GOODRICH – Wouldn’t it be great if an hour and a half workout could be done in a half an hour? At Curves for Women, it can. Trina Rakay and Terri Beckwith opened the doors to the newest Curves in the area Dec. 9, 2002.
The women met through a friend who boarded her horse with Beckwith. The word spread to Rakay, who was searching for a place to board her horse as well.
As soon as the two Fenton natives met, there was an instant connection. That was seven years ago. Since then, their bond developed not only into a friendship, but into a business relationship.
Rakay, a mother of five children and nurse, was exercising at a Curves for Women in Linden after the birth of her last child. The idea of opening up her own branch entered her head and she introduced the concept to Beckwith. From there, idea became reality.
“We scouted this area and many others trying to find an ideal location. We found this building and asked the owner, Dr. Mark Clark, if he would lease the space to us and he agreed,” said Rakay. “Not only is Goodrich a growing community, but it’s a nice one with good people.”
In addition to having a partnership with Rakay, Beckwith also is an interpreter for the hearing impaired. “I have always loved working with people. I truly enjoy seeing people happy and I think that everyone has something special to offer.”
In order to become owners, the women had to travel to Waco, Texas for an intense one-week training process. There they learned the importance of proper nutrition, basic kinesiology, diet solutions, and public relations.
Currently, there are 5,000 stores nationwide and each is independently owned. Founder and CEO Gary Heavin has extended the idea worldwide.
The concept of Curves is original. At this particular branch, there are eight stations. The individual rotates around the stations every few minutes, getting a complete workout in thirty minutes. Each machine uses hydraulic resistance instead of weights and is based on a push-pull system, rather than a lifting and lowering system, which can be strenuous on the body.
“Each person really designs their own workout. You push your body to the limit you’re comfortable with,” Rakay said.
Both recommend starting at two or three days a week and advancing from there.
“It’s always good to have something to work up to. You really don’t want to initially come every day because your body may not be used to it. When you feel you’re ready, then you can increase the workout to four or five days a week if you wish,” said Beckwith.
Of the 60 clients that pass through the doors daily, ages ranging from 14-76, many are surprised with their results.
“We try to make this a positive environment, instead of someone dreading the fact that they have to exercise. Each person receives individual instruction and attention, as well as encouragement,” Beckwith said.
“When you work out here, it’s not the type of workout for you to get bored or intimidated. It really does work,” said Rakay. “If you’re feeling scared because you have never exercised, or just want to get back into it, call us. We will help you and will design a program that suits you. It’s a great cardio workout in only thirty minutes.”
The Guinness Book of World Records named Curves for Women the world’s largest fitness franchise, and Beckwith and Rakay stand by their motto of “helping women to lose excess pounds and inches while acquiring the habit of exercise.”
Curves is offering a six-week weight loss program. Each client will receive a workbook charting their routine. They offer before and after pictures, and a weigh in and measure every week. Also at this time, a 60 percent discount is being offered on the first visit.
Curves for Women is located at 7477 State Road (M-15). Telephone is (810) 636-7100.