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:

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

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More

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 (459)

Yes (61)

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Poll Results:

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

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