Curves for cardio

[pokkeyy]

Not sure how world wide (or even US wide it is) but I am curious about the opinion on Curves for women. As a strength coach, I find it necessary to be up-to-date on all fitness and health fads. I had heard great things about Curves (for the average female population) and read the books. It is across the street from me, so my best friend and I decided to share a membership. I realized that I wasn’t getting much in terms of muscle (kinda knew that going in but thought I would check it out anyway) but I still got my heart rate up there. I work out at work but I don’t get there till 330 (and don’t get my workout in till about 7). I would like to do cardio in the am and strength in the pm but the way it is now, it isn’t feasible. So I thought maybe I would go to Curves in the am (since the membership is going to waste anyway) and do weights at night. For anyone that knows about Curves or the concept behind it, what is your opinion on that? I guess I am debating the drawbacks- you are using resistance equipment so will it affect the recovery of muscles I may have exhausted the night prior, is it long enough to be an effective cardio workout, ect… Just curious of opinions…
* I am trying to cut right now (in case that makes a difference in opinion)

 

[Prana]

hey pokkeyy, I went to see curves (my mom works out there). my opinion is that it may be good for the average woman but not for anyone who is serious about bbing or figure for that matter. I think the hype is because these (mostly middle aged) women come in there, start working for the first time in their lives, lose weight (OBVIOUSLY), and then give the credit to curves!! I think after the inital weight loss plateaus will arise, and fast. and for cardio in am, weights at night, bad idea IMO because the curves machine incorporate the whole body in the exercises so the muscles won't get recovery if you work them every day - and no recovery = no growth!! and the resistance would plateau as well wouldn't it? I never actaully used the machines, just watched those ladies go round and round for 20mins.

Just my opinion pokkeyy, my admit curves is great for my mom, I just wouldn't go myself!