Curves, an exercise facility, was first established in 1992 in Harlingen, Texas. Since then, the brand and the centers have exploded into the mainstream fitness club market, with nearly 10,000 locations across the United States as of 2011, according to the company's website. Based upon the principles of a 30-minute workout, Curves is an appealing concept for both men and women. While Curves gyms are franchised, each has certain rules and regulations governing the admittance of men, however.
Purpose
Curves is a gym made to help women feel comfortable while circuit training. The Curves program also allows for meetings with weight loss counselors, support groups and events geared toward helping women gain confidence and health while losing weight. When you drive past a Curves gym, you'll notice there's a certain degree of privacy given, thanks to the company's signature purple blinds. The company believes in empowering women and providing a safe and comfortable environment for fitness.
Rules and Regulations
While it's true that each Curves center is franchisee-owned and can technically be governed using separate rules and regulations, a franchisee knows what sells. The vast majority of Curves centers do not allow men to workout in their facilities. This protects the marketing principles and purpose of the brand, which is strictly marketed toward women. Still, you may find some franchises that are open to men working out, especially at designated times when women aren't frequenting the gym.
Curves Plan
As a man, you may not be able to use most Curves gym, but that doesn't mean you can't reap the benefits of the Curves workout plan. The workout is basically a 30-minute circuit that combines strength training and cardiovascular activity in order to help women become fitter. The American Council on Exercise notes that the circuit burns about 184 calories, making it a moderately intense workout. By setting up a variety of exercises you can complete in a regular gym or at home, you can try the Curves circuit without actually being in the center.
Men-only Gyms
Since Curves is quite predominantly populated by females, a variety of men-only gyms have cropped up in answer to Curves' popularity. Registering with a men-only gym can help you feel more confident about working out without worrying about how you look to women at the gym. While men-only gyms aren't yet popular or mainstream, you can check with your city's chamber of commerce to find a gym that caters mostly to men.
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