Experts issue major safety warnings on Kmart's latest '90s-inspired exercise gear
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As we all know, the start of a new year often brings a surge of motivation to improve our fitness and health.
Retailers are well aware of this annual trend, and Kmart has joined the fray by introducing a piece of exercise equipment that's a throwback to the '90s fitness craze.
But before you rush out to relive the glory days of home workout gear, experts are sounding the alarm on potential safety concerns.
Kmart's latest offering, the 10-in-1 Core Trainer ($39), has been plucked from the era of neon spandex and aerobic VHS tapes.
The product promises a versatile workout experience, targeting the core and building strength with 'three levels of resistance' and the ability to 'work all the major muscle groups' for 'body shaping.'
However, Jono Castano, a renowned personal trainer and owner of ACERO gym in Sydney, has expressed his reservations about the safety and effectiveness of this nostalgic piece of equipment.
'While I appreciate the mechanics behind this equipment, I personally don’t think it’s the most effective or safest way to exercise,' he said.
Castano points out that gadgets like the 10-in-1 Core Trainer often limit your range of motion or force you into unnatural positions, resulting in subpar outcomes or, worse, injuries.
With his extensive experience in the fitness industry, he has seen the repercussions of relying on such devices.
Instead, Castano advocates for the tried-and-true approach of traditional exercises.
He champions the benefits of bodyweight exercises that can be performed at home, such as squats, push-ups, crunches, and planks.
These exercises are straightforward and effective and require minimal equipment, reinforcing that sometimes the most straightforward methods are the best.
Castano recommends planks, dead bugs, and crunches as top choices for those specifically looking to strengthen their core.
These exercises target the core muscles effectively and promote better overall body alignment and safety.
The conversation around Kmart's core trainer has sparked a mix of nostalgia and scepticism on social media.
Some users have jokingly compared the product to the infomercial staples of the past, ‘Two questions - Does it roll under the bed for easy storage, and do I get free steak knives with it?’
‘Oh my god, my mom had one of these in the 90s,’ another commented.
While some have humorously suggested a return to fluorescent workout attire and classic exercise anthems.
Yet, amidst the humour, there are genuine concerns. Comments range from labelling the product as 'selling false hope and future landfill' to outright calling it 'useless.'
The fear of it contributing to injury and ending up as waste is palpable, with many predicting a short-lived trend that will result in more items discarded than used.
On the flip side, some Kmart shoppers are intrigued by the core trainer, with a few considering it a useful tool for learning exercises like push-ups.
The product's popularity is evident, as it's already sold out online, causing frustration among potential buyers.
Given these mixed reactions and expert warnings, our community must approach such fitness fads cautiously, especially those over 60 who may be more susceptible to injury.
It's always wise to consult with a healthcare professional or a certified fitness trainer before starting any new exercise regimen, particularly when it involves equipment that may pose a risk.
What are your thoughts on Kmart's '90s-inspired core trainer? Have you had experiences with similar exercise equipment from decades past? Share your stories and insights in the comments below.
Retailers are well aware of this annual trend, and Kmart has joined the fray by introducing a piece of exercise equipment that's a throwback to the '90s fitness craze.
But before you rush out to relive the glory days of home workout gear, experts are sounding the alarm on potential safety concerns.
Kmart's latest offering, the 10-in-1 Core Trainer ($39), has been plucked from the era of neon spandex and aerobic VHS tapes.
The product promises a versatile workout experience, targeting the core and building strength with 'three levels of resistance' and the ability to 'work all the major muscle groups' for 'body shaping.'
However, Jono Castano, a renowned personal trainer and owner of ACERO gym in Sydney, has expressed his reservations about the safety and effectiveness of this nostalgic piece of equipment.
Kmart has released a $39 10-in-1 Core Trainer to help kickstart New Year's fitness resolutions. Credit: @kmartaus / Instagram
'While I appreciate the mechanics behind this equipment, I personally don’t think it’s the most effective or safest way to exercise,' he said.
Castano points out that gadgets like the 10-in-1 Core Trainer often limit your range of motion or force you into unnatural positions, resulting in subpar outcomes or, worse, injuries.
With his extensive experience in the fitness industry, he has seen the repercussions of relying on such devices.
Instead, Castano advocates for the tried-and-true approach of traditional exercises.
He champions the benefits of bodyweight exercises that can be performed at home, such as squats, push-ups, crunches, and planks.
These exercises are straightforward and effective and require minimal equipment, reinforcing that sometimes the most straightforward methods are the best.
Castano recommends planks, dead bugs, and crunches as top choices for those specifically looking to strengthen their core.
These exercises target the core muscles effectively and promote better overall body alignment and safety.
The conversation around Kmart's core trainer has sparked a mix of nostalgia and scepticism on social media.
Some users have jokingly compared the product to the infomercial staples of the past, ‘Two questions - Does it roll under the bed for easy storage, and do I get free steak knives with it?’
‘Oh my god, my mom had one of these in the 90s,’ another commented.
While some have humorously suggested a return to fluorescent workout attire and classic exercise anthems.
Yet, amidst the humour, there are genuine concerns. Comments range from labelling the product as 'selling false hope and future landfill' to outright calling it 'useless.'
The fear of it contributing to injury and ending up as waste is palpable, with many predicting a short-lived trend that will result in more items discarded than used.
On the flip side, some Kmart shoppers are intrigued by the core trainer, with a few considering it a useful tool for learning exercises like push-ups.
The product's popularity is evident, as it's already sold out online, causing frustration among potential buyers.
Given these mixed reactions and expert warnings, our community must approach such fitness fads cautiously, especially those over 60 who may be more susceptible to injury.
It's always wise to consult with a healthcare professional or a certified fitness trainer before starting any new exercise regimen, particularly when it involves equipment that may pose a risk.
