Curves for Women: Another View

 

Curves for Women is an international chain of micro-gyms that offer resistance machines that target each of the body's muscle groups. Their program allows you to perform aerobic exercises and strength training at the same time. The machines use hydraulic resistance. There are no weights to add or pins to put into plates to change weights. The faster you move the more resistance you will feel.

There are usually 8 pieces of equipment in the circuit that target specific body parts. The workout combines muscle toning while increasing heart rate with the goal of burning fat, and improving your cardiovascular fitness. There is a squat machine, an abdominal machine, a leg extension machine, a shoulder press machine, a back machine, a leg press machine, an abductor machine and a biceps machine. The program moves you from station to station in the circuit and is directed by music and taped instruction. You are meant to go at a quick pace to keep your heart rate up. The goal for most women is to workout at 60% of their maximum heart rate, which is determined by taking your pulse regularly on the circuit.

Curves' hours of operation vary by location and are more restrictive than all the other gyms and health clubs that I have been to. There is a $149 one-time service fee to join and it is $29/month for a year. You can use any Curves for Women center location. If you choose to pay month to month the cost is $39, if the franchise offers it.

The equipment is pretty easy to use. It is designed to be pushed then pulled rather than lifting and lowering weights. If you are prone to injury, this seems like a safer way to workout. Curves for Women is clearly designed for older people and those new to exercise machines. You won’t find many fit, twenty year-olds there. Many times I wished there was a model of fitness there to provide motivation.

Curves for Women has no frills. It sells T-shirts, towels, energy drinks as well as a line of nutritional products such as powdered shakes and vitamins. The centers have one 800-1800 square foot room with a reception desk and 8 – 12 machines. Some of the larger centers have added a couple more pieces of equipment but none has more than 12 pieces. There is a changing area with private rooms, restrooms and a matted area for stretching.

I found a problem with overcrowding in these small facilities during the times I chose to workout. With only 8-12 machines, busy times of the day can lead to a significant extension in your 30-minute workout, not to mention the problem if one of the machines breaks, which is exasperating. Wait times drive me crazy, but that is rare.

Curves for Women is not for everyone. It is for workout beginners, older people and those with very limited time, as well as those who are intimidated by standard health clubs. An experienced health club user will not like Curves. The workouts are mundane and hard to stick to after a few weeks. Every time you workout, it's the same thing. But it was a good start.