It’s about one month into the New Year and local gyms are still packed with those who made resolutions to meet fitness goals.

Although to some the wave of New Year’s hopefuls is an annual joke, local gyms have expressed their gratitude for the seasonal business boost.

“I love it. I love to look out and see new people and new faces,” said Lina Ericsen, owner of CycleFit. “I hope they keep coming back, and I hope I’m helping them.”

CycleFit welcomed the newcomers with open arms, even releasing Groupon and Dealsaver deals in order to encourage more members to join. According to Ericsen, the CycleFit classes are 30 to 40 percent busier after the New Year and up until July than they are at any other time of year. CycleFit gains at least 10 or 15 people every January, and the more resolute commit to staying at least six months.

“I think it’s common,” said Shannon Mardakis, a coach at CrossFit Turlock. “I’ve been in the fitness industry for fifteen years and that’s always how it is.”

Mardakis mentioned noticing the inevitable influx of people with fitness goals who wanted to work out.

“I think it’s great,” she said. “I wish people the best.”

Riding on the coattails of the annual “New Year, New Me” jokes is the belief that gym members will treat new members following the fad with derision. Although this might be the case in some instances, Mardakis says it’s largely the opposite.

“We’re pretty friendly. Everyone at our gym always loves to see new faces,” said Mardakis. “Our [members] are really welcoming and they’re very encouraging to others.”