After two weeks of watching the best athletes in the world, the Olympics is having a ripple effect in the fitness department.

It's the inspiration many need to put down the remote, get off the couch and get back in the game. Area health clubs and fitness equipment stores are crossing the finish line the winner.

At 24Hr Fitness in the Pearl District manager Colby Summer says he's seeing more foot traffic since the games began.

"A lot more people are excited about getting to their fitness goals," said Summer.

KING

A workout session on exercise equipment at a gym facility.

And since Michael Phelps' gold rush, it's had to find room in the fitness centers pool.

"Yesterday was the first time we actually had a back pile I should say as far as people waiting to get to the pool."

Many first-timers to 24Hr Fitness are taking advantage of a one on one training session with a personal trainer, hoping for quicker results.

Other who prefer to doing their sweating in private and purchasing fitness equipment for their home gyms.

"Always our big sellers, a lot of free weights, dumbbell packages" said Jacob McCormick, general manager at Northwest Fitness on NE Sandy Blvd. McCormick says american made tread mills are also big sellers. For those looking to emulate the U.S. Rowing team, a new water power rower is very popular.

But, it's the power of what people see that's also driving sales. The LeMond Revmaster was seen in the background during the games and now it's must have for some.

"I've had a lot more hits on that item since the Olympics whether it's coincidence or not i'm not sure," said McCormick.

But, what is for sure, inspiration is the greatest motivator to make a change for the better