Am thinking of joining a Curves (probably Herndon). If you are a member, or were a member, is (was) it a good experience? I only need a six-month membership and after reading about breaking memberships with other places am wondering if I should join a fitness center at all.

thanks,

Wasn't a member, but I've visited the place. Most of them are full of old fat women who really just want to socialize. The routines they put you through are good for a short time, but you have to find a way to up the workout periodically or its just a way to maintain, not lose weight or tone up additionally. Their format doesn't look especially helpful for long term. Nice way to get into working out for women though.

As for breaking memberships, ask about it when you talk to the gym. Find out what their policy is and get it in writing. Then make up your mind. Plenty of people have bought memberships at places without learning how to get out of them because when you're signing up you think you're going to make this a part of your lifestyle forever. That isn't always the case in reality though.