Hi, Karia.
I joined my local Curves the day she opened for business - one year ago this coming Tuesday.
The girls there have become a big family - and we're all getting together for a big anniversary celebration - work the circuit, then go eat cake!!!
Anyway... As far as "my" gym goes, you can commit to a 1-year contract for a lesser monthly fee, or pay $10 more and "pay as you go," to give you a chance to try it out.
I was doing WW for 6 months before joining Curves. I found that my $$ was better spent on the gym than on the weekly meetings - but that's just me. I've stuck with WW all this time, and am very satisfied with the results. And, with Curves, I've been able to really "tone up" in areas that haven't been that way in a LONG time - if ever!!
Your local center will probably allow you to try it out with a free workout, before you commit. Right now - new members are getting the first month's memberships free, but not sure how long that's lasting.
Hope this helps!