By Patti Moon
Medill Reports - Chicago

Today is the last day to get a free workout and discounted membership at Chicago Park District fitness centers. The free workouts may be ending, but patrons say they don't plan to "slim down" their new fitness routines anytime soon.

"I better keep coming. I promised myself three times a week until I lose 20 pounds. I've got kids. I have to stay healthy for them," said Amy Arter, a new patron at the fitness center in Welles Park. Arter is a 32-year-old art teacher who recently had a baby. Her New Year's resolution is to trim the left-over pregnancy weight.

Park District gyms offer three-month memberships ranging from $40 to $75. Patrons get a 33 percent discount if they sign up in person before tomorrow. The district's Jessica Maxey-Faulkner says memberships are ideal for people who cannot afford commercial gym memberships.

For the past two weeks, the Park District has offered free admission to its 55 fitness centers (including Ridge Park, 9625 S. Longwood Ave.) around the city. The promotion attracted 2,000 people last year, and the district expects higher numbers this year. At Welles Park alone, more than 150 people have registered.

Although it is important to have a consistent exercise routine, fitness specialists admit that exercise can get boring. "With New Year's resolutions, people tend to overdo it," said Colleen Lammel-Harmon, executive director of the Mayor's Fitness Council. "What we really want them to do is find something they enjoy. We

People can vary their exercise routine by trying out different classes, Lammel-Harmon said. Park District gyms offer Pilates, kickboxing and yoga.

Chicago is making an effort to "shape up," moving down from America's fattest city to No. 13 in the past year, she said. "Chicago's really taking a turn and that's because of the options. We've got the lakefront and tons of indoor swimming pools. I encourage people to find something they enjoy and stick to it."