(HealthDayNews) -- Makers of the countless exercise products on the market make a wide range of claims about how their wares can help you lose weight, build muscle and keep fit.
But the U.S. Federal Trade Commission says you need to carefully judge and evaluate exercise equipment marketing claims.
For example, you should be wary if it's claimed that an exercise product:
- Offers easy or effortless results or burns excessive calories.
- Helps you burn more calories or lose weight faster than other types of exercise equipment.
- Helps you reduce fat in specific areas of your body. Toning and losing weight in one area of your body requires regular exercise that works the whole body.
When buying exercise equipment, you need to consider if it will help you reach your goals -- such as improved strength, increased flexibility, or better endurance. Articles in consumer and fitness magazines can help you choose equipment that best suits your needs.
