For reasons unknown, the human population loves a good fad, and from snail slime facials to eating like cavemen, we’ve seen a few crazy ones in our time.
But some of the funniest ones by far are the fitness fads.
It really is amazing to see what some people will do to themselves in their journey to get fit with minimal effort. Sure, some might get results, but for the rest of us, it’s just as entertaining to watch them try.
Here are some of the funniest fitness fads that have come our way in the last few years.
1. Bodyblade
The Bodyblade has actually been on the market since the early 90s, but it seems to be still going pretty strong today, showing just how dedicated we are to wistful thinking. The product is a lightweight blade that you shake in order to tone your muscles through vibration and muscle resistance. Apparently, the entire body can be toned, although we admit users look a bit like humanoid insects trying to take to the air. The creator Bruce Hymanson is a physical therapist who does have a decent idea of why it works, if you’re willing to look pretty damn foolish.
2. Slendertone
You might remember the very early vibrating belt weight-loss machines that promised great muscles and no fat, thanks to super real ‘science’ that said that fat would just wobble straight off your body. Well, as it turns out, they’re still a thing, only now, they’re much smaller. The Slendertone advertises itself as a “toning belt” that uses muscle-stimulating technology to create abdominal contractions that mimic natural muscle movements. It’s like the vibrating belt all over again!
3. Ab Roller Evolution
One of these old-style floor contraptions had to make the list of fads because there were just so many out there during its hey-day. The Ab Roller Evolution was one of the stand-outs in the informercial circle, thanks to the super masculine advertisement that claimed the product would give you “explosive arms” and a “massive chest”. Basically, it’s just something that supports your neck while you do crunches, but based on the ad, it’s basically magic. Oh, and you can balance on it to do push ups and dips too. Look out.
4. Shake Weight
Who doesn’t remember the super shake-up that the Shake Weight brought when it hit late night infomercials, and then eventually the big time, just a few years ago. The oddly suggestive motion of the hand-held weight was enough to send most viewers into fits of giggles, wondering if it really was ‘safe for work’. Things got even more hilarious when the Shake Weight for men was released, with lots of heavy breathing, oiled up muscles and (if you can believe it) grunting.