The ThighMaster was created by a Swedish chiropractor named Anne-Marie Bennstrom, and was made famous by infomercials that featured actress Suzanne Somers. Although the ThighMaster may seem like it only has one note when it comes to exercise, it's a versatile piece of fitness equipment that you can use to tone your legs, chest and arms. While the ThighMaster has fallen out of popularity, dust yours off to see what kind of muscle toning you can get from it with new exercises.
Legs
Step 1
Sit in a high-backed chair that has a firm cushion. A regular kitchen chair works best. Sit with your back straight and your legs shoulder width apart.
Step 2
Place the ThighMaster between your thighs, with the middle joint pointing towards the floor. The "wings" of the ThighMaster should nestle comfortably between your thighs.
Step 3
Place your hands on the top of the ThighMaster on either side to hold it securely, and squeeze in as far as you can. Hold for a count of three, and then slowly ease back to your starting position. Do three sets of ten to 15 each day.
Chest
Step 1
Point the center of the ThighMaster toward your chin, with the cap facing upward. Place your hands on the cap, with your bend arms resting on the wings of the ThighMaster.
Step 2
Use the muscles in your chest and arm to press down on the ThighMaster to compress the device in toward the center. Hold for for a count of three before slowly easing back to the starting position.
Step 3
Repeat the process for three sets of 15 throughout the day for a strengthened chest.
Arms
Step 1
Sit in a high-backed, hard chair, with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle, shoulder-width apart. If you're more comfortable standing up, you can also complete this exercise from a standing position, which will give you more intensity within your core.
Step 2
Place one of the wings of the ThighMaster flat on your lap or so it rests against your leg. The cap should sit near your hip. Rest your arm on the other wing.
Step 3
With your palm, press down on the ThighMaster so that your arm is engaged as you push down. Go as far as you can, hold for a count of three, and then release, slowly coming back to a starting position.
Step 4
Complete three sets of 15.
References
- ThighMaster Exercises
- Pros Choices: Best Exercise Products for Under $20
- As seen on TV: 50 amazing products and the commercials that made them famous: Lou Harry, Sam Stall, 2002
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