Question:
A Contours or Curves question?

I joined a gym called Contours (similar to it's competition, Curves) a couple of weeks ago and I am really enjoying the 30 minute work out. It is a combination of cardio and light weights for resistance. Anyway, the owner claims that we burn 600 calories in a half hour. I find this REALLY hard to believe, actually. Do you think that it's true? I mean, I only consume 800 calories a day - When you do the math, that leaves me with a whopping 200 calories at the end of the day... After working out I feel perfectly fine, too. I was thinking that after burning that many calories I would feel weak but I don't, which is why I am having a hard time believing that I really burnt that many calories. I am curious to know what other opinions are. Thanks everybody!!    — Kim W. (posted on August 3, 2003)

August 3, 2003
I used to go to Curves, and I was under the impression it was more like 250-350 calories (depending on your weight). I know that when I work out on an elliptical trainer..somewhat vigorously I burn 10 calories a minute...so usually a half hour equals 300 calories. If you want to make absolutely sure...got to fitday.com and see if you can calculate it out. Don't worry about the amount of calories, I found that Curves was an excellent exercise routine up until I got closer to my goal weight...then switched to a regular gym to increase my weights. Hope this helps you.
   — missmollyk

August 3, 2003
how many calories you burn in an hour is dependent on your weight. How much to you weigh? I burn a lot fewer calories now then I did when I was 372 pounds... its a lot harder now.. *grin*. I burn about 600/700 in about 45 minutes on the elliptical trainer most days... but I have to work very hard for that... in addition to fitday (which I don't think takes your weight into considerationn) you might try http://www.caloriesperhour.com. Good luck!
   — Lisa C.

August 4, 2003
I have a question concerning Curves. I'm on a tight budget, since I'm on disaility and was wondering if any of you could tell me what the cost of the Curves program runs for. They won't tell you this over the phone, as I am sure they want to give you the full sales pitch in person. I understand it's a good program, but I don't want to waste their's or my time if I can't afford it.
   — Rosa F.

August 4, 2003
Thanks to all who answered! I really appreciate it!! BTW; I Love Caloriesperhour.com, TOO COOL!!!
   — Kim W.

August 5, 2003
I dont do Curves but I do Walk Away the Pounds 2 Mile walk and when I calculated it on fitday it was about 200 cals in 30 mins however this doesnt take into account the use of the wts.For those who are looking for a low cost alternative I think this program is great and I just bought the 1,2 and 3 mile DVD set at Best Buy for 20 dollars plus a set of 3lb weighted balls(they use 2 lb water filled on the video)for $15.00.The video gives you a great cardio workout plus the wts, I love it.
   — Lisa F.