HEALTHY OR HOAX?

It's 3am, and the world is still sleeping. I, on the other hand, am wide-eyed and bushy-tailed. Menopause, older age, the wine at dinner - whatever the reason, I'm awake when I should be snoozing. I find myself turning on the television because my eyes won't focus on the words in my book. Within minutes of surfing the channels, I have found God (if I pledge money, of course), learned how to chop onions without crying, and witnessed belly reduction without surgery or exercise. All of it can be mine if I'd just call the toll-free number on the screen...

You've seen them. Those infomercials that so slickly entice you to buy in the wee hours of the morning. What you hear are promises. What you're buying is hope - hope for a better something. I'm most intrigued by the exercise equipment, so I listen intently. A lean, tanned woman in her thirties glides effortlessly on a device resembling half of a hamster wheel with poles. She assures me that her body can be mine in just minutes a day. On another channel, before and after testimonials show sweat-drenched exercisers doing push-ups in their formal living rooms. And then there's the exercise gadget that requires radical hand shaking movements that look - well - not like any fitness exercise I've ever done. But the promises are pedaled and, at that hour of the morning, most folks don't know what day it is let alone whether belly fat can evaporate in mere minutes a day.

So, that's where I can help. When an infomercial prompts you to grab your phone and call, pause and first ask yourself the following questions.

1. What is the ad promising to deliver?

The promise can be tangible - a flat belly, for example - or elusive, like happiness or enhanced attractiveness. Often, both types of promises are entwined in the message.

2. Does the promise sound realistic?

If you've failed before now to attain what they're promising, examine the differences that exist in this product.

3. Is the ad emphasizing instant results, or no effort or time required on your part to obtain the prize promised?

Be wary! Improved fitness always requires time, work and consistency. Those aren't super selling tag lines, but they're true nonetheless.

4. Is the product space-consuming?

With demonstrations of fold-away fitness equipment, be warned that your commitment to using it will fold away with it. If you don't see it or it's an effort to take it out, you're not likely to use it.

5. How functional is the product?

One piece of equipment per muscle group can add up to a lot of clutter! Stick to pieces that work more than one muscle group, especially if they are large.

6. Does the product appear safe FOR YOU?

The ad may cite safety features and assurances that sound convincing, but they are general, at best. If you have a physical limitation, check with your doctor first.

7. Can you really see yourself using this product?

Remember, home exercise programs of all types are convenient and often effective. But they also require the most self-discipline to insure success. If you doubt your commitment, try a class, gym membership or DVD first. It might spare you both the expense and the unnecessary failure.

So, the next time you're half-asleep and a sure target for advertisers who know exactly what you desire (even if you don't), take pause and ask yourself these questions first. Better yet, write down the toll-free number and sleep on it.