The Curves diet plan is a weight-loss program for women that utilizes both dietary restrictions and exercise to raise your body's metabolism so you can lose weight more easily and keep it off over the long term. Although this diet requires both resistance training and cardiovascular exercise, its exercise requirements are not burdensome.
History
Curves was founded in Texas in 1992 as a women-only fitness gym complete with an early version of the exercise regimen now included in the Curves 30-day diet plan. Its unique approach, expressed succinctly by its motto "no makeup, no men, and no mirrors" made it especially appealing to women. In 1995, Curves became a franchise, and has since opened 10,000 outlets in 70 countries. As of 2010, Curves had over four million members.
Diet Regimen
The Curves diet regimen is based on a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. Two alternatives exist: the carbohydrate-sensitive plan and the calorie-sensitive plan. During Phase I, the carbohydrate-sensitive plan limits carbohydrates to 20 g per day. The calorie-sensitive plan limits calories to 1,200 per day, and limits carbohydrates to 60 g per day. After two weeks, participants move into Phase II, during which the carbohydrate-sensitive plan limits carbohydrates to 40 to 60 g per day, while the calorie-sensitive plan limits calories to 1,600 per day. Phase II continues until the goal weight is reached.
Exercise Regimen
The Curves exercise regimen is structured: participants spend 30 minutes doing circuit training that utilizes weight training routines on weight machines at a Curves facility, alternating with light aerobic exercise. Exercise is continuous throughout a 25-minute period, and trainers stand by to provide assistance and motivation. The last five minutes of the workout consist of stretching exercises. The weight training workout includes two exercises for each of the body's six major muscle groups. Participants complete a circuit of 12 exercises, and then repeat the circuit. The dieter must pay for a membership at Curves to participate in this part of the diet.
Independent Evaluations
At least two independent entities have evaluated the Curves program. The Exercise & Sport Nutrition Laboratory Exercise & Sport Nutrition Laboratory, operating at Texas A&M University, performed a number of studies, collectively known as the Curves Women's Health Initiative. The studies found the Curves program to be generally effective in promoting strength and aerobic capacity, reducing the size of participants' waists and hips, and reducing blood pressure and cholesterol. An American Council on Exercise study examined only the workout program and found it to be "a good time-efficient, low- to moderate-intensity exercise program." Its main reservation was that because of its relatively low intensity, the Curves program is more suitable for otherwise sedentary women than for active women.
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