Health club operators across the UK have traditionally looked to benefit from increased membership numbers during January, thanks to people making getting fit one of their New year resolutions.

After the initial enthusiasm dies out, however, clubs - and especially private trainers - often find that numbers at gyms begin to dwindle pretty quickly.

This in mind, the International Health Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), has produced a list of the most common excuses used by members to stay clear of the gym.

IHRSA has urged private trainers to look out for the excuses and act accordingly, to avoid losing customers when their initial zeal to get fit begins to diminish.

Joe Moore, IHRSA president, said:. "Starting an exercise program is tough work, but the mental and physical health rewards outweigh any of those initial hurdles.

"Even when life gets busy, health must come first, so I urge everyone to stop with the excuses and 'Take Back Your Health' in 2010 by making fitness a priority this year."

The excuses identified by IHRSA include four common ones recognisable to all private trainers:

1. "I'm too busy at work during the day to find time to workout."

Truth: Everyone is busy, and if it's time on this earth the customer values, they should put their health first. Remind them that if they don't, what they're actually doing is letting time slip right through their fingers. Exercise improves mood, energy level and promotes better sleep; making them more efficient at all those daily tasks.

2. "Health club memberships are too expensive." Truth: Memberships are available at a variety of price points, some as low as £5. In 2008, average monthly membership costs a little over £30.

3. "Everyone at the gym is fit and in shape."

Truth: People of all populations, ages, genders, weights, shapes, sizes, and skill levels workout at a club - make sure your client knows this. Make sure you help new members into the club environment and show them the ropes, making them feel at home, and demonstrate proper exercise technique so they'll feel like a pro on the fitness floor. Meeting a new workout buddy or bringing a friend can also provide the social support they need to get started and maintain their routine.

4. "Why join a health club when I can exercise outside?" Truth: Every day is unpredictable, as most people have found out in the past few weeks - rain, shine, sleet, heat, cold, or snow, a health club provides a protective environment for working out; no matter what the weather is like outside.

Trainers wanting to see the full list of ten excuses, go to the IHRSA website: www.healthclubs.com/excuses.