Help me choose Curves vs Fitness Center

[geetey]

I have decided to add some weight training to my workout routine. It will be very convenient since my 2 kiddos go back to school Aug 18th, and I drive by several Curves locations, as well as the Fitness center location each way. But which should I chose?

I am interested in Curves because it sounds like a fun quick way to get in some weight training. I have two friends who have joined recently and they love it. I am not really interested in a yearly membership because I know going in the summer months will be difficult because of my dh's work schedule, Curves' hours, no child care provided at location. The price is high - $149 plus tax for 3 months. I could sign for the annual contract at $88 downpayment (1st month plus weigh/measurements) plus a $29 monthly draft.

I am interested in the Fitness Center (it is located at my dh's work) because they have a top-notch facility with a trainer on hand at all times. They also have treadmills, elliptical runners, etc to help train for the 1/2 marathon (if I can go). No friends allowed though since the facility is for employees and spouses only. Cost - $8 a month, with 24 hour access.

Is there anyone who has done weight training in a gym and at Curves? Do you get the same results? Should I start at Curves and then move to the Fitness Center?

Ugh! I hate when I can't make up my mind! Any and all opinions welcome!!

 

[webray]

For that cost difference and a trainer on hand...I would use the center at your hubbys work. Yes, you will get the same results...the trainer can make out a great plan for you, help you learn the correct way to do the exercises.

 

[lmhall2000]

A savings of $21 dollars a month not to mention the sign up fee of $88 well in a year you'll save $340!! That's a bunch of new clothes for the very fit body!! Or that's a Hoopdedoo for a family of 6. I love the trainers at the YMCA- everyone is supportive and I love seeing the regulars and their "You're looking Good!!" It really boosts me up. I like the versatility of having a personal trainer and all the nautilus- they can tailor make you a routine that you can check off each time you go and change your goals about every 3 months- you'll be amazed at how much stronger you feel! And the treadmill really helps kick up that speed for the marathon- I am SOOO counting on you being there!! Can you believe it? We'll be under 150 AND at Disney- what better way to spend that $340!
Let us know- and if you want I'll be your workout buddy- I walk alot but need to make a habit of hitting the nautilus machines more than 1x a week!
Tara

 

[minniecarousel]

As a devout Curves member (& with family that owns 2 centers) I gotta say: GO TO THE FITNESS CENTER! For that amount of $$, that's what I'd choose. Curves is great, mainly because it's women only & gets those of us who would not otherwise exercise to exercise! You have a terrific option - take it! (sorry - didn't mean to sound bossy - good luck on your decision!)

 

[anniet]

Wow, I expected a lot of people to say Curves and I thought I was going to be the odd one saying FITNESS CENTER!!! I agree that Curves is pretty much designed for those who would otherwise not exercise. I think Curves is great for that demographic, but I think their may be a cut off point where you will desire more of a challenge (long runs on a treadmill, or bike, heavier weights to lift) I think the answer is Fitness Center- be certain to take advantage of the trainer too!!!! They are fountains of fitness knowledge!!!!!.

 

[TigH]

I think where ever you will feel the most comfortable is important. Will you feel as comfortable working out at the fitness center (is it unisex?) than at Curves? I would go with the Fitness Center for the cost and also the other great things you mentioned! If there are trainers there then that is a plus because you can get some great tips from them about how often to work out, how many days to rest between workouts, the correct form to use when lifting weights or using any of the machines they have.

I think it's a GREAT idea that you are wanting to try weight lifting. I can't say enough good things about it!!! It has really changed my shape. We were just looking at some photos from the past few years (at my parents house) and while I wasn't really heavy in most of them, my arms were so flabby and shapeless. Now they are tight and tone looking, and I really like that. There are just so many wonderful benefits to weight training! And if you practice using free weights at the fitness center and then have to take some time off from going there to work out, you can always look into getting some free weights (adjustable hand weights) to use at home to work out there too.

 

[Disneyaholic]

Go to the one where you feel most comfortable. This is probably the one you will use most regularly and have the best results!

 

[geetey]

Thanks for all of the replies! I have to admit that I am surprised that the Fitness Center 'won' with so many Curves people here. The Fitness Center is unisex but based on the time I will likely be going (after dropping off the kids at school) most of the people will be leaving the locker area and heading to work. I will basically have Joey (the trainer) and the Center to myself.

Even though I want to work out with my friends, the Fitness Center really is the more sensible choice for me! Thanks for helping me see that!

 

[NancyIL]

I'm too lazy and cheap to go to Curves or a gym! I bought some books by Joyce Vedral on working out with weights. Next - I ordered some of her videos from www.joycevedral.com - and I try to work out at home at least every other day. I admit - it's easy to get sidetracked at home...as I sit here DISing instead of exercising!

 

[cajunfan]

Hi Geetay!

Found you!!! WOWOWOW!!! I didn't realize that you have lost 50 lbs! I knew it was a lot. Anyway, wanted to say hi, and to tell you that you have definelaty INSPIRED me to lose the extra weight.

 

[geetey]

Originally posted by cajunfan
Hi Geetay!

Found you!!! WOWOWOW!!! I didn't realize that you have lost 50 lbs! I knew it was a lot. Anyway, wanted to say hi, and to tell you that you have definelaty INSPIRED me to lose the extra weight.

Hey there, Lynn!!
Welcome to the WISH boards!! It's amazing how many pounds I can pack in and 'hide', eh? Okay - so they weren't really hiding! LOL! No fair taking any pokes

at me while I am still sore from lifting weight. I got enough last night at school!
I hope you hang around WISH and get inspired. It's the best board on the DIS!!

 

[Jiminy102]

I love curves!!!! But when you look at the cost!!!! GO FOR FITNESS CENTER!!!!! Much Much cheaper!!!!