The Physics of the Contour Ab Belt

The Contour Ab Belt advertises itself as an electronic muscle stimulator. It uses electromuscle stimulation technology to send electrical impulses to your abdominal muscles. As a result, your abdominal muscles constrict and contract. Manufacturers of the device claim it strengthens and tones abdominal muscles without the strain and pain of situps or crunches. Despite these claims, the American Council on Exercise advises that it is not possible to pick and choose where to lose weight or gain muscle. There is no medical evidence that any exercise belt can give you six-pack abs.

Contour Ab Belt

The Contour Ab Belt comes with a remote control, instructional DVD, a diet and exercise guide as well as a care manual and a storage bag. The device uses electromuscle stimulation technology in order to send electrical impulses to your abdominal muscles. The technology is integrated into four contour gel pads that are found in the belt. According to manufacturers of the product, the Contour Ab Belt delivers 150 contractions per session.

Electrical Impulses

Similar to the electrical impulses delivered by a pacemaker for the heart, electrical impulses are delivered from the belt to your abdomen, which cause your abdominal muscles to constrict and contract as if you are performing abdominal-strengthening exercises. According to the manufacturer, hospitals and rehab centers have used electromuscle stimulation technology for more than 30 years. The user of the belt chooses the intensity level of the impulses, which range from 0 to 100. According to the instructions, users are recommended to wear the belt for 10 minutes a day.

Diet and Exercise

In addition to the belt, the device comes with a diet and exercise plan. The diet plan is broken up into six small meals that equals 1,400 calories a day for women and 1,800 calories a day for men. Manufacturers of the Contour Ab Belt suggests that following the diet will reduce the fat that is found on top of your abdominals. Manufacturers also claim the 12-week exercise plan that is provided with the belt will help speed up your metabolism. Besides customer testimonies, there is no factual evidence that any of these claims are true.

Truth About Spot Reduction

The Contour Belt sounds easy to use and its advertising and customer claims are enticing; however, for weight loss and other health benefits, MayoClinic.com advises performing 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise a week. It also encourages eating a healthy, well-balanced diet that features smaller portions as well as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, the American Council on Exercise advises that it is not possible to spot reduce. Although the device is cleared to be used for strengthening and conditioning abdominal muscles, there is no guarantee you will achieve stronger abdominal muscles or a six-pack. Furthermore, the device may cause damage or burn your skin. Speak with your doctor before starting any new exercise program, including the Contour Ab Belt.

References

Article reviewed by Jessica Lyons Last updated on: Jul 12, 2011

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