Curves

cynthia07bride

Im not exactly comfortable with being in a gym full of in-shape people who know exactly how to use all the equipment so I figured I would try Curves. I was wondering if anyone on here has tried it and had success? I'm getting married June 18th and just want to tone up my lower body and focus on my arms!

MyWedding13

I think that is a great idea! I used to go to a gym like that with my Mom back in the day and found it was helpful. I just wish they had more cardio equipment that you can do in additon to their workout. But, I think it is great for toning!

raynes

I tried it, but it wasn't for me.  I didn't feel like I was getting a good enough workout.

As for the gym, trust me, hardly anyone really knows what they're doing, plus, everyone was a beginner once, so don't let that scare you away!  In my experience, most people are way too involved in their own workouts to notice other people.

GoodLuckBear14

The trainers at my gym explained that the problem with curves is that there isn't enough there.  You go on a circuit and their idea of changing it up is to go in reverse (never been to Curves so I don't know if this is true).  The trainers change my routine every four weeks so I'm not using the same muscles in the same way.

alyss21mom

Curves may not be the best gym, but if it is where you feel comfortable and you are more likely to go, then it is a good choice.   Another low key option to check out are community centers.  Ours has a nice gym, the price is right and the atmosphere is friendly.  Most gyms offer the services of a trainer.  I hired one at first and it made all the difference.  He showed me how to use the equipment, proper technique, etc.  After about 6 weeks, I felt comfortable striking out on my own.  Good luck.

em01092

I know how you feel. I get self conscious too when I see super in shape people beside me on the elliptical. Just try not to pay attention to them. I used to compare myself to all of the skinny girls, but everyone works at their own pace and style. Like PPs said, people zone out at the gym a lot. Strut in there like you own the place and do your thing!

smokeybailey

Maybe an all-woman gym would work for you.  Here in CA, we have gyms called Total Woman.  I don't know about ID but that's something to look into.

Oh, and don't worry about all the skinny people in the gym; they aren't paying attention to you...unless you don't wipe down your machine.  Then they will get righteous on your ass.

Also...I just mentioned this post to my FI and we both agreed that you should go to the gym and get a trainer.  Get a routine and follow the nutrition plan.  He believes a good diet withouth excercise is more effective than training without nutirion. But you really need both.  Anyway, good luck.  You are now on the 10 week plan!

angelsong21

Personally I would not recommend Curves.  It is a VERY light workout.

I found a gym where I live that is small and privately owned.  The people there genuinely care about your fitness goals, never make you feel ridiculous as a newby, and overall are very supportive.  But everyone else is right -- people DO zone out at the gym.  I used to be a member of a huge gym years ago and was intimidated to sign up, but seriously...no one notices.  Good luck!

feinicstine

I've done Curves three times.  Once when I came back from my freshman year of college and had never formally worked out before, then again my junior year of college when a friend wanted to, and again after college.  The first two times, I loved it.  Unfortunately, when I was at college I started going to the gym with a friend who is in the Army and he taught me what I should be doing and made me go consistently.  After working out in a "normal" gym, Curves just does not pack the punch I need.

It is definitely awesome if you're a beginner and need something to point you in the right direction, plus it will get you used to a work out routine.  But, eventually you'll probably outgrow it.