"Get in Shape Without Setting Foot in a Gym"?? SOLD. But do they work?

Vivian Manning-Schaffel: Ever since I had my second kid, I've been waiting with bated breath for those pesky last few inches to melt from my hips and thighs. And not without effort. I go to the gym pretty consistently -- three times a week. I mix up my workout. I eat right ... well ... as long as there aren't any fries beckoning me from the table. But the fact that I still have a pulse makes me a marvel of science because I've been waiting for more than two years now -- and this post-baby bulk is deeply committed to my backside.

As claimed in their marketing materials, Skechers Shape-ups help you "Get in shape without setting foot in a gym." And all I've got to do is tie laces and cruise about my business? Who wouldn't lunge toward footwear that promised all that?

Before scooping up a pair, I asked my miraculous massage therapist her advice. I've had back surgery, so I feel compelled to consult her expertise before embarking on any venture that claims to meddle with my posture, for good or for evil.

"Of course they'd be good for you," she replied enthusiastically, admitting immediately that she too had gone and scored herself a pair. "They align you! Once your feet adjust to the sole, you'll actually feel a little better."

I immediately proceeded to my nearby Skechers retailer. After careful review of the designs up for grabs, I settled on a black and white pair that most resembled sneakers. At 5'2", I appreciated their instant lift, and disembarked feeling like Tom Cruise at a movie premiere.

At first, it was challenging to gain my balance, as the physical challenge lies in mastering the sneak's rounded heel. But once I got the hang of it, I found them quite comfortable. They encourage me to tuck my ass in, as opposed to swaying back. After the first hour, I felt my pelvic and butt muscles engage without looking or feeling awkward in a street reflection check. This effect continues once the sneakers come off. I feel like I'm standing more evenly on my feet.

It's now a month later, and I still dig them. But have they made a difference? People have been saying I look like I've lost weight, in spite of the fact that I've gained five pounds, so that's very encouraging. And after taking them off, I've noticed I feel less stress on my normally very stiff low back.

Comfort? Less stress? Compliments about thinness in spite of weight gain? What's not to love?

Now to see if wearing them to the gym will intensify the slimming effect ...

Vivian Manning-Schaffel has written for Babble, Parenting, The Advocate, The New York Post, Business Week and a variety of other publications and lives and works in the heart of breeder Brooklyn with her husband and two kids. She authors two pop culture blogs: The Mad Mom and A Hag Supreme, and is on the web at vivianmanningschaffel.com.