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Sweat Equity

You've got to wonder why men would be clamoring to join a fitness center called "Curves for Women." Then again, maybe you don't.

You've got to wonder why men would be clamoring to join a fitness center called "Curves for Women." Then again, maybe you don't.

In any case, women in Wisconsin who are uncomfortable with the prospect of being ogled in their workout clothes as they burn calories and tone their muscles got some good news recently: A bill signed into law by Governor Jim Doyle legalizes single-sex fitness centers.

The bill was inspired by a discrimination lawsuit filed against Curves for Women by a businessman who was told more than a decade ago that it would be illegal for him to open a female-only fitness center. The new law makes an exception to the rule that no one may be denied the use of public accommodations based on sex, race, color, creed, disability, sexual orientation, national origin or ancestry.

Some legislators were worried the measure would open the door to discrimination in other areas. Others felt it was unnecessary, arguing that most men would feel foolish going to a fitness center called Curves for Women. One lawmaker said the bill generated more constituent interest than most others he's dealt with.

Dan Leistikow, the governor's spokesman, says Doyle took time to carefully evaluate the legislation to be sure it applied exclusively to fitness centers and wouldn't lead to, say, men-only country clubs. "The governor believes that if this bill will encourage women to exercise and lead healthy lifestyles in a supportive environment that meets their needs, the bill deserves our support," Leistikow says. "It's narrowly written so there won't be a snowball effect to other kinds of public accommodations."

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