Shape-Up Shoes

In response to allegations that they deceptively advertised the effects of their "toning" shoes to customers, Skechers reportedly agreed to pay $50 million to settle with the Federal Trade Commission, alongside 44 states and the District of Columbia. This is following Reebok settling in 2011 for $25 million for similar false claims for their own version of the toning shoe.

Another fad product bites the dust.

I knew this was coming, because research has shown that these things do not work. The proof? Dr. Porcari and colleagues did a great study comparing exercise, calorie burning, and muscle activity effects of wearing a "toning shoes" compared to a regular athletic shoe. They actually used both the Reebok and Skechers versions.

The participants were asked to walk on a treadmill in each shoe. Their results showed that there were no differences in the participants' heart rate, effort, or how many calories they burned between the toning shoes and regular athletic shoes. In addition, to accomodate the "toning" questions due to the increased muscle use, the researchers found that there were no differences in the muscle activity of the calf, thigh, buttocks, abs or low back.

I wonder how long it will take for us to finally realize that these "quick fixes" are gimmicks to make money off of us?

Probably never, as the consumer has been falling prey to these ploys forever.

Take for instance, these fab inflatable air shorts advertised as an "easy, effective way to trim down and slenderize the waist, abdomen, hips and thighs!". They guaranteed results, were only $6.99 (marked down from $9.99), and held a 30-day risk-free trial. Sound familiar? Like the toning shoes, there were apparently two companies fighting for the popular sales of these shorts!

Some things never change!