TED-Ed: The treadmill's dark and twisted past - Conor Heffernan

Treadmills were originally invented in the 1800s as a form of punishment for English prisoners. Designed by Sir William Cubitt, these devices forced prisoners to step continuously on a large paddle wheel, which powered mills and other machinery. Despite their harshness, treadmills spread across the British Empire and America, leading to significant physical strain on prisoners. By the late 19th century, they were banned in England for being excessively cruel. However, treadmills reemerged in the 20th century as fitness equipment, gaining popularity during the jogging craze of the 1970s and remaining a staple in modern exercise routines.

What was the primary reason for introducing treadmills in English prisons during the 1800s?

• To provide prisoners with a recreational activity

• To generate electricity for the prison

• To punish prisoners and aid in their rehabilitation

• To improve the physical fitness of prisoners

How did the original treadmill designed by Sir William Cubitt function?

• It was a stationary bike that powered mills

• It was a rowing machine used for exercise

• It was a large paddle wheel that prisoners stepped on

• It was a conveyor belt that transported goods

What was one of the economic benefits of using treadmills in prisons?

• They reduced the cost of food for prisoners

• They helped rebuild the British economy by powering mills

• They increased the production of textiles

• They generated electricity for the prison

Why were treadmills eventually banned in English prisons?

• They caused too many injuries among prisoners

• They were considered excessively cruel

• They were found to be ineffective for rehabilitation

• They were too expensive to maintain

What event in the 1970s contributed to the resurgence of treadmills as popular exercise equipment?

• The invention of the electric treadmill

• The jogging craze in the United States

• The introduction of fitness classes in gyms

• The development of home workout videos