Originally published August 7 2005
Curves is good for out of shape women, but not for fit women, says study
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
New research has stated that Curves, an international women's-only gym chain, provides exercise that is good for women trying to become fit but does not provide enough resistance training for women who are already fit.
Curves' signature 30-minute workout burns 184 calories and qualifies as moderate-intensity exercise, similar to a half-hour treadmill walk at 4 mph, according to a new study commissioned by San Diego-based American Council on Exercise.
Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse put Curves to the test, evaluating 15 women, ages 26-55, as they completed the 30-minute circuit, alternating between 12 resistance exercises on nonadjustable hydraulic machines and marching in place for 30 seconds.
The workout included a five-minute cool-down and stretching session.
Researchers concluded that Curves provides aerobic training with total-body resistance exercise, although it may not be intense enough for already active women.
Plus, Curves' social, female-only atmosphere had some members chewing the fat more than burning it, the researchers observed.
If you're a fitness newbie, Curves may be a great place to start.
To keep progressing, though, you'll need more variety.
A fitness program should change every three months to maximize results, says Robyn Stuhr, exercise physiologist for the Women's Sports Medicine Center at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.
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