Hi... just began my weight loss program a couple of weeks ago, and was wondering what everyone thought about going to a Women's gym...like Curves or Contours, that have a circuit of 16 - 18 stations, that alternate between cardio and machine stations that work specific muscle groups. I don't have many options as I live in a small rural community, but there are a couple of these fitness places within a 40 min. drive that I thought I might try out. Would like to have some input, will it be worth my money and my drive...?
Thanks,
Kim

Well I am a manly man so I dont know firsthand about womanhood but I know about circuit training and about Curves so let me share

Circuit training is a very interesting concept, but the problem is its usually not executed very well and becomes sort of a novelty. The premise is that you are lifting weights, however, by moving from one machine to the next quickly, resting little, and keeping your heart rate up you can also get the benefits of a cardio workout, essentially making this a 2 for 1. The reality is that the strength training you get is not the best, although it should get you some strength and endurance gains at first, its not intense enough for serious progress. And while your heart rate stays elevated, it really doesn't stay at levels comparable to a real cardio workout (120 with circuit versus 150 with cardio, give or take). That being said...

A friend of my Mom's has been going to Curves like 3-4 times a week for the past two or three months and has dropped about 20 pounds. So it's not a total waste of time by any means. And I would assume that their support team is professional and helpful, which makes for a great environment to foster long term progress in. My verdict would be that if you are starting out, and especially if your options are limited, then Curves would be a worthwhile investment. However, if you are trying to do more serious workouts, need to lose fat fast, or put on muscle, you might be better off investing in a home gym (quite affordable to start off.) Hope this helps.

My mother in law goes to Curves and loves it. She's losing weight and toning up. I think that if you would feel self-concious in a regular gym and don't want to buy your own equipment, it's a great idea. People here seem to really think it's fun and look forward to going.

Personally, Curves is not my thing, however my mom goes and she loves it. She has struggled with her weight for years and she hates exercising. Curves is something she can finally stick to and the weight is finally starting to come off. I think circuit training is an excellent choice for women who don't want to do traditional "weight training". It will definitely speed up your metabolism at the very least.

I've known several people that has tried Curves and the concensus is that it is great in the beginning but it get's very boring real fast. Not enough variety and after awhile not very challenging. It's great for people that are just starting out that want to a program but I wouldn't sign a contract with them, go for the higher month to month fee. Also, I would consider the 40 minute drive you would have to make to get there. If you have to work to get to your gym chances are you will come up with all kinds of excuses to put it off. My gym is less than 10 minutes away from my house and I go 5 - 6 times a week and I think I've kept at it because it is so convenient for me.

hi, thanks for all your opinions. I have been away for a week or so, with daughter doing college tours, so haven't had time to even read here at the forums. Been doing well, though since I started here the end of Feb. Have lost about 10lbs. I ended up joining the Contours gym... it's a bit different from the Curves one, as besides the circuit, it also has treadmills, elipticals, and stationary bikes.. which all add to the workout. The circuit training machines also have adjustable weight levels that you can increase as you improve, which is different from the Curves machines that run with hydraulics. I have also found a girlfriend who goes with me, so the company is nice to have on the drive and it is more motivating when going with another person. I do however, have my own stationary bike and manual treadmill to use at home when I don't get down to the fitness centre. Have also been trying to find the Body for Life book, as well. Anyways.. really appreciate all your input and the great incentives these forums provide.
Thanks John, for doing this.
Kim :)