What happens on my first visit?

[cheryl71112]

Hi, I'm Cheryl and seriously considering joining Cuves, but would like someone to give me an idea of what happens when you first join. Also I wonder what happens on a typical visit. Any info will be very appreciated. Thanks !
Cheryl71112

[Oblio]

Hello, Cheryl! We're glad you found the Curves Forum, and look forward to hearing about the great time and successes you have at Curves!

Your first appointment: Depending on whether you've scheduled an appointment or just "dropped in", you'll likely have one of two experiences:
(a) a Terrific Curves Coach will describe the Curves program, ask you about your health and fitness goals, answer any remaining unanswered questions that you may have, and help you sign up. Your starting Weight & Measurements will either be taken at that time, or perhaps at your first workout.
or
(b) the above, plus, if you've scheduled an appointment, and are in comfortable workout clothing, you'll be guided through your first workout, to get familiar with the equipment!

That first appointment, even though we tend to worry, is really nothing to get anxious about. The whole Curves experience is all about support, information, helping you meet your goals, and making you feel welcomed.

Typical workout:
You'll arrive at your Curves club at whatever time is best for you, don't have to schedule particular times. The only little detail is that you'll want to become familiar with when your Curves closes, either for mid-day cleaning or end of the day. Make sure you arrive 30-40 minutes before closing so that you have time to get your workout done!

You'll pick a starting place on the circuit, usually a Recovery Station. If at all possible, leave one or two stations between you and the other members, just to allow time and space. You'll probably go around the circuit either 2 times or 2-1/2 times, depending on how many pieces of equipment are installed at your club. (The goal is 24-26 machines total.) After you've completed the circuit, you'll move to the stretching area, and you will do your post-exercise stretches. There's a terrific poster, showing each of the stretches and in recommended order. Promise you'll do your stretches after every workout.

If you don't already own some, invest in a pair of athletic shoes with excellent support .... it'll be the 2nd best investment you make (besides the investment in YOURSELF by joining Curves!)

Please ask a Curves Trainer to keep an eye on you, or follow you through the circuit on the first time or two you do the circuit on your own. You want to learn and remember proper form for each device early on, and establish effective habits! After two or three visits, you'll be a pro!

Then you'll focus on maximizing your workout:
1. Focus on form
2. Focus on full range of motion
3. Focus on full deep breathing, don't hold your breath
4. Focus on increasing the "oomph" of each motion
5. Focus on increasing the number of repetitions (while doing 1-4 above!)

Take some time to explore the rest of the Forum, including the FAQ. In particular, you'll want to read more posts in the "Getting Started" section and the "The Circuit" section.

Let us know how your appointment goes and your first workout!

[JanetT]

What an awesome response Oblio! You do Curves proud. One small comment: newer Curves may require 3 laps if they only have the basic 8 machines. Some very large Curves have enough machines (with duplicates) to require only one lap - imagine! The number of laps is not the important thing, it's the amount of time. Every workout is a 30 minute workout, including stretching. So you'll do however many laps are required to keep your workout to 30 minutes.

[Shortie1313]

I went to my first visit today. I went in on my lunch break and filled out all of the paper work and walked through the facility. Then came back after work to work out. Jody was awsome. She walked me through my entire work out all 3 laps. She even stretched with me when I was done. This was so motivatin!! I plan to go Mon - Fri.

[BeBlessed]

I had my first workout today, I felt great afterwards and got my heart rate up to 106 which was in range.
I did have to tell my PT to focus more on teaching me the machines and not gossip with the other lady doing the circuit. All in all I enjoyed it and can't wait till Wednesday. I'm also starting the HP Curves diet. Drank 64oz of water too.

[Nomojiggle]

I feel so proud of myself for finally picking up the phone and making an appointment! I really dont know what to expect, but just reading the posts on this forum are getting me motivated!!

[Razzy]

I too am now feeling very inspired. I have printed out a one week free trial for my local curves and will be scheduling a visit for monday. This program seems to be doable and is not intimidating. I like the idea of the half hour work out as well, as a student my time is limited. Can't wait for monday!!!!