Last month, Curves Federal Way was named one of the top health clubs among more than 400 of the franchises across the nation.

The Curves North America Franchisee Convention Conference, which included more than 400 clubs from the United States and Canada, was held Nov. 9 in Waco, Texas.

Curves International, Inc. is one of the largest chains of fitness centers for women in the world and is known for its coach-guided 30-minute circuit, which works every major muscle group with strength training, cardio and stretching, according to the franchise website.

Curves Federal Way was recognized as an outstanding club at the conference, an honor earned by only 12 clubs in North America.

This honor acknowledges the club’s ability to reach members, grow as a business, maintain a high level of customer service, and provide a quality experience to members, said Sharon Gentry, owner of the Federal Way location.

“It means being recognized for a lot of hard work. Both by myself, but more importantly, my team. My coaches have done such an exceptional job of helping women,” Gentry said. “They care. They truly care about every woman who comes in.”

This is the second time the honor has been awarded to franchisees across the nation and the first national award earned by the Federal Way club, located at 2316 Southwest 336th Street.

Gentry said she is passionate about spreading the benefits of strength training to women of all ages and abilities.

“Everybody wants a better quality of life but sometimes we don’t know how to get there,” Gentry said. “We like to help keep muscles strong so bodies are strong and people have the freedom to do what they want to do.”

Curves Federal Way currently helps more than 300 women in the local community create happier and healthier lives, she said.

“The award was a really nice, just being able to put in my hands a confirmation that we’re getting there and doing what we want to be doing.”