Ab Belt Review: Contour Abs, Slendertone & Flex Belt compared!

Ab Belts: Contour Abs & Flex Belt Last update: 03/08/2024

Ab belts have seen a huge popularity surge in recent months, for example you have probably seen the Contour Abs commercial on television. But are they worth the money?
These electronic ab belts use the same technology that has been used on physical therapy patients for over 20 years. They typically come with a special type of gel pads that are placed over your abdominal muscles. The ab belt then sends a charge through the pads that goes into the muscles and causes them to flex and contract.

Do ab belts really work?

While earlier versions of ab toning belts were not always that effective, the newest versions of ab belts have been cleared by the FDA for toning, strengthening and firming the abdominal muscles. In fact, one brand of ab belt called the Flex Belt was the first EMS product to be cleared by the FDA as a Class II medical device.
Multiple clinical trials have also been performed on the ab belts. The largest study conducted at Wisconsin La-Crosse University was published in the Journal of Sports Medicine with the following results:

  • 100% of the participants reported that their abs felt more toned and firmed
  • 92.3% felt the firmness of their ab muscles increased

These are considered outstanding results and they coincide with the countless positive user reviews on consumer websites and forums.

Research targets specific brands of ab belts

However, not all ab belts are created equal. Some are definitely of a higher quality than others, and it pays to do your research ahead of time before spending your hard-earned money on an ab belt.
We have put together a list of what we feel are the best ab belts on the market today. We rated the ab belts on a 5-point scale based on quality, effectiveness and value:

Ab Belt Features Rechargeable battery Proven results
(clinical trials)
Warranty Money Back Price Rating Where to buy
Programs Levels
Flex Belt 10 150 Yes Yes 2 years 60 days $199

Rating: ★★★★★ 

www.theflexbelt.com
Contour Abs 6 100 No No 1 year 30 days $199

Rating: ★★★★☆ 

www.thecontour.tv
Slendertone Flex 10 130 No No 2 years 8 week $149

Rating: ★★★½☆ 

www.slendertoneusa.com
Sport-Elec 5 100 No No 30 days 30 days $149

Rating: ★★★☆☆ 

www.buymysportelec.com

The ab belt reviews in details:

The Flex Belt is probably the highest quality ab belt that money can buy. The Flexbelt is the only ab belt that is backed up by third party clinical trials. In a clinical study conducted by John Porcari, PhD, a renowned Professor of Exercise and Sport Science , 92% of the participants reported increased firmness of their abs and even 100% of the people said their abs felt much more toned and firmed after using the Flex Belt for 6 weeks.
Priced at right around $200, it includes the Flex Ab Belt with 3 gel pads, a rechargeable battery pack, an extension so it will fit people with larger waists, a carrying case, and a user’s manual. The gel pads are pre-positioned and made of medical-grade materials, which makes it especially easy to use. It also includes 10 different training programs, 150 intensity levels, a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 2-year warranty.

The Contour Abs includes 4 gel pads but unfortunately doesn’t come with a rechargeable power unit; instead it runs on 4 AAA batteries. The Contour Ab Belt offers 6 training programs and 100 intensity levels.
It is priced pretty much the same as the Flex Belt, but overall the Contour Belt doesn’t seem to be as well-made. A 30-day money back guarantee is included, together with a 1-year warranty which is only half of what the rivals offer.
Having said that, the Ab Contour Belt is a reasonable choice and is of good quality overall. It is fairly easy to use and many users do report good results after using it.

The Slendertone System Abs and the Slendertone Flex belt are both available from the Slendertone company. The Slendertone System Abs includes 3 gel pads, a rechargeable power unity, 7 training programs, 99 intensity levels, an 8-week money back guarantee, and a 2-year warranty. It is priced at $199.
The Slendertone Flex belt costs about $120 and features 3 gel pads, 10 programs, 130 intensity levels, an 8-week money back guarantee, a 2-year warranty, and it runs on 3 AAA batteries.
The Slendertone System Abs and the Slendertone Flex come in “one size fits most,” and they do deliver a perfectly reasonable workout for those who are looking for good results and stronger abs.

The Sport-Elec Shape’n’Tone is new on the market and also costs right around $150. But it doesn’t have the high manufacturing quality of the Contour Ab Belt and the Flex Belt. Overall though, it has been reported to give rather decent results—about the same as the Slendertone Flex. It has built-in toning pads that are used with a toning gel, making it somewhat cumbersome and messy to use. It has a 30-day money back guarantee program, a 30-day warranty, and runs on batteries.

Conclusions

If you want to improve the condition of your abs, then there’s no doubt that using an electronic ab belt to give you the strength and tone you are looking for can give you the results that you want. It makes sense to check out the ab belt review table above and compare the different features before making a decision.

Overall, the Flex Belt appears to offer you the best ab toning bang for your buck. The silver medal would probably go to the Contour Abs, which has also been reported to give users decent results.

