Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

retro fitness

How to join a gym... 1950s and '60s-style

Thinking of kickstarting an exercise regime? Try not to be put off by these ancient ads.

WEIGHTLIFTING FOR WOMEN and saunas for the boys. The attractions of the gyms of the 1950s and 1960s don’t seem much different from those being marketed to us at this time of year.

But there is still something a little… off… about these gym demos, no?

Maybe it’s the VibroMassage machine from this 1960s push for men’s gyms:

image

Or is it this terribly saucy demo of strength-training from the 1950s (for both sexes)?

imageimage

Videos: British Pathé/Youtube

We don’t feel well.

Are you vowing to join a gym this January?


Poll Results:

I already am a gym member (1259)
Not after those videos I'm not (1176)
No (460)
Yes (61)

Column: The rise of bodybuilding shows strong is the new skinny>
Sweat, phones and keeping your clothes on: 18 rules of gym etiquette>

Your Voice
Readers Comments
43
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.