Each month, we nominate the achievements of one of our members who is chosen to be that month's Calendar Girl. Their success is celebrated in the club where their citation is proudly displayed at reception for all to see. Being chosen as a Calendar Girl carries great kudos within the club and shows what great result can be achieved by joining Curves.

Miss July 2010

Kay Knight and her husband were adjusting to a significant life change when they both retired in their early sixties.  Tragically, Kay’s husband died suddenly and leaving Kay facing an even greater life change that was daunting and without direction.  Within a month Kay was diagnosed with cancer and she underwent major surgery.  Happily, the outcome was extremely positive and Kay is clear of the cancer. 

However, Kay’s recuperation was long and she spent the winter sitting around not able to do much, causing her fitness to seriously deteriorate and her weight to increase to a level Kay was not comfortable with.  She also found that her diabetes had worsened.  Unsurprisingly Kay’s confidence and self-esteem became very low. 

Kay was hugely alarmed when she found she was struggling to walk short distances,  It was the catalyst that made her realise she had to do something about her health and fitness.  Kay spoke to her daughter Alana about wanting and needing to get fit and to ask for guidance on how best to do so.  Alana is a member of Curves so she counselled her mum to join as well.  Kay says she has never looked back. 

Kay’s first impressions when walking through the door was, “Oh Crikey!  All those machines!”  Oh dear this is all for gym bunnies!”  However, during the her Fitness Assessment, Kay found that the workout was all going to be tailored around her and, therefore, the reality was “actually I can do this”, she knew it would address her personal challenges and all in as gentle a way as she wanted it to”.  So Kay thought “I’ll have a go” and signed up.

Kay has been coming at least three times a week and often as many as five.  What brings Kay back is her own perseverance and self-discipline.  When asked if the regularity of the workouts helped Kay’s perseverance and self-discipline she said , “actually I think I’m just addicted.”

Kay had been to see her GP on the day before she joined Curves.  He seemed to know a bit about Curves, but having seen the results three months down the line he is now completely supportive of Curves and what can be achieved.  He is absolutely delighted with Kay’s results and shook her hand in congratulation.  He asked Kay if she was planning to stay with it and she said ‘yes!’.

Kay’s improved fitness levels means that she no longer struggles with short walks and she does her shopping with a spring in her step.   Her diabetes has improved and her blood sugars down.  In just three and a half months, Kay has lost 18 pounds, 19.75 inches and 3.1% in body fat........an outstanding achievement!  She now feels very positive, is broadening her outlook on life in general and looking for other things to do.  For example, she is looking to join a friendship group and would like to start swimming.  

Kay says one of the great things about Curves is that there is no ageism, therefore bringing opportunity to a whole new population of ladies.  As Kay says, “you are never too old”!  Also, Kay says the Curves team are all very helpful and very welcoming and she gets her encouragement from all of them.  They are so thrilled when Kay does well in her weigh and measure, which brings an extra sparkle to Kay when she has done well.

Kay love Curves and we love Kay.  Congratulations on being our Calendar Girl for July!!