ThighMaster

ThighMaster is a fitness equipment designed for physical exercise targeting the muscles of the thighs. It consists of a V-shaped, spring-loaded, metal device that is squeezed between the thighs to provide resistance training. The ThighMaster became a cultural phenomenon in the early 1990s, largely due to its infomercials featuring celebrity Suzanne Somers. Somers' endorsement and the product's easy-to-use design helped it become a popular home exercise tool, particularly among those looking to tone their thigh muscles without heavy weight lifting or visits to the gym.

History

The ThighMaster was introduced in the late 1980s as a piece of home exercise equipment. Its popularity soared in the early 1990s, making it a staple in many households. The product was marketed as an effective way to achieve firmer, more toned thighs with just a few minutes of use each day. Its success was part of a larger trend of home fitness products that promised gym-quality results without the need for expensive equipment or memberships.

Design and Use

The design of the ThighMaster is simple yet effective. It is made of two metal rods, covered with foam padding, connected by a spring mechanism at the center. Users place the ThighMaster between their thighs and squeeze the legs together, creating resistance that works the inner thigh muscles. The device can also be used to target other muscle groups, such as the arms and chest, by positioning it accordingly and applying pressure.

Cultural Impact

The ThighMaster not only became a symbol of home fitness but also entered popular culture as a recognizable reference to the era's fitness and infomercial craze. Its success is attributed to the effective marketing campaign led by Suzanne Somers, who was already well-known from her role on the television show Three's Company. The product's infomercials, featuring Somers demonstrating its use, became iconic and helped cement the ThighMaster's place in fitness history.

Legacy

Despite the emergence of new fitness trends and equipment, the ThighMaster remains a memorable product from the early '90s fitness boom. It exemplifies the era's approach to home fitness, emphasizing convenience and the appeal of celebrity endorsements. Today, the ThighMaster is still available for purchase, appealing to both nostalgic consumers and those looking for simple, effective exercise tools.

See Also

• Physical fitness
• Resistance training
• Home gym
• Suzanne Somers

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