AbDoer. Ab Roller. Ab-this, Ab-that. You can roll, rock, and receive electric shocks until you achieve a tight, trimmed tummy. Well, according to the makers of those magic ab devices, you can. But what do the professionals have to say about it?
Rolling, swinging, etc.
Bad news, ab machine buyers. The American Council on Exercise (ACE) did a study comparing these devices to their basic crunch, oblique crunch, and reverse curl. And what did they find? There really is no benefit to using abdominal devices. The study found that those basic unassisted ab moves were just as effective as device-assisted workouts…and much cheaper.
Also, there was a big difference in comfort from device to device, and it mostly depended on your body type. For example, shorter study participants had trouble reaching the top bar on the ABSculptor and Ab Roller Plus. So, in addition to not helping, they are also not comfortable or in proportion for each body type.
Shock your way to fabulous abs
Wouldn’t it be great if those electrical stimulation belts (Ab Energizer, AbTronic, etc.) worked? You could just sit back and watch TV while you work your way to a washboard belly. Not so fast. Another ACE study also disproves the claims made by these abdominal belts.
The study looked at whether or not the belts provide weight or fat loss, and whether or not they improve strength and overall appearance. While this type of electrical stimulation has been used successfully for rehabilitation, it was of no use to those looking to improve their appearance. After eight weeks of following the manufacturer’s instructions, study participants did not achieve significant weight or fat loss and did not improve their strength or appearance.
Another bummer: Some participants also found the treatments painful when high levels of stimulation were used.
Bottom line
Unless you want a slim, trim bank account, stick to a diet and exercise in your quest for a flat stomach!