Cuervos

Today I have decided to lavish praise upon my favorite women's fitness facility: Curves. I love it for so many reasons that it's hard to decide where to begin. First of all, Curves offers the unique opportunity for women of all shapes, sizes, and ages (anywhere from 16 to 89 at my Curves) to work out without being gawked by anyone of the opposite sex. Personally, I find it much more relaxing knowing that no one is checking me out while I grunt and sweat.

When you arrive for a workout at Curves, you join the "circuit" at any location. The circuit consists of hydraulic resistance equipment (which are "specially designed for woman") arranged in a circle, with a "recovery board" in between each machine. The machines work all the major muscle groups. Because the machines are hydraulic, the workout never gets too easy, unless you get lazy. The harder you push, pull or press, the more resistance the machine gives you (the "Pec Dec" is pictured to the right). The purpose of the recovery station is to "recover," but people also run in place, dance, jump, etc., in order to keep their heart rates up. You remain at each station for 30 seconds (changing when a recorded voice tells you to) and go around the circuit twice (or more, but if you really think you're that tough, I'd like to see you try), for a nice 30-minute workout. Then you stretch.

Another aspect of Curves is being "weighed and measured" by one of the Curves trainers. On a designated day (give or take a few) each month, you have the option to be weighed, have your measurements taken, and your body fat percentage calculated. This is very helpful for those who are trying to lose weight, and interesting for those who are simply trying to become more fit. For those who are wishing to loose more than just a few pounds, they also have a specialized diet plan. And it really works.

In case I've persuaded you to go check out your local Curves (they're all over the world- even the smallest, grungiest towns have a Curves), they're doing the largest women's fitness study of all time, and you can go for 1 month for $30 (normal membership fees are about $34 a month, and there is also a one-time membership fee). So go get off your bottom and start moving!