Captain Gadget

Slender for 07

As we all finally sleep off the excesses of the Christmas period and settle back into work in the New Year, it is time to join the other great tradition of this time of year and that is 'get fit'. The New Years resolution to get fit is still fairly high in the list of priorities so Captain Gadget has decided to give you a little help. As this is not a diet and nutrition column I will steer clear of Atkins, Cambridge etc but will give you the cheaters guide to get fit gadgets.

Slendertone:
This figure enhancing belt sends electric shocks to your abs and gluts at a rate of hundreds a minute, causing muscles to contract at a fierce rate. A variable speed scale allows you to control the rate of pulses and gradual increase over days does wonders for the psychological effect. Verdict: Shows good progress at the beginning, but the need to bare your tummy makes it uncomfortable during the winter.

Cross Trainers:
These machines involve walking at funny angles while moving your arms briskly. They look great on television and seem to offer the solution to all our body flaws. The burn felt when using a cross trainer certainly should be doing you some good. Verdict: Looks good but will probably only end up as the suit holder in the corner of the bedroom.

Kinetic Eye-toy:
This is the latest incarnation for the Sony Playstation, a tiny camera connected to the PS shows your image on the television while a virtual trainer takes you through a selected exercise programme. This is definitely a good adult reason for owning a Playstation. Verdict: The best fun and a good workout, if you can prise the Playstation out of the hands of your children for long enough to get the benefit.