The Contour Core Sculpting System is an ab belt that uses electrical muscle stimulation to contract the muscles of the abdomen. Using a rhythmic pattern, the belt simulates a workout without you doing any work. The Contour Core Sculpting System claims to provide a workout in a more efficient way than crunches or situps, and sculpts and firms the muscles of the abdomen. There are pros and cons to using an ab belt such as the Contour Care Sculpting System.
How it Works
The user straps the Contour Core Sculpting System aroun her waist. Once the machine is turned on, it emits between 10 and 120 electrical impulses per second, depending on the program selected. These electrical impulses stimulate the muscles beneath the belt, causing them to contract and relax. This contracting and relaxing rhythm works the muscles and forces them to work.
Pros
People who don't have a lot of fat on their midsection will see results with this product, because the machine doesn't burn fat, it just tones muscle. People who are unable to perform ab exercises might see some results with this product. The belt may also be used to increase blood flow to flush lactic acid from muscles following a strenuous workout. Some people also have used the Contour Core Sculpting System to relieve back pain, although that isn't an approved use.
Cons
Some people find the electrical shocks uncomfortable, even at the lowest setting. The machine is fairly expensive -- $199 for the basic unit -- and it requires gel pads for use. Those gel pads need to be replaced with use, which is an additional expense. There is no actual "workout" involved, so the user gains no cardiovascular benefits, and doesn't gain in strength or endurance. The belt will not burn fat, so it will provide no discernible change to overweight users. Another expense is the batteries that power the belt.
Caution
The Contour Core Sculpting System should never be used on injured or unhealthy muscles. Pregnant women, and women who have just had their babies should not use the belt. People with joint injuries should not use the Contour Core Sculpting System.
References
- Contour Core Sculpturing System Official Site
- "Bodybuilding Anatomy"; Nick Evans; 2007
- American College of Sports Medicince Resources for the Personal Trainer, 2007
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