Curves lives up to its name for women clients
Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008
A not-so-secret society steeping with femininity, laughter, friendship and an occasional dose of harmless gossip has been brewing in Siloam Springs for the past six years. Curves at 1201 Highway 412 West in Plaza 1 is a hub for women of all ages to convene for structured exercise, conversation, moral support and direction for healthy living.
In December, Gina VanDyck responded to a newspaper advertisement that stated the local franchise of the international chain was for sale. A proponent for health and female empowerment, VanDyck jumped at the opportunity, made the necessary phone calls and by early February found herself fully submerged as the owner of the local chapter.
"I bought this as a business adventure and to help me get healthier," VanDyck said. "I'm still learning a lot but am so excited to be here and be part of it."
VanDyck and her family moved to Siloam Springs two years ago. She was familiar with Curves as she had started the Sand Springs branch in Tulsa prior to moving. The original franchise owner, Glynda Starkey, had been commuting to the local store since it opened in 2004 and, while she enjoyed the business, decided it was time for a life change.
"Curves has absolutely proven that 30 minutes three times a week will do it," VanDyck, quick to attest to the success of the enterprise, said. "We recommend walking in between visits but it isn't required of the program."
Weekdays from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 7 p. m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon, the doors to Curves are open to members and curious female passersby.
If not being assisted and encouraged by a bubbly VanDyck in her track suit and tennis shoes, Curves attendees are guaranteed to be greeted by one of the gym's other four employees.
"On someone's first visit we show them around, take them on a free tour, do a figure analysis and set realistic goals," VanDyck said. "If they sign up we show them how to work the machines and help them get started."
The Curves gym, custom designed to work with women's physical strengths and capabilities, includes cardio mats and hydraulic strength training equipment for both the upper and lower body. The circuit workout that takes 30 minute to complete is designed to work every muscle in the body and raise the exerciser's heart rate and metabolism, Van Dyck said.
The local gym currently has more than 100 members ranging from age 12 to 87.
"We have members from all walks," VanDyck said. "We have a lot of people who have been coming here for years, have lost a lot of weight and keep coming to maintain."
Older members find that the three times per week workout helps them stay limber and toned, VanDyck said.
"Everyone here has been so nice, and we have some really great people," VanDyck said. "Getting up early has been a bit of a challenge for me but my 6 a.m. crowd of ladies are really neat."
At any given time, 20 members may be working out on the circuit. Siloam Springs Curves'mornings are busy with up to 12 members ready to exercise when the doors open, Van Dyck said.
Flexibility is key to members. No appointments are required to work out.
Wearing tennis shoes and yoga pants, members tour the circuit listening to a Curves soundtrack that reminds them to change stations and check their pulse rates.
Membership fees are $ 34 plus tax per month with a joining fee of $ 149. In May, a "bring a buddy "incentive program will launch that will allow new members to get half off the initial fee if they bring a friend.
In addition to the guided workout regime, members are offered a six week diet plan tailored toward different dietary needs. The food plan, at no additional charge to Curves members, includes guides toward healthier eating and detailed menus that include foods that may be purchased independently at the grocery store.
"I started the exercise part on Feb. 11 and within two and a half weeks had lost six pounds," VanDyck said. "I'm starting the diet part with it now. It works either way but the meal plan definitely helps it come off more quickly."
One new member who is on both the diet and exercise regime lost 12 pounds in the past month and three inches off her abdomen, Van Dyck said.
"We weigh and measure once a month but there's no real pressure," Van Dyck said. "Some people who are just working on maintaining aren't worried about weighing so they don't."
Curves is a girls'club that is absolutely off limits to male counterparts. It's a place for women to cast self-consciousness aside, accept natural flaws, not worry about walls flanked by mirrors, and snub mascara wands.
"In April I will be adding three new machines to the circuit," VanDyck said. "I plan to keep improving the place."
At Curves, women are encouraged to claim pride in their femininity and inspired to become healthy examples for their daughters, granddaughters, sisters and friends.
"Curves is a social event for so many people," VanDyck said. "The ladies talk and visit and we have a really good time while we're working out."
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