About a year and a half ago, when we bought Curves of Rockridge, we were immediately introduced to all the staff members. Right after our introduction to Maria, she announced she was not only leaving her job at Curves but, she was also leaving the country! YIKES! I guess we didn’t make as good a first impression as we had hoped we would. Fortunately for us, 5-months later Maria returned from her sabbatical to Israel and walked through our doors looking for her old job. Since that time Maria has been an inspiration to all of us. She is a 22 year old college student who is studying to be a Radiologist. Equally as important, Maria is a valued member our Curves team. Since her return she has proven to be a wonderful circuit coach and has taken on the task of teaching our 6 Week Solution classes. Maria doesn’t have a secret she simply practices what she preaches; she works out regularly and is very aware of her dietary needs. Since November 2007 she has lost an amazing 49 lbs, 33.5 inches and has gone from a size 22 to size 14! Maria is never off duty; when she comes in for her own personal workout she continues to encourage and inspire our members. She currently has organized a “boot camp” to help our members be better prepared to participate in the Bay to Breakers. This is just one of many extra activities she has done to help encourage our members. Often we get members who stop by to tell us they enjoy these activities so much they are continuing them and getting their families involved. Maria, you are highly respected for your untiring commitment to your own health and fitness. In addition, we greatly appreciate your continued commitment to the health and fitness of all of us. Your dedicated and unselfish efforts set an example for all of us to follow.

Tracey Toltl didn’t like the woman who stared back at her from the mirror each day, so much so that she eventually stopped looking. Her mother struggled with diabetes, high blood pressure, and more, and Tracey knew she was headed in the same direction unless she took control of her health. That, and Curves’ TV commercial, motivated her to join. Before long, she was happy to see herself not only reflected in the mirror but also in the eyes of others.

Like everyone in her family, paralegal Andrea Evans has long battled weight. But as an avid soccer player and skier, she fought back gamely until recently, when sports injuries took a devastating toll on her knees, leading to severe arthritis. Sidelined, Andrea became increasingly overweight and depressed. Her boss kindly insisted that Andrea check out Curves, where she was a member. How do you say no to your boss? Apparently, you don’t, if you know what’s good for you. For Andrea, it doesn’t get much better than Curves.