Fitness As Seen On TV: 5 Ways Shaky Science Can Mislead Consumers

Fitness As Seen On TV products are among the most popular exercise devices in America. Viewers become more confident in their decision to purchase these products when scientific studies purport to demonstrate their effectiveness.

Most consumers do not question the science behind claims. But if you look more closely, you may be surprised at the weird science and partial truths that help sell some types of exercise equipment.

A review of scientific testing conducted on abdominal devices revealed basic flaws in the research methods, coupled with advertisements that presented only favorable findings:

1. There were very few participants in studies. Very small sample sizes of only 10 or 12 young, fit individuals limited how well the findings applied to the general public to which the fitness products were marketed. In addition, unequal numbers of men and women were tested together, which further skewed the results when products were designed for women.

2. Some studies did not compare “apples to apples”. Marketers claimed that the fitness devices increased muscle activity, but this occurred only when very different, more demanding exercises were compared with the standard crunch. The products yielded far worse results for many comparisons. In the fine print, advertisements posted the disclaimer that best results were displayed, and that results may vary.

3. Marketers claimed that the products were more effective, but researchers never conducted experiments that would support that claim. They simply read the muscle activity meter (EMG) for a variety of exercises and compared the results to muscle activity for the standard crunch. There was no basis to claim greater product effectiveness because there was no attempt to make equivalent comparisons of muscles involved, speed, range of motion, or other important variables.

4. Powerful statistical tools were used for the analyses, but assumptions for their appropriate use were not met. Inappropriate statistics were likely to distort the findings in favor of the fitness products.

5. Results were published in alternative or nonprofessional journals, press releases, or were not disclosed at all. Without the due process of peer review required for article publication in a professional journal, there is no verification that the studies met the scientific standards established by experts in the field.

Think like a scientist. Do not accept statements about the scientific testing of fitness infomercial products at face value. Be objective and open, but remain skeptical about the research behind product claims, especially if results are quite impressive.

Gather the facts and conduct your own product screening. You may find that some fitness products are not quite so amazing as marketers would have you believe.

When a new, revolutionary fitness As Seen On TV product captures your attention, release your inner researcher and question product claims based on research studies to avoid being misled by weird science.

For more about thinking like a scientist, see Research Basics

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