As US economy slows, gym memberships decline

The Vancouver Sun reports:

In the U.S., the flagging economy has triggered the first nationwide decrease in gym memberships in more than a decade, according to a report by the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association.

Not only are gym memberships likely to decline, Americans will try to save money by eating more fast food. In the US, processed junk food tends to be both affordable and most widely available in poor neighborhoods. Thus, a bad economy will likely lead to increased obesity, more chronic illness, and ultimately -- down the road -- to higher health care costs.