Vintage Exercise Machines That Look Like Torture Devices

Weighted Hula Skirt

Inspired by the popularity of hula hoops, this wearable “hula skirt” had metal weights sewn into each strand. The idea was that dancing with it would tone your hips and thighs while providing aerobic exercise. It was marketed heavily to housewives in the 1950s who wanted fun and fitness in one package.

But the weighted tassels often smacked users during spins, leaving bruises and broken lamps. The skirt’s metal strands tangled easily, turning your living room into a hazard zone. Ultimately, it was more dangerous than disco, and was pulled from shelves after too many “twirling accidents.”

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