After operating two Curves, ladies-only fitness centers, in the Pointes for more than a decade, Shawn Burtch consolidated the two into one larger, state-of-the-art location in Pointe Plaza. 

The old locations were both on Mack Avenue with one in the Woods and one in the City of Grosse Pointe. The new location in Pointe Plaza, 19165 Mack Ave., is located between the two former locations.

Curves is a national franchise of popular gyms for women offering a 30-minute, total-body workout using hydraulic machines for resistance. The workout, which involves a circuit of different stations for interval training, is marketed to busy women who want an effective but quick workout. The Pointe Plaza location boasts 3,500 square feet of space and is different than most Curves in that it is “decorated like a spa,” said Burtch. These decorative elements, she noted, include “calm and soothing” earth tones, a Himalayan salt lamp, a large waterfall tableau, and rocks and lighted candles.

The new gym also boasts the best Curves has to offer in terms of fitness, including a state-of-the-art computerized workout called Curves Smart Personal Coaching System.

“Members work within their target range and receive instant feedback right after their workout,” said Burtch. “It keeps members working harder and understanding more about their workout and their own bodies and fitness level.”

In addition—thanks to a partnership between Curves and Zumba Fitness--members can choose from 11 weekly Zumba classes as well as weekly belly dancing and occasional yoga instruction. This fall, Burtch plans to implement Zumba Gold--a program specifically designed for seniors with limited mobility.

Burtch said having a single location has allowed her to offer longer operating hours. The Pointe Plaza location is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m Monday through Friday and from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Personal trainers are present at all times to offer free training advice to members.

She said members appreciate many things about the new location, particularly the abundant free parking, the ease of running errands or taking a walk in the mall before or after a workout, and the proximity to St. John’s Hospital, where they can schedule their workout along with a doctor’s appointment or a visit with a patient. Many members also use the hospital’s cafeteria for lunch, she said.

The standard monthly Curves membership is $39, however deals and specials are common, said Burtch. Through the Silver Sneakers program, certain qualifying seniors can receive free memberships through a variety of programs and organizations. In addition, new members can sign up for the three months of summer for just $99, and young college students who are home from school can join for the entire summer for only $30.