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AFTER the festivities and the feasting, one suddenly realises the need to exercise and shed some weight. That’s when one starts eyeing telemarketing networks that show all those fabulous models with sculpted bodies exercising on fancy machines. On the television screen, it seems so easy and effortless to shed those extra kilos that one is easily tempted to buy these gadgets. The ones that promise to help you get rid of fat at specific spots without any exercising or efforts on your part are particularly tempting. Who would not want a flat abdomen, if one can have it by just strapping a belt that would do the work without your moving a muscle? But before getting all excited at the prospect and spending your hard earned money on these, I would suggest caution. First of all, you need to know whether the gadget works at all. Second, whether it is built to exacting standards and third, whether it is safe. There are two aspects to safety — while one pertains to the construction of the gadget and the materials used, the other pertains to the safety of its use. So it would be advisable to first get as much written information as possible from the manufacturer or the seller about the product. Also talk to doctors and physiotherapists about the gadget, and ask them about the possible adverse effects. These precautions are particularly important because there is no mandatory certification on the efficacy and safety of these gadgets. In fact, the health ministry should set up a mechanism wherein such products are allowed to be advertised only after the manufacturer convincingly demonstrates to a panel of experts, the effectiveness and the safety of such equipment. In the United States, for example, certain fitness equipment such as the electrical muscle stimulators are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any manufacturer wanting to sell them directly to the consumer has to show the FDA how it can be used safely and effectively without the supervision of a healthcare professional. Similarly, on the basis of feedback received from the consumers, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), too, orders recall of exercise equipment on grounds of safety hazards. Unfortunately in India, we have no such monitoring of exercise equipment or gadgets. So tread carefully and exercise caution while buying fitness equipment. Check out the reputation of the manufacturer, the warranties and the guarantee as well as the after-sales support that he is offering and buy only if you are thoroughly convinced of its safety and efficacy. So think carefully before buying and buy only if you are convinced of its usefulness and your own commitment to exercise. Tele-shopping networks selling these gadgets also offer free trials and promises like “return them for a full refund if you are not satisfied with the results”. Well, do not let that tempt you. In fact, whenever you come across such “free trial” offers, read the terms and conditions very carefully. Do you really get a full refund? Is there a time bar on return of the goods? Check these things first. Also consider the cost of mailing the gadget back safely in case you want to return it for a refund. Of course, if the product is not up to the mark, or is unsafe or does not fit the description or the claims made by the manufacturer or the seller, then you can seek redress through the consumer courts constituted under the Consumer Protection Act. You can not only get a full refund for any defective product, but also compensation for any damage or injury caused as a result of using such gadgets. Similarly, if the claims made about the product turn out to be false or misleading, it constitutes an unfair trade practice. In conclusion, remember, there is no gain without pain — so don’t believe those who tell you that you can lose weight without sweat. But before buying a gadget think of the cheapest option available — walking.
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