Success
Stories | July 2005
Success Stories
Maureen's Success Story
Curves Has Given Me Back My Life
 Curves has helped me lose 126 pounds, so far. When I found Curves I was in a battle for my life. The pool I was swimming at became a non-option because the chlorine exacerbated my asthma. I could barely walk and my arthritic knees made it impossible to do anything but swim. I felt defeated and knew if I stopped my weight loss, that I would gain back my lost weight and add to it, which would bring me up to near 350 pounds.
I swam 17-hours a week. When I went into Curves I was told that it was a 30-minute program that, when done three times a week, would yield results toward reaching my goal of loosing weight and muscle development. I was skeptical but I tried it. I needed to do something but I didn't know if my body could handle this type of exercise but I was willing to sign up and give it a try.
When I first started I was not flexible enough to bend my legs to get them into the leg press machine. I required help to get into that machine and I got that help from a willing staff. I needed help with the hip abductor/adductor because my legs were too large to fit in the space provided. The trainers showed me how to use the machine effectively. I had to do my stretching on two chairs because I could not reach the floor. The staff worked with me in a non-judgmental way and never flinched when they weighed and measured me. The first time the machine was able to measure my body fat and BMI the staff were as happy for me as I was for myself. I felt like the staff was right there with me when my legs finally fit into the machines, when I was able to get onto the floor and as I lost every pound and inch. They cheered me on every step of the way.
I have now lost enough weight to move from a size 4x to a medium. One more size and I will wear a small. Dare I think in such terms? I ride my bike all over the place. I can see my muscles working when I cycle or kayak. The first time I went ocean kayaking I was encouraged by Curves staff. I am getting so much stronger. I have confidence going through turnstiles, sitting on chairs and standing on my feet. I no longer worry about getting on a plane or sitting in a restaurant. I am a more social person and happier with myself. I am now a can-do person and no longer a can't-do person. I now have a quality of life that I enjoy. Exercise is no longer a four-letter word to me.
Curves is more than an exercise program. It's a people program "with the power to amaze yourself". I love Curves so much and believe in their techniques that I decided to work for Curves. I wanted to be able to work with others to attain the same successes that I have attained. The program is backed up by science and success. It has given me back my life.
By Maureen Duffy-Burrows
Beautiful Oak Bay, Victoria, B.C
Member Since October '03
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