How to Use a Muscle Stimulator on My Abs

There are quite a few muscle stimulating devices on the market that promise its users tighter and firmer abs. Unfortunately, the FDA explains that only one brand may be able to fulfill such a promise. Also known as EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulators) devices, muscle stimulators electrically excite your muscles, causing them to contract. Unlike exercise that stimulates your muscles via the brain, EMS units stimulate your ab muscles via the nerve, according to Vanderbilt University.

Stretch the muscle stimulator belt around your waist. Center the large middle pad over your belly button, making sure that the smaller pads on either side lie over the soft area of your abdominal muscles between your ribs and hipbones.

Secure the muscle stimulator belt. Most muscle stimulators have a hook-and-loop fastener that helps keep it in place. The muscle stimulator pads should lie snugly against your skin.

Switch on your EMS belt using the switch or button located on the front panel of the device.

Set the toning level so that you can feel your abs contract comfortably. Ab devices usually have up and down “arrow” buttons that you can use to adjust intensity.

Allow the muscle stimulator to work your abs for 25 minutes per day, five times per week, if you are a beginner. Follow the 25-minute time frame for the first four weeks. Once you are a seasoned EMS user, 40-minute sessions should suffice.

Turn the device off once you are through with your ab muscle stimulating session. Remove the belt and store it away until your next use.

Record your daily workout in a notebook or on a calendar so that you will know when it is time to move up to the next level.

Tips

Always allow at least six hours of rest between ab stimulating sessions.

The ab stimulator should fit snugly, not tightly.

Always read the instructions that come with your particular brand of EMS muscle stimulator before use. Most manufacturers provide special assembly instructions, troubleshooting instructions and warranty information that is beneficial to the consumer.

Warnings

Do not overdo it. If you feel pain or discomfort at any time using the EMS ab stimulator, discontinue use immediately. If symptoms continue, seek medical attention.

Consult your physician before using any EMS device. Do not use a muscle stimulator if you are pregnant or have given birth within the last six weeks. If you have any electronic implants, suffer from cancer or epilepsy, or if you take insulin for diabetes, do not use the ab stimulator. Do not use the AB stimulator on children.