Evaluating Fitness and Health Products
Instructions:
Complete this activity by evaluating a fitness advertisement you see or hear regularly. Find one example (from magazines, TV, radio ads, or online) of claims on fitness or health products. Answer the following questions on the product of your choice.
- What product or program did you choose? Are the claims about this product supported by several scientific studies that are independent of the company producing the product?
- Are you confident that the product is both safe and effective? Explain your answer.
- What are the credentials of the author or person endorsing the product? Is the information provided by an expert in the field of exercise science or health?
- Are the benefits of the product realistic? Explain your answer with detail and examples.
- Does the ad contain gimmick words, such as “quick,” “spot reduce,” or “just minutes a day”? If so, explain what is provided to help sell this product.
- Is the main purpose of the ad to provide useful information or only to sell a product? Explain your answer.
