Obesity Is a Major Risk Factor for Arthritis
Exerpts from CURVESTM, Permanent Results Without Permanent Dieting
By Gary Heavin and Carol Colman
Contributed by Marlene Catlin, President of CURVESTM, Delmar

Lose Excess Weight
Obesity is a major risk factor for arthritis for obvious reasons - the more weight your joints must
support, the more likely they are to give out. Being overweight puts a tremendous strain on your hips, knees, and ankles. Studies have shown that even a relatively small reduction in weight can reduce your risk of developing osteoarthritis.

Exercise
Here’s what the Arthritis Foundation has to say about exercise: “Exercise reduces joint pain and stiffness, builds strong muscle around joints, and increases flexibility and endurance.” They recommend everything from walking to yoga to strength training to playing golf, as long as it gets you up and moving.

But Do It Safely
Those of you who can do a more intense workout should know that you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your joints to be fit. You don’t have to lift the heaviest weight at the gym or do hundreds of repetitions to maintain nicely toned muscles. A reasonably challenging regimen is all it takes to look and feel great. If you run or jog, don’t do it every day. It will kill your knees. And don’t spend the day on a step machine either, for the same reason. Arecumbent stationary bicycle (in a reclining position) takes the stress off your knees and hips. The best exercise regimen for your joints and body is one that includes the three basic components: stretching, resistance training, and aerobics. If you follow my suggested program, you will not be overworking any particular joint or muscle group. And please don’t forget to stretch. Stretching helps maintain joint flexibility, which we lose with age. The loss of flexibility can seriously interfere with simple daily activities, such as trying to lift your arms over your head to put on a blouse or reaching for a dish in the cupboard. It can make you feel old before your time.

MAGGIE’S MEMO:
In 1992 the first Curves for Women center opened in Harlington, Texas. By 1996 Curves had grown to 44 locations; in 1997, 247; and by the end of 2003, Curves will have 5,000 clubs. In January of 2003. Entrepreneur Magazine ranked Curves as the 2nd best franchise overall, the fastest growing franchise and the #1 fitness franchise. Last summer Marlene Catlin, President of Curves, Delmar, opened that location. Marlene grew up in the Salisbury and Mardela area. She
graduated from Mardela High School and Delaware Tech. Her daughter, Laura and family live in the area and assist her with Curves. The Delmar location offers the Curves 30 minute total workout which which is safe for any age or condition. Weight loss classes are on-going throughout the year and flexibility classes are taught by certified trainers.

MAGGIE SAYS:
“CURVES has been one of the best decisions that I’ve made in my life! I’ve been overweight for as long as I can remember and have tried unsuccessfully to lose weight. Since joining CURVES, not only has my appearance changed drastically, but my high blood pressure became normal and my asthma has diminished. I found myself with an abundance of energy that I never
had before. Everything about me has improved from health issues to self-esteem and even to my overall family life. I am proud of my accomplishments and very grateful for the CURVES program for the support and motivation given to me by the CURVES staf.f CURVES has been ‘life changing,’ thank you for helping me find the person that I have always wanted to be for my family and myself!”

From the Editor:
“As a non-exerciser and nondieter, I have been going to CURVES three times a week for a month. I have gained massive weight in the last three years. I have always been short of breath and that has improved. My stamina has also improved where I had none before. I have noticed that my clothes are fitting better. It helps to go with a friend (thanks Marie) but the other women are relaxed and of all shapes and sizes and it would be easy to get a “buddy.” The atmosphere is relaxed and there is no pressure. Just do 30 seconds at each station and you’re done! Call Marlene at 410-896-4696 and get started today.