iGallop, Because iLazy
Hong Kongers are suckers for exercise equipment that reduces the need for real exertion.
Enter two competing toys: National Panasonic's Joba and OSIM's iGallop. Both devices are designed for users who want to get fit while they sit. OSIM claims its machine "mimics the distinct trot of a horse in its front, back and lateral movements".
The Joba unit is the better-built of the two, with a seat that looks like a saddle, as opposed to OSIM's odd oval cushion.
Panasonic has been running heavy-rotation TV ads, while OSIM was at first content to stick with advertising in Taiwan. Both companies focus on svelte, sexy models (with a midriff jiggle-factor of zero) having SO. MUCH. FUN! on their horsey gadgets. In reality, put someone with 35% body fat on one of those and sales would plummet.
The idea is just another in a long line of "easy fitness" gimmicks. A local fitness instructor said:
Obviously it is better than doing nothing, but why pay $5,000 for something that does the same thing as a fitball that costs $100?
Because using a fitball requires actual effort.
Why do core abdominal training on a ball when you can park your ass and watch TV?
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