Why the modern treadmill was once a tool for prison punishment

History · Published 7 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: While 53 million people use treadmills for fitness annually, these machines were not originally designed for exercise. This video explores the forgotten origins of the treadmill and how its purpose has shifted from a punitive device to a staple of the modern fitness industry.

The treadmill's history extends back thousands of years, though its application has changed significantly over time.

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