The Shake
Weight
The claim: The Shake Weight promises dramatic
results in just six minutes a day. First, shake the 2.5-pound plastic
dumbbell. Then perform a traditional strength-training move. The
result? Toned and defined chest, arms, and
shoulders.
The theory: Vibrations from the device make the muscles work
harder during exercise, building strength and
power.
The research: Most studies of vibration training have been
done using whole-body platforms. These may build muscle strength
and power under a trainer’s guidance. But the Shake Weight is
difficult to use properly, according to the American Council on
Exercise. It’s also too light to strengthen muscles, and the directions
call for too few reps.
Try instead: For better
muscle definition, try dynamic workouts that tone your whole body,
like jumping rope or
dancing.
Shape-Ups and Other Shoes
The claim: So-called
toning shoes—like Skechers Shape-Ups and Reebok EasyTone— claim to
strengthen your calves and hamstrings, burn more calories, improve
your posture, and reduce joint stress and pain.
The
theory: The rounded soles create an unstable surface,
challenging your feet and legs.
The research: A
study by researchers at the American Council on Exercise found no
differences in heart rate or calorie burn with toning vs. regular
shoes. You may use different muscles in these shoes than you would in
regular shoes, which could improve balance. But each brand is
different. What works for one person may cause injury to others, such
as people with poor balance or with joint or tendon
problems.
Try instead: To amp up your walking routine,
carry hand weights. To tone your legs and butt, try
squats.
The Perfect Push-Up
The
claim: The Perfect Push-Up promises to strengthen your upper body
in 10 workouts or less.
The theory: These
handgrips rotate with your arm’s natural movement while you do a push-up.
This supposedly strengthens your chest, arms, back, and abs while
reducing joint strain.
The bottom line: Overall,
push-ups are an effective move. But one study, in the Journal
of Strength and Conditioning Research, didn’t show muscles
working harder with the handgrips. The instability may actually
trigger wrist strain and increase the risk for injury.
Try
instead: Start your push-ups on the floor or any stable
surface. Move your hands closer together to target triceps and
shoulders.
