gymnasticon

The Gymnasticon, invented by Francis Lowndes in 1796, was an exercise machine which main purpose was to exercise the joints of a person’s body.

Uses

The machine was mainly used for medical purposes, such as treatment of gout, rheumatism, palsy and other illnesses. 

It was also used to aid the sick in forcing involuntary movement of the joints as they might have problems with such movement

In addition, it was used by the physically fit as a type of muscle training machine.

How it works

The Gymnasticon consists of a set of flywheels which are connected to wooden treadles, for the feet, and cranks, for the hands. The wooden treadles and the cranks could either work together of operate separately, depending on the user’s preference.