Most people who succeed in losing weight will combine a change in eating habits with an exercise regime. In my case I did the following 3 things and lost 30lbs:

* Low Carbohydrate Diet (see earlier blog)
* Strength Training
* Walking

The strength training initially involved taking out a membership at Curves. This is a women’s only club which provides a 30 minute cardio and strength training workout. You simply turn up, work around a circuit of machines for 30 minutes and you are done. It is recommended that you work out 3 times per week. The advantage of the system is that for a complete beginner like me there is no real learning curve. The equipment is easy to use and you will begin to see results pretty soon if you also diet and walk. Membership is usually not expensive.

The main drawback to the system is the lack of variation. There is only one programme. I remained at Curves for 2 years but after that time I felt I needed a greater challenge which they could not provide so I have now joined a regular gym.I really enjoy going to the gym and I think I would not do so if I had not started out in a club such as Curves.

I feel that Curves provides a good introduction to weight training if you have no previous experience. If you combine it with a 30 minute walk and a change in eating habits then you should see good weight loss.