Curves has made a tremendous difference in my life - all for the better!  When I went to the doctor in June 2002, my big complaint was my worsening osteo-arthritis.  I was in this downward spiral of being too achey and stiff to exercise, causing me to move less, causing me to become even more stiff and more achey (and overweight!).  I felt like the "tin man", badly in need of an oiling. Horseback riding was becoming harder and more dangerous for me as my weakening, siffening body was less and less able to control and keep up with my feisty little horse, Magic.  I had given up tennis, and I hardly danced at weddings or other dinner-dance occasions anymore, because I was just too sore and stiff.  The doctor noted that my cholesterol was creeping up, and she said, while she could prescribe drugs for the arthritis, what I really needed to do was exercise and lose weight.  I wasn't happy with those orders!  I didn't know how I was going to exercise without causing myself a lot of pain, and I knew from (lots of) experience that "dieting" without exercise would never let me achieve lasting weight loss.

And then I saw an ad for Curves in the newspaper!  It was the answer to my problem!  My sister had joined Curves the year before and had had wonderful success with the program.  She had taken me for two workouts when I had visited her, so I knew it was something I could easily do and enjoy.

And here I am now - five and a half years after joining Curves - and I am still thoroughly enjoying my 3-to-5-times-a-week workouts.  I've lost and kept off more than 25 pounds and 25 inches, I've gone from a size 12 to a size 6, and my cholesterol has dropped to an acceptable level.  I dance a lot now, and I can't believe how the half hour a day at Curves continues to liven and loosen me up.  No more "tin man"!  And thanks to my increased strength, balance and stamina, my horseback riding has improved immensely.  My trainer and my barn buddies often remark about the improvement, and my horse is so much happier with her balanced, steady rider.  My energy level has remained higher than it was in my pre-Curves days, and of course, it does wonders for my self-confidence to hear people say how great the weight loss looks.

So I offer my sincerest thanks to all of the Curves staff!  You've made a huge difference in my health and in my life!