want to do something about it," said Stacy.

"The summer is not that far away and people are perhaps a bit worried about fitting into their swimming costumes."

Stacy said the benefits of combining an exercise programme with healthy eating could not be over-emphasised.

"Not only will you increase your fitness levels allowing you do more this year you will also be and feel a lot healthier," she said.

"Often people complain of boredom when they are exercising.

"But there are a number of fun classes, like body combat, that people can sign up for.

"At the moment only children over 16 can use the gym facilities but they are very welcome to use the pool.

"There are rumours that we may re-launch Kids Fit classes designed specifically for young people.

"If we can get people interested in looking after their health from an early age they are more likely to have a good attitude to it in later life."