More and more people are exercising less and less. 

Sixty-one percent of those who join a health club quit within the first four weeks. 

Many shirk responsibility concerning their health. 

It is easier to say "I don't have time" than to change exercise, stress management, and diet habits. 

Snake oil salesmen and researchers are teaming up in search of a magic bullet. 

Anti-oxidants, ginger, amino acids, vitamins and minerals, mushrooms, Coenzyme Q 10, garlic, soy extract, selenium, and shark cartilage are hoped to contain the secret shortcut to health and fitness.

Food-a-holics won't cut down until they want to. 

Fad diets don't work. Recently the government has chastised many of the leading weight-loss centers for false claims.

Doctors sell different "programs." 

Scam diets include the latest "magical, miraculous, exotic, exclusive, new discovery breakthroughs." Many don't have a clue. Most have given up.

Infomercials display the latest fitness-fraud sauna wraps, rubber belts, vibrating machines, relaxacisers, and weighted belts. 

One infomercial disparages rubber-band resistance in favor of cheaper and more user-friendly models.

Proponents of non-motorized treadmills say they are better than motorized, expensive ones. From newfangled rowers to step machines, Americans are eager to pay big bucks for a better body.