Ever been asked, "What do you think about those ab machines you can buy on TV?"  It’s tough for me to answer this question nicely.  As a kinesiologist it is a discouraging question to hear because it shows just how much marketing and misinformation affect people. 

Consumer Report did a great job of answering comsumers’ questions about TV exercise devices in their January 2004 issue.  The agency reviewed 12 TV abdominal machines which ranged in price from $80 US to $2000 US.   Everything from “bun & thigh” and abdominal devices, to aerobic devices and strength trainers were reviewed.  Consumer Report investigated the truth in each product’s claims, outlined the effectiveness of the machines and offered suggestions for other free alternatives that could be used instead.

Consumer Report summed up its findings with the statement that “few, if any, infomercial exercise machines live up to all their hype.”  The ones that came close to meeting the expectations of consumers were the more expensive options; the inexpensive options were all ineffective.  Of the abdominal strengthening and “bun & thigh” devices reviewed, the report did not recommend a single one.  In reality, all the claims made for cardiovascular and strength conditioning could be effectively accomplished with an exercise ball or weights.  Consumer Report did, however, recommend the TreadClimber and Vision Fitness treadmill for cardiovascular conditioning, and CrossBow and The Body Solid home gym for strength conditioning.

Interestingly, Consumer Report followed up with three people who endorsed various exercise products on TV to see if they still use the product they endorsed.  All confirmed that they don't.

I would recommend having a copy of the January 2004 Consumer Report to lend to your clients if they ask about exercise devices they see on TV, and make the following recommendations on choosing commercial exercise products:

 What to Look for in a TV Exercise Device

• Ignore the hype - Infomercial exercise machines generally don’t live up to their hype: many of the claims are overblown, those endorsing the product may not actually use the product, and some machines are simply not effective.

• Consider the workout or activity you prefer - A machine will not motivate you to exercise.  You have to enjoy an activity to do it regularly and to ultimately get the results you want.. 

• Add up the total cost - Add up the costs of the machine, taxes, shipping, interest, plus any other hidden or additional costs.

• Ask about guarantees and return policies - Most machines will have a 30 day or 60 day money back guarantee if the machine does not work for you or meet your standards.

• Look for disclaimers - Lots of machines make many claims, and it is important to read the disclaimers.  Many claims are made based on other, simultaneous lifestyle changes in diet, or additional strength training or cardiovascular exercise.

• Don't “cheap out” – In general, quality and effectiveness decrease with the price.

• Take your time - Companies always want you to “act now”, but prices generally hold over time with TV exercise devices.

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