How do Federal Way residents get in shape? An informal poll revealed last week that as the weather turns colder, membership at the health clubs around Federal Way is rising towards an all-time high. In addition to two Bally Total Fitness and a 24-Hour Fitness clubs, Federal Way hosts four gyms exclusively for women; Curves (two locations), Fit for Women and Liberty Fitness.

"We now have about 75 members," said Nancy Agostino, the owner of Liberty Fitness at 32911 1st Avenue S. "Most live in the city, but some just work here, so they find it convenient to go on their lunch hour."

She reported that a membership cost $29 per month plus a fee to join, but to encourage more women to get in shape for the holidays, she is currently offering to wave the enrollment fee in exchange for a donation of canned food or a child's winter coat.

The YMCA in Federal Way is not a full facility, as they specialize in offering child care and after-school programs. However, The Y is in the process of expanding their adult yoga and Pilates classes, and they currently offer adult karate.

For the truly adventurous, the Y also hosts adult roller hockey games twice a week.

"Most people bring their own equipment, but we do have a few pairs of skates available for those who don't," said Sean Stolte, community program director for the YMCA of Federal Way. "The age- range of participants is anywhere from 16 to 60. It's a fun workout."

For those who prefer to work out in the privacy of their own home, hiring a personal trainer is often money well spent.

Nicole Staab, 27 and a certified personal trainer based in Federal Way, has about eight full-time clients to keep her busy. "I'm in the business of women's' self-esteem," said Staab. "I'd do this job even if I didn't get paid." Staab's clients either come to her studio, which contains a treadmill and elliptical, along with weights and workout aids like a fitness ball and exercise bans, or she travels to their homes.

"People find it very helpful to have someone design their exercise program and to hold their hand throughout," Staab said. Her fees are in the $45-55 dollar range. The more sessions per week, the lower the fee.

For her own personal fitness, Staab enjoys the Thai kickboxing class taught by her husband in his Kent studio.

Staab is also an independent contractor who conducts "bridal boot camps" for brides-to-be.

Federal Way residents also opt to purchase their own equipment to set up a private gym. Andre Douglas, the manager of the Fitness Shop, a retailer of tread machines and other fitness equipment on Enchanted Parkway South, says in the summer, when people are outside enjoying the good weather, the Fitness Shop sees an average of 30 to 50 new customers each week. In November, that number jumps to 50 to 80.

"Most of our customers are 30 to early 60s," Douglas said. "They all come seeking gym-quality equipment without the fees and hassles of belonging to a club. And since our products are of such high quality and we offer lifetime service, the machines don't end up turning into coat hangers."