Curves: Supporting Women for 25 Years

Who knew that Curves was in Shanghai? We did, and we decided to try it out so we could tell you what they’re about. This year is their 25th anniversary since they started in Texas, USA. Already with three locations in Shanghai and more in four other Chinese cities, they have plans to continue expanding in China.

So what is it? Curves is a 30 minute, total body workout on strength and training machines for women only. As a group, you basically do two rounds on a circuit of their strength machines. You do 30 seconds on, and 30 seconds off to rest and move to the next station. They also offer other group classes like cardio, boxing, zumba, body basics, and balance, to cater to your specific needs. As a member, you can go to as many classes as you like.

The machines are hydraulic, and the aim is to go as fast as possible while maintaining proper form in those 30 seconds. So you’re not lifting actual weights, but instead pushing against the resistance of the machine. In your 30 minute workout, you’ll work every major muscle group with strength training, cardio, and stretching.

There is music playing for you to move to the beat, and a coach in the middle of the circle encouraging you to get in one more rep. Curves goal is to supportive environment for women where you can gain strength, balance, and flexibility with the guidance of your coach.

In case you’re wondering if their workouts work, they just so happened to train Miss Universe China. So we think, yes.

Each machine is outfitted with Curves Smart Coaching System. Each member gets a little card, which you plug into the machine right before you start to use it. The machine will calibrate how hard you are working, and send that information to the card. Your goal is to reach the green zone on each machine, and at the end of the session you can review your work and see where you need to improve.

Curves Smart coaching system helps members keep themselves fully on track by providing customized motivation and instant feedback, increasing challenges and detailing muscles worked, calories burned, and more.

I decided to give their circuit a go, with the help of their coach to show me how to use each machine.

Each machine is a little different, with exercises for the muscles in your legs, arms, back, and core. In-between you step off onto a pad, where you jog in place or do jumping jacks to keep your heart rate up until you begin the next exercise.

Some of the machines looked a little tricky to use, so the coach showed me correct form. They targeted all of the muscle groups, and I can see how this would have you coming back for more. We ended with some light stretching on their handy dandy stretching machine.

Curves is a great option for those ladies just starting out in the fitness world who need more instruction and support. This isn’t a down and dirty boot camp workout, but a gentler approach to help you achieve a healthier lifestyle. They’re fully equipped with locker rooms, showers, and filtered water, so they have everything you need for a good sweat session and to get cleaned up after.

If you’d like to give Curves a try, they’re offering ShanghaiWow readers a free trial. All you have to do is add them on WeChat at Curves_China and send them the message "CurvesWorkout". You’ll receive an auto-reply for a single card to try it out. Alternatively, you can give them a call to get the card. 

Curves WeChat: Curves_China

People’s Square location: 23 West Beijing Road
Phone: [phone]

Fuxing location: 1199 Fuxing Middle Road, Mingyuan Plaza 
Phone: [phone]

Changning Location: No. 161, 465 Lane Zhenning Road, Yuyuan Li. No.8, F101
Phone: [phone]

WE ARE HIRING

We are looking for people who love life, food and travel to join our team! Currently we are recruiting for the following positions:

Nightlife Editor

Food & Wine Editor

Wellness & Fitness Editor

Proof Reader

Interns

Ideal candidates are talented, energetic and creative people who can work in a fast paced environment, and Chinese skills are a plus. 

Want to take on a challenge?

Please send your cover letter and CV to: 

[e-mail]

Related Articles