Over the years, I have made many attempts to stick to a regular workout routine by joining countless gyms, purchasing exercise machines for my home and participating in group exercise classes. However, no matter how hard I tried to get into the habit of working out, I could never stick to a workout schedule because I wasn’t enjoying the exercise. Well, one day, while I was playing around online, I stumbled upon a wacky piece of exercise equipment that caught my eye. This discovery prompted me to look for other wacky exercise machines, and after a little bit of digging, I came up with some real doozies. Is it possible that these wacky pieces of equipment could change my whole attitude about exercise?
1. Hula Chair
The first unusual piece of equipment I found online was the Hula Chair. After you sit down in the seat and turn it on, the seat spins around to simulate hula dancing. This may not be one of the most strenuous exercise machines on the market, but for someone who doesn’t break a sweat very often, it can really increase the heart rate. I became obsessed with this wacky machine and actually purchase one, after finding a great deal on Craigslist. Since buying it a couple months ago, I continue to use it almost daily and still have so much fun with it.
2. IJoy Board
This machine, by Human Touch, seems to be a bit more scarce than others, but it is still possible to find it online. Basically, you stand on the iJoy Board, like a skateboard, and try to keep your balance as it moves around. Believe me, it is more challenging than it looks! It comes with a remote control, attached to a lanyard, so you can put it around your neck and adjust the speed while you are standing on it. This wacky piece of equipment is a blast to use and great for the legs.
3. IGallop
The iGallop is designed to simulate the feeling of riding a horse. Shortly after I bought my Hula Chair, I became so intrigued by the iGallop that I had to have one. When I sit on it, I am reminded of the feeling I had, as a kid, when I rode those 25-cent kiddie rides outside of K-mart. This wacky machine has four different speeds and the idea is to stay balanced on it while it gallops and trots. I have a great time using it and, believe it or not, this piece of equipment really does help tighten the abs and thighs.
4. RipSurfer X
The RipSurfer X is produced by the company, Surfset Fitness. It is designed to look like a surfboard and simulates the feeling of riding the ocean waves. Unlike some of the other wacky exercise machines out there, the RipSurfer X is not powered by electricity. It is marketed as a total-body surf trainer and it appears to give a pretty intense workout. If you need more of a challenge, the company makes resistance bands that can be attached to it, too.
5. Rodeo Pro Core Trainer
This crazy machine is a lot like the iGallop, except it is designed to simulate the feeling of riding a bull, rather than a horse. The handle strap is located behind you, and it appears to resemble the feeling of riding one of those bucking broncos you might see at a cowboy bar. Because of it’s constant bucking, the Rodeo Pro Core Trainer causes you to lose your center of balance. Your abs and core get a good workout while trying to keep you balanced in the seat. I found some online videos of people riding this machine and it really looks like a lot of fun.
6. Gyroboard
The Gyroboard is advertised as an all-in-one sports board that you can use in all sorts of ways including martial arts, rugby and skateboard training. It does not run on electricity because the balance board is perched atop a giant spring. There are removable handles that help you stay balanced and a break that will lock the spring if you want the board to remain stationary. The possibilities for this wacky piece of equipment are seemingly endless. Its availability is fairly limited because it was patented in New Zealand and has yet to catch on in the States.
7. IJoy Twist
Here is another wild machine that you sit on to stay balanced. The iJoy Twist is a bit different than the others, though. Not only does it move like a horse or bull, but it also twists around in every direction. I have never tried one, but it looks like it is designed to take the iGallop to the next level. I was tempted to buy one before I bought my iGallop, but the iJoy Twist’s price tag is almost double. Unless I find a sale or a good deal on a used one, it will be awhile before I can afford this awesome machine.
I was a bit skeptical before I bought my Hula Chair and iGallop because I was afraid they would end up becoming large clothing racks, similar to the fate of my past exercise machines. I’m pleased to report that no clothing has been thrown on top of them because I continue to use them so often. Have you ever tried a wacky exercise machine?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the iGallop and how does it work?
- The iGallop is a fun exercise machine that mimics horseback riding. You just sit on it, and it moves in a way that targets your core muscles, helping to tone and strengthen them. It's like going for a ride without leaving your home!
- Does the iJoy Ride Human Touch actually give you a workout?
- Oh, absolutely! The iJoy Ride Human Touch is a unique exercise machine that simulates horseback riding, much like the iGallop. It's designed to engage your core and improve your balance while providing a low-impact workout.
- Is the iJoy Twist worth its price?
- If you're looking for a gadget that offers a unique way to work your abs and improve flexibility, the iJoy Twist could be worth the investment. It’s usually on the higher end price-wise, but many find it a fun and effective addition to their fitness routine.
- Can the RodeoCore really help with fitness?
- The RodeoCore is another wacky but effective piece of exercise equipment. It challenges your balance and targets your core muscles by simulating a rodeo ride. It can definitely add some excitement to your workout routine!
- Is the iJoy Board similar to a skateboard for exercises?
- Kind of! The iJoy Board is a balance board that you stand on and shift your weight to control. It helps improve your balance, core strength, and coordination, similar to how you'd use a skateboard, but it's stationary.