The Bottom Line: If you're looking to tone up your thighs or love handles, or you're just looking for something to get you moving, the Lateral Thigh Trainer may work for you.
vickybee's Full Review: Tristar Lateral Thigh Trainer
It turns out that this machine isn't as bad as I'd thought it would be. I originally bought the Lateral Thigh Trainer in hopes that I would exercise more....and well, I am!
If you're looking for an intense workout, this isn't it. However, it will get your heart rate up and make you sweat just a bit. I am currently a full-time student and have no time (let alone the money on my student budget) to get to the gym. The Lateral Thigh Trainer at the very least makes doing something active much easier. I have used the LTT for about 2 months now for 15-20 minutes almost every day. You can definatley feel the burn if you work it. It's a little awkward at first, but you'll get used to it, especially if you've trained on an eliptical before. When I first started using it, my lower back and knees were especially sore. In fact, it can be pretty harsh on the knees if you're not careful. It's not as "low-impact" as one would think. However, my back and knee/leg muscles have also strengthened tremendously.
In fact I do see results! My thigh and butt muscles have firmed up, and my "love handle" area has significantly decreased. But in terms of real weight loss, I would definately have to step it up a notch. If you don't mind using a silly machine like this, you could probably lose some weight using the LTT.
The LTT came with stretch cords that you could hook up and use while stepping. I found them to be a bit awkward....instead I just carry 5lb weights while I'm on the machine. It gives the whole workout a bit more "umph". Never got around to looking at the workout video - who still has a VCR? I don't use that silly calculator either.
The major downside is the SQUEAK. I can see how people could so easily banish this machine into the depths of their basements. This machine can be perfectly silent, but it takes a bit of extra maintanence. If you can't figure out where that mysterious squeak is coming from, try taking off the pedals and greasing or using WD-40 on the joint underneath the pedal. That's where my secret squeak was! But since I found it, spraying WD-40 on it every once in a while isn't really that difficult.
Overall, I would recommend this machine to someone who's looking for an easy way to get their heart rate up and be more active. If you don't mind putting a little maintenence into the machine then the cheap price will be worth the benefits. I think it would be great for someone who wants to start incorporating exercise and movement into their lives but don't really have the time or money to spent on more fancy equipment or a gym membership. I have incorporated this little thing into my daily routine with ease, and it serves its purpose for me. It keeps me at a basic level of fitness, and that's exactly what I was looking for. I'm glad I spent the $80!
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