Weight loss belts are fitness tools that contain electric stimulators to help to tone abdominal muscles. Some companies market weight loss belts as a means to lose fat around the stomach. According to the Federal Trade Commission, or FTC, some manufacturers of weight loss belts have been charged with making false claims in terms of weight loss associated with the products.
Function
According to Fitness Magazine, the electrical belts that are marketed as weight loss tools are traditionally used in physical therapy to relax muscle spasms, prevent atrophy and to increase muscular function. These belts are manufactured and marketed for weight loss around the stomach. For example, Diet Spotlight explains that the Contour Ab Belt is used by weight loss hopefuls who desire toned abs without doing sit-ups and crunches.
Purported Benefits
Muscle contraction purportedly caused by the electric pulses of weight loss belts does not burn fat, but may strengthen abdominal muscles. Diet Spotlight points out that weight loss belts will likely, if anything, define existing muscles around your stomach. This purported use might be beneficial if you have a flat stomach, but fail to gain muscle definition through your regular exercise routine. Diet Spotlight also reports that weight loss belts help to massage back muscles.
False Claims
The FTC charged three companies with false marketing claims in 2002. These included Fast Abs, AB Energizer and AbTronic. The claims stated that users of the weight loss belts could lose the same amount of weight without sweating through exercise. The FTC also charged the companies with false promises of inches lost in a certain number of days.
Risks
The greatest risk of weight loss belts is the investment of such products. According to the FTC, weight loss belts range in price between $40 and $120. In addition, money-back guarantees may result in increased shipping costs if you decide to return the belt back to the manufacturer. Although the FTC fined certain companies for false advertisements, it is important to carefully read the disclaimers of all fitness products.
Prevention/Solution
When considering a weight loss belt, research the company thoroughly. Diet Spotlight advocates the use of such belts only by those who are already fit and have a regular exercise regimen. When losing weight, you need to burn 3,500 calories per pound of fat. Since weight loss belts do not burn calories, you will not lose fat around the abdomen. The focus should instead be on calorie reduction through daily workouts and a balanced diet. Strengthening exercises, such as Pilates, may help you to tone your core even further.
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