An electrical abdominal workout is performed with the use of belts that provide electronic muscle stimulation. As the abs are exposed to the electrical stimulation, the muscles contract. Although the technology used in the ab belts has been found to be marginally effective, you can achieve the same results through traditional abdominal exercise.
Usage
The Food and Drug Administration has approved the Slendertone belt for use in toning and strengthening the muscles in the abdomen. To use the belt, you place the device on your abdomen for 20 to 30 minutes. You can adjust the intensity level, and the manufacturer advises that you should gradually increase the stimulation. You should wear the belt a minimum of three days per week.
Effects
During electronic muscle stimulation of your abdomen, an electrical pulse is sent through the gel pads placed on the belt. The current passes through the skin and causes the abdominal muscles to contract repeatedly. Although these contractions will not reduce girth or cause you to have "six-pack abs," it is helpful in building strength in the abs and endurance. If you want a major change in the look of your abs, you'll need to eat a calorie-controlled diet and make time for cardio exercise as well.
Warning
If you use an abdominal belt to work the core, you may experience some side effects, which include burns, skin irritation, itching and discomfort at the site of the electrical pads. If you feel any pain during use, discontinue immediately. If you are pregnant or have an implantation device, you should avoid using electronic muscle stimulation products.
Considerations
Keep in mind that not all of the claims made by makers of electric ab workout devices are true. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission charged three companies -- AbTronic, Fast Abs and Ab Energizer -- with making false claims about their products. The marketing claims targeted by the FTC include the promise of rock-hard abs, the guarantee of lost inches in 30 days, and the claim that the device is more effective than traditional exercise.
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Electronic Muscle Stimulators
- Federal Trade Commission: FTC Charges Three Top-Selling Electronic Abdominal Exercise Belts with Making False Claims
- Fitness; Slimming Electric Belts and Russian Bells: Are They Fitness Rip-Offs or Fitness Bargains?; Charles Stuart Platkin
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