Life is full of moments that change our lives. These moments are life defining. They change us; they give us the power to believe in something that we might not have believed in before. A life defining moment for me was when I decided to change my lifestyle and embrace a healthy way of living through proper nutrition and exercise. It was Christmas of 2005 when I realized that I was at an unhealthy weight. My weight was 252 pounds and I was not happy. Besides being obese I knew that if I didn't change my habits I would be plagued with diseases that so many are faced with: Cancer, Heart Disease, Diabetes, Osteoperosis, and Arthritis. I had no energy and my circulation in my fingers and toes caused them to be numb and cold all the time. Actually, I hated myself. The lowest I had ever felt in my life. I've read if you don't like something change it and if you can't change it change the way you think about it. Don't complain. Attitude is everything. Little did I know that those would be so important in the journey that I would soon embrace. I had been a member of Curves since March of 2004 but rarely attended because I made excuses for myself. I was busy being a mom, I had to take care of the house, cleaning, laundry and cooking. After all who had time for exercise? Even though it is designed for 30 minutes?.Fun, fast and effective. Who has time? Well, If you can't find time for bodily exercise you will find time for a doctor. Was this really the path that I wanted to venture down? Or should I just utilize my gym membership and see what that could do for my life. I chose Curves! I committed to their nutritional and exercise program and I committed to myself and my future. What a great decision! I am a firm believer that it is all about the journey and not the destination that we eventually will come to. My approach seemed simple, one day at a time. You cannot lose 100 pounds before you lose that first one. No progress is insignificant. Actually, all forward motion becomes a solid foundation in the journey to a healthier, happier YOU. In eleven short months I had lost 95 pounds and 80 inches. I had gone from a size 20 down to a size 4/6, but it isn't about the size, it is about the HEALTH. I am stronger mentally, physically, and spiritually because I took care of myself. I made time for ME. I gained self worth, self esteem and truly feel that there is not a mountain that I could not climb. I AM a better wife, mother, sister, friend, daughter, employee and woman because I took the time to commit to myself. The best gift I could have given myself. Truly priceless! Life is precious not to be taken for granted. Finding time for yourself and embracing a "CAN DO" attitude will empower and enrich your life. I know that Curves 30 minute program and weight management program work. It CAN be a tool for your success all you truly have to do is BELIEVE. Live it, Love it Embrace it. The Power to Amaze ~ Curves (Rachael teaches our once a month diet classes.)

Cecile Biais is a young woman who lives in Berkshire, a county in southern England. Cecilia approached her thirties, an age considered by many women as the "ideal age", but she bought her clothes in shops reserved for large sizes. She wanted to lose weight at any price, but did not know how to get started. "The more I swelled, the more I was depressed ... I totally lost my confidence, both at work with my friends. " In just one year, Cecile literally melted. With a size 50-52, she now has a recognizable figure with a waist of 38. She lost over 30 kilos and 167 cm distributed throughout the body! She says she spent a challenging year, but "without Curves, I could not have done!" In addition to her phenomenal weight loss and greatly improved fitness, Cecile also sees life in a much more positive way. Today she has more confidence in herself and feels more "balanced". Her health has also greatly improved, her attitude is positive and style of living has improved, elements that have brought her closer to her family. According to Cecile, this Curves adventure has changed her life. "It's the best decision I ever made."

When Diane Jordan made the decision to join Curves in 2006, her morale was "at the bottom." His size 60 did not only affect her pride; she seriously endangered her life. She had all the risks of developing hypertensive disorders, diabetes or suffering a stroke, among other serious health problems. At Curves, Diane learned that some small changes could make all the difference. Encouraged by the staff of Curves and the 30 minute workout three times a week, she began to drink water every day and eat smaller healthier food portions. She also began eating more fruits and vegetables. In just two years, Diane's efforts have paid off. She has now lost nearly 32 kilograms and wears size 14 dresses! She is proud of her efforts and said, thinking of her debut at Curves, "Since that time, I built a new life and I now have more confidence in myself and my body." Thinking about her new figure and the changes it has brought to her every day life, Diane recalls: "The last time I was this thin, I was a teenager!". In addition to this, Diane told us that before joining Curves and begin this adventure, she had never owned a pair of jeans or a single dress. After losing nearly 32 kg, jeans and dresses have now become two essential elements of her new wardrobe.