RetroFit: The electric bicycle, in heels - The Orange County Register

For the debut of RetroFit, our series that explores the wonderfully eccentric fitness gear and gizmos of generations past, we couldn't have picked a better item than this. Mostly because of the priceless photo found hiding deep in The Associated Press archives.

Who's that handsome woman, enjoying her workout in a snug dress and come-hither high heels? Take it away, AP photographer and caption-writer Carl Nesensohn!

The Exercycle, in 1951.

AP

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"Patricia Buckin, one of the 30 waitresses who are taking a charm course to prepare them for their jobs in a new restaurant, which is opening in New York's Times Square area, works out on an electric bicycle to strengthen her legs, Feb. 8, 1951. The women are learning how to keep themselves fit and attractive and also how to serve diners graciously and hospitably."

The contraption that Buckin is using to keep herself fit and attractive is the Exercycle, an ancestor to the modern stationary bike. The machine was first produced by Exercycle of New York City, and it still is: The company's 21st-century model is called the Theracycle, which uses a motor to gently help the user push the pedals. It can be used with or without handlebars that move back and forth, making it ideal for people with limited mobility.

That distinct double motion ? working the legs as well as the arms ? has been a hallmark of the Exercycle for decades. As an ad in the old magazine Holiday puts it, "Any normal adult, regardless of size, weight or sedentary condition, can, with the help of this wonderful automatic exerciser, simulate the fast, vigorous movement of the expert cyclist, runner, swimmer, rower or gymnast. Yes! In less than 5 days, you'll be doing exercises that simply amaze you, and at a pace that will delight and astound you."

That same ad screams: "Youthful energy after 35!" Because that's the age, of course, when we really start plunging downhill.

The ad also notes the "silent, vibrationless" motor, which really pedals for you, but can be adjusted as you build your endurance. It uses less electricity than a TV set, and "you can ride it while others sleep." Another ad says it's a "great husband and wife treat."

We assume they're talking about its intended purpose, not the way two characters used it in "Sixteen Candles."

Source: http://www.ocregister.com/articles/exercycle-495880-new-pedals.html

JJ Watt jerry sandusky johnny depp hayden panettiere raul ibanez completely wrong mila kunis