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 were the conditions like for prisoners who used the treadmill?

How did the perception of treadmills change from the 19th century to the 20th century?