Thurmont Gets Curves Franchise

(Tuesday, October 20, 2009) - Jaime Keller's 15 years teaching fitness has culminated in owning a Curves franchise.

"My personal goal is to help people realize that 30 minutes of exercise three times a week will help them with more energy, better eating habits and a healthier lifestyle," Keller said. "Weight loss is just a side effect of achieving this goal.

"I love the Curves workout because it is fun, fast and safe," Keller said. "Like water aerobics, the hydraulics offer even resistance throughout the workout based on the participants own ability."

The facility will soon offer the Curves Smart system that includes a personal coaching computer on each machine. The computer records the efforts and abilities of participants on cards and motivates them to reach their full potential throughout the workout, Keller said.

Mary Sparkman travels from Lewistown to Curves.

"I've been coming since she opened. I just love it and my doctor is pleased," Sparkman said.

Curves also serves as a meeting place for Sparkman.

"It's my social time as well. I've made a lot of friends here," she said.

The franchise gets a lot of help from the family, Keller said.

"My kids -- Ashley, Logan and Brady, and my husband, David, help a lot with the business along with all my great employees, Suzan, Carol and Sandy," Keller said.

The Curves membership includes a training coach, unlimited use of the equipment and a weight management program that can work for anyone, Keller said.

A grand opening special, available until Saturday, allows clients to join Curves with no money down with proof of mammogram, or a minimum $25 donation to breast cancer research.