Muscle stimulators are sold over the counter and marketed to consumers looking to lose weight and tone without exercise. Although muscle stimulators have some benefits, weight loss requires a reduced-calorie diet and regular sessions of physical activity. Speak to your doctor before using any type of products to lose weight.
Effects
Electronic muscle stimulators use electrical currents to work the muscles in the body. A belt with attached electrodes is secured to the body and positioned against the skin. Electrical currents emitted by the stimulator causes the muscles to contract. The belt remains on the skin for 20-to-30-minute sessions, and manufacturers of the products recommend usage a minimum of three days per week.
Expert Insight
According to a May 2010 study funded by the American Council of Exercise and conducted at the University of Wisconsin, six weeks of using an electronic muscle stimulator improved strength and endurance in the buttocks. The product used in the study was the Slendertone Bottom Toner and the device was considered as effective as a regular routine of hip extension exercises.
Considerations
Although muscle stimulators may provide toning and strengthening benefits, you will not experience weight loss from regularly use. The Food and Drug Administration has only approved electronic muscle stimulators for toning, strengthening and firming muscles. It has not been approved for weight loss or girth reduction purposes. The Federal Trade Commission in 2002 charged manufacturers of electronic muscle stimulator belts of making false claims about their products including weight loss.
Warning
You may experience side effects while using a muscle stimulator device. Possible side effects include burns, shocks, skin irritation and bruising at the application site. If you have an implantation device, such as an IUD or defibrillator, you should not use the product without approval from a doctor. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use a muscle stimulator device.
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