Every New Year – more accurately every day – we tell ourselves to eat less and exercise more. We sign up for gym memberships and buy new workout gear. Months pass by, you never go, you feel guilty, and then cancel membership. Sound familiar?

Well, ladies, it’s time to head on over to your local Curves.

Founded in 1992 by Texan couple Gary and Diane Heavin, Curves is noted as being the fastest growing franchise in history, and the world’s largest fitness franchise. With over 10,000 locations worldwide, there are two to choose from right in your neighborhood.

Curves is a fitness and weight-loss facility designed for women.

Here’s the skinny: 30-minute workout, three times a week for maximum results. There’s no food deprivation; no need to feel overwhelmed and intimidated by bulky machines, big bodybuilders, and beautifully toned people who look like fitness models.

The best part about Curves is the fun, encouraging and completely non-threatening atmosphere. These are women with different body types, ages ranging from teens to 80s. You’re not being judged for how you look, how much weight you can lift, or how long you can run.

In fact, most women who join have never been a part of any kind of exercise program. Many women have injuries or health conditions that prohibit them from engaging in any kind of rigorous exercise regimen. And let’s face it, even those of us without such challenges shy away from joining the gym.

The program combines cardio and strength training that works every major muscle group. In a single workout you can burn up to 500 calories. The stations are set up in a circle, like musical chairs. You alternate between hydraulic machines and running stations every 30 seconds after a voice prompt that kindly reminds you, “Change stations now.” Two times around the circle is a 30-minute workout.

Neen Duggin, Ballard resident of more than 25 years, is the manager of Curves in Ballard and Crown Hill. She loves the atmosphere and the people. She sees that Curves works.

“Some people leave but most come back. They realize they’re Curves people,” she said. “Everything is set up and it’s easy.”

Schedule a free fitness assessment. You get a tour, see how the machines work, and you can try a workout for free.

Membership includes a joining fee and a monthly due of $39, plus tax. However, Curves is always having special promotions that waive your joining fee, such as a bag of groceries for a food drive, or proof of a mammogram during breast cancer awareness month. Once a member, you get a travel pass for any Curves location.

Marketing Manager Linda Broderick said, “Women cut back on things that feel like a perk in tough economic times, but that’s the worst thing you can do. In times like these you need to focus on health and well-being.”

Curves markets itself as being not just about the workout, but also physical, mental and emotional well-being. There’s also a free monthly weight management meeting open to the public.

Curves’ mission is to strengthen women, and its motto: The power to amaze yourself. Empower yourself; find camaraderie and support from your fellow Ballard women. Let’s make healthy living not just a fleeting resolution but a lifelong goal.

What:
Curves

Where:
2821 N.W. Market St., Ste. F
www.curves.com
206-789-1965

When:
Hours: Mon/Wed 6am-8pm, Tue/Thu/Fri 6am-7pm, Sat 7am-1pm

Where:
10033 Holman Rd. N.W., Ste. 811
206-783-1556

When:
Hours: Mon/Wed/Fri 5:45am-7pm, Tue/Thu 5:45am-8pm, Sat 7am-3pm