Chi Machines are based on the belief that a universal life force energy (chi) permeates the universe and can be used to help unblock the flow of chi in the body. Belief in a universal life force is part of a pantheistic belief system that is espoused by the New Age as well as many Eastern religions which is why it is not compatible with Christianity.

For those who have never heard of it, a Chi Machine is a gadget used as a form of “passive aerobic” exercise that promoters say can promote detoxification and healing. The machine oscillates from side to side at approximately 144 times per minute. The claim is that 15 minutes on the machine is the equivalent of 1.5 hours of walking. The user is instructed to lay on the floor with their ankles resting on the machine and to think “happy calming thoughts” while using the device.

“It may firm your hips, thighs, and abdomen and often will support a healthy weight,” this site claims. “The figure-8 motion of the machine is similar to the movement of a goldfish. This movement has a marked beneficial effect upon the human body. It temporarily relaxes the muscles, may improve energy flow, as well as relieving muscular aches throughout the body.”

The original chi machine is known as the Sun Ancon Chi Machine which was invented by Dr. Shizou Inoue who claims it was the result of 38 years of medical and scientific research and came about as a result of watching goldfish swim. Dr. Inoue believes that fish oxygenation occurs by combining rhythmic muscle contractions with stimulation of the autonomic nerves in the spinal column, and believes this occurs in other creatures as well, including humans.

Upon further study, he claims to have determined that "a particular rate of oscillation and a well-defined range of motion must be obtained for optimal oxygenation of the human body" and secured a patent for this research, which resulted in the creation of a portable Chi Machine.

Unfortunately, there is no medical or scientific support for any of these claims and even though proponents claim it has FDA approval, this is only for use as a therapeutic massage device. In fact, they have already been warned by the FDA to stop making unsupported claims about their device.

This explains why Chi Machines are listed on the “Questionable Device” list at Quackwatch, a website that features the work of an international network of professionals concerned about health-related fraud, scams, myths and fallacies.

With machines ranging in price from $600 to $800, I would definitely think twice before making this kind of an investment in a device that has little or no scientific backing.