Days before the start of the New Year, residents were already thinking about their resolutions. Spokespersons for three of Bermuda's gyms said interest spiked in the last two weeks while pharmacies didn't see an increase in sales of nicotine patches.

Operations manager at The Athletic Club, Joanne Bieley, said anyone calling her facility were told memberships were closed since the club already had enough clients.

Ms Bieley said a number of people have called looking to tour the gym or be placed on a waiting list. Current clients looking to lose some pounds have also been making inquiries about personal trainers.

Shane Power, of Magnum Powerforce Gym, said the last week of the year was hectic with a flurry of calls.

"We don't normally see a major increase until January," he said. "I think because of the way the holiday fell this year, with most people having four days off to eat and drink, people are feeling very guilty. The number of parties increased so the guilt increased."

Though he has not seen an increase in interest in personal trainers he said with the new gym opening in a few weeks he expected more people will call looking for help to firm up in the New Year.

The phones at Bermuda's only gym catering to females, Curves, have also been ringing off the hook.

"We've had over 30 calls," Sharon Miller said of the two final days of 2005.

Besides training facilities, Curves also offers a Member's Guide, which many people have expressed an interest in.

"It's an eating plan that will help clients lose the weight they need to," Ms Miller said. "More importantly, it teaches people how to eat so they have permanent results without permanent dieting."

Meanwhile, the People's Pharmacy and Whites Pharmacy said it has not yet seen an increase in the number of people looking to buy the nicotine patch.

Late last year, MPs and Senators approved a smoking ban which will go into effect in April but patrons unable to smoke in bars, restaurants or enclosed public places.

Perhaps most smokers have decided to revel in their last months of smoking freedom and have postponed their New Year's resolution until April.