Horse-riding exercise machines developed by Matsushita Electric Works Ltd. can help alleviate diabetes symptoms, according to a company research center and medical specialists.
Study results showing that use of the firm's Joba exercisers can ease diabetes symptoms and minimize blood pressure elevation were recently unveiled at a Japan Diabetes Society meeting, they said.
Patients with heart or lung problems and are not able to exercise can use the machines, as can elderly people, according to the study.
"We hope they will be of use to help with the disease," a Matsushita official said.
The firm, which makes building materials and lighting equipment, started selling the machines in 2000.
They simulate the sensation of riding a horse by moving in different directions, in the process providing an entire-body workout, including back, abdominal and thigh muscles.
Because the machines only require users to sit and keep their balance, the workout has a limited impact on heart rate and blood pressure.
