Curves brings in award-winning senior exercise program

Joyce Norris, fitness technician at Curves of Greencastle, left, and Rhonda Louderback, owner of Curves, center, show SilverSneakers member, Margie Smith, how to effectively use one of the many strength-building machines available to all members. SilverSneakers is a new program offered by Curves to help promote physical health among older women at no cost.

Curves of Greencastle is rolling out the red carpet to members of the award-winning Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program. It has been called the nation's leading exercise program designed for older adults.

"We are so pleased to welcome local SilverSneakers members to Curves of Greencastle," said club owner Rhonda Louderback. "I think it is excellent for individuals who think about getting some exercise but are concerned with the cost."

The perk of SilverSneakers program is no initial enrollment fee or monthly fee to join. Individuals 65 and older can exercise at Curves of Greencastle with absolutely no cost to them.

The money she would be saving with the program was enough for Margie Smith of Greencastle to join SilverSneakers. Since originally joining Curves four years ago, Smith has been delighted with her results.

"I can now touch my toes," Smith said proudly of her increased flexibility. "I was amazed."

Smith has lost 25 and one-half inches and 9 pounds of body fat by gaining muscle, explained Louderback. Curves works every major muscle group with a complete 30-minute workout that combines strength training and sustained cardiovascular activity through safe and effective hydraulic resistance. It also works to help women lose weight, gain muscle strength and aerobic capacity and raise metabolism.

"It is recommended members exercise three times per week and Margie is there most of the time," Louderback commented.

Smith explained her reason for joining was simple.

"My mother was a diabetic and I was heading that way," she said. "I had to do something."

When Smith joined Curves, she was pleased to find the staff helpful and other members friendly.

"They walked me through it the first time and answered any questions after that," Smith said.

The benefits of a daily workout are tremendous. Curves offers 30-minute fitness routines, weight management programs and the support of staff and other members.

"It helps fight osteoporosis because it works those bones," Smith added.

Louderback encourages anyone interested in joining to check with the insurance company and bring an insurance identification card when signing up.

"A lot of insurance companies promote wellness programs," Louderback said.

She also suggested anyone with transportation problems should call the Putnam County Rural Transit, which makes rounds throughout the county, stopping at various points to pick up and drop off riders.

To schedule a ride, call 848-1508 and for $.75 one-way rides or $15 for a monthly pass, get a great work out.

Curves of Greencastle, 1285 S. Jackson St., Suite B, is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 to 7 p.m.; and Saturday from 8 to 11 a.m.

For more information or questions about membership to Curves or to the Healthways SilverSneakers programs, call 653-6065 or visit www.silversneakers.com