IS CURVES ENOUGH????

I HAVE BEEN GOING TO CURVES RELIGIOUSLY THREE TIMES A WEEK SINCE MAY. WHEN I FIRST STARTED, IT WAS HUFF AND PUFF...VERY HARD....NOW IT SEEMS LIKE I DON'T EVEN BREAK A SWEAT. IS CURVES ENOUGH NOW OR DO I NEED TO DO SOMETHING ELSE? I NEED SOME SUGGESTIONS ON EXERCISES FOR THE LOOSE SKIN ON MY ARMS TOO...HELP!!!! ANY SUGGESTIONS????

Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do for loose skin anywhere on your body (well, besides plastic surgery). But as far as Curves is concerned (I've never been there myself, but have friends who are members), are you liomited to the number of circuits you can make? -Marcie

When you exercise we have to always increase the intensity or our bodies just adjust to what we are doing and although it keeps us healthy it doesnt really challenge our bodies in order to loose more weight or build stronger muscles. I also have reserves about curves because isn't it the same machines over and over? I like to mix it up with cardio and machines. I dont know too much about curves so maybe you do do that...maybe just increase the time on the machines or do more rounds of them? We have to keep challenging our bodies without overdoing it of course. At least this is what my fitness instructor tells me at the gym that I go to Keep chaing your routine so your body doesnt adjust and up the intensity level when its time. Best Wishes to you Elizabeth M

I used to do Curves also - and like you huff and puff and almost pass out after one circuit - but then my bod got used to the workout. I was able to maintain where I was - but no progress - and it was because I wasn't challenging my bod anymore. I changed to a full service gym for the variety of exercises that I can do. Machines, weights, swimming, running, etc. This has really helped and has made it so I don't seem to really plateau. You might try to 'push' yourself harder at Curves than you have in the past. If you have been marching or side steping on the boards, then switch to running in place. If you are already running, then use the board like a step and run up and down on the steps. The machines work off resistance - so the harder you try the harder they will resist. Don't let yourself become complacent with simply moving your body on the machines - really kick some butt - push and pull harder than you think you can. You'll most likely be able to get yourself huffing and puffing again. One last suggestion would be to see if you can add in one thing different to your exercise routine - like run/walk one day a week in addition to your Curves. Good luck and looks like you have established a habit that will last a lifetime - now we just have to learn to continually adjust those habits to see results. Leah 302/180/140ish

Thanks for all the suggestions. You guys are the greatest when I need support. Hoping everyone has a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year to come in 2005!