In one small study, people using ab stimulators also saw small decreases in waist size, even when their weight stayed the same. Research has shown that electrical stimulation training can boost muscle endurance as well as strength. It’s approved for toning, firming, and strengthening ab muscles. The FDA has approved one over-the-counter ab stimulator, the Slendertone Flex, sold by BMR neuroTech Inc. What Are Ab Stimulators?Īb stimulators are electronic muscle stimulators that focus on your core. In the former Soviet Union, elite athletes saw 30% to 40% improvements in strength, which suggests this form of stimulation may be more effective than exercise alone.ĭoctors can prescribe them to help people recover muscle strength after:ĭoctors may also prescribe medical muscle stimulators to prevent muscle atrophy and relax muscle spasms. Physical therapists have used this type of training since the 1960s to improve and maintain muscle strength after surgery. They’re often used for physical therapy or rehab. What Are Electronic Muscle Stimulators?Įlectronic muscle stimulators work by sending electrical signals to contract your muscles. And ab stimulators, especially those that aren't approved by the FDA, have some risks. However, they won’t help you lose weight, or get “rock hard” abs without diet and exercise. Ab stimulators, a type of electronic muscle stimulator, are devices that can make your abdominal muscles appear firmer and more toned by electronically stimulating them.

Muscle stimulator machine