Japanese to get portable personal trainers -- on their ears

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2008

TOKYO (AFP) — A Japanese firm on Tuesday unveiled a portable, personal exercise instructor in the form of a headset which will give instant advice by checking the pulse on the wearer's earlobe.

The "Body Trainer" by Sega Toys Co. comprises a phone to be put in the right ear and a tiny clip to be attached to the left ear monitoring the user's heartbeat.

Sega Toys president Isao Kokubun said the product was aimed at establishing a new business field of "medical entertainment."

"We have been pushing for entertainment that adults can also enjoy," Kokubun told reporters. "There is a great potential for products that make you healthy while having fun."

Japan has one of the world's oldest populations, triggering realignment in the toy industry as companies...