76 Comments:

  1. Sylvia on November 6th, 2010

    My daughter and I purchased the Contour ABS belt, and we did feel the sensation however we did not loose any inches and the gel pads DO NOT LAST! nor when they are advertising the product do they show that they have the gel pads on. And when she flexes the muscles it is NOT the Contour Belt but in fact as she is speaking to you and then she flexes her own ab muscles while standing there. if you take notice when she removes the ab belt it does not stick to her at all…That’s because she HAS NO PADS ON! if she did it would certainly stick to her skin as it does with me, my daughter and anyone else who uses this product…Because the ab contour belt and your own body heat, melt the gel that is on the pads…So YES the CONTOUR ABS IS A SCAM! and when you do try to get a refund within the 30 day trial period you really only have 10 days to return it. plus YOU have to pay the shipping and handling. So would I recommend it NEVER would I continue to use it NO! would I keep it NO! would I trash it ABSOLUTLY! have I trashed it 100% SURE DID!

  2. JIm on November 8th, 2010

    These things don’t work. Do sit ups!

  3. Lusciouscm on November 12th, 2010

    The flex belt does work. Of course with most exercise equipment it will work different for different people. I ordered the flex ab belt didn’t really have any issues as far as that goes and at first it just sat around cause i forgot about it. I have never had a weight problem but my stomach has always been an issue. I don’t use it like I should but to make up for that I will use it over and over at one time. After a few days I always see results and I don’t even eat right so yes it does work. It is just a lazy alternative to doing the work yourself and it keeps you from having neck and back problems. Overall if u use it right and as often as you should you will see results.

  4. Lucy on December 1st, 2010

    @ Jim- Have you actually ever used an ab belt? I doubt it, because if you had you’d know these things work great.

    @ Lusciouscm- I’ve found the same thing with my diet, the flex belt tones abs really well, but you need to keep body fat down so that you can actually see them!

  5. Sherry-ann on December 15th, 2010

    The Contour Belt is a rip off..I would not advise anyone to buy that shit. I now have it as an accessory but am about to dump it….Waste of my time and money…

  6. mario on December 29th, 2010

    the flex belt rocks !!!! only had it five days nd i can see a change in my mid section !! ITS FREAKING AMAZING !! it works best if u had abs before though its all about muscle memory

  7. Me on January 11th, 2011

    Jim is stupid. Not everyone can do sit ups, dipshit. I have back problems that keep me from being able to

  8. Alli on January 18th, 2011

    I bought the Flex belt & I love it. I wish it wasn’t “restricted” to having to be over your belly button, but even with the sticky gel pads (that don’t melt) my muscles do constrict, the gel pads don’t last as long as i’d like, but they still work when they are past their recommended replacement.
    I have gone from 220 to 184 (as 1-18-11) I have not used it constantly in the past month because i need to replace the pads, but I would recommend & have recommended this product to others. I was interested in trying the Contour belt because its not limited according to the tv ad, but common sense would tell you that if it comes with gel pads & its not sticking to the model’s, then you know that they aren’t using them correctly. But you don’t just rely on them to prove that it works. I have had improvement in my midsection that i can feel under my fat, which i didn’t even have when i was skinny & tone….it works. Its not going to be a match for everyone & if you don’t follow what they recommend, it may not work at all.
    I wear while doing laundry, washing dishes & feeding my livestock as well as sitting at the computer….its worked for me & that’s all i can vouch for.

  9. alonzo on January 21st, 2011

    Well for all the people that find their products junk, I’ll take it. I think its all in your head. I have a couple friends that have one of the three types of ab belts and they love them. Try again

  10. Ebony on January 24th, 2011

    I am debating on getting this ab belt. I work out a lot! I do a lot of ab workouts but want to define my six pack. I usually read reviews to dtermine my decision on buying something but the pros and cons equal out on here. can anyone give me a pointer as to say this is necessary for me?

  11. tbuff on January 27th, 2011

    How much do the gel pads cost? Where do you buy them?

  12. leigh on February 4th, 2011

    I was a little sceptcial about spending that kind of money ,for something ordered online. but i bit the bullet and i ordered the flex belt, i had some trouble at first ,i just couldnt get my stomach mussles to flex without having up in the 90’s but i was no wear ready for the settings .so after a few gel pads . i put water on the pads (little bit)
    and that seemed to help i feel that i should be getting more from the stomach but it does flex my abdomen, so i would say it does what it claims,

  13. Dakotah on February 13th, 2011

    One of you guys that hate your ab belt so much should just give it to me or let me buy it cheap especially if you’re just going to throw it away :)

  14. jenn on March 23rd, 2011

    i have a ab contour and it does not work at all i use to use it everyday 3 times a day and did not see any results at all…..contour does not work it was a waist of money.

  15. Mike on March 28th, 2011

    I am in the military and work out constantly yet for me I’ve always had issues with my waistline no matter the amount of cardio and situps I do. After losing 30 lbs only an inch came off my waistline, however since adding in the flex belt 3 times a week I have lost an additional 3.5 inches so for anyone who says these are a sham or only for lazy people your wrong. I would recommend this to anyone that wants to tone a little. And no your not gonna lose weight sitting around eating cookies and icecream all day cause your wearing the ab belt you do need to help yourself a little too.

  16. Erek on March 30th, 2011

    I have to say the Ab Contour belt works for me. It only doesn’t work if you are not eating the right diet and exercising (to lose weight if you are overweight). I think the problem is people are buying these things thinking they can put them on for half an hour everyday and sit in front of the tv every evening eating donuts and ice cream and still wake up with a 6 pack the next day. For that you need a plastic surgeon, not an ab belt. However if you can lose the excess body fat (nothing to do with the belt) and want to have good stomach muscles showing through, then the belt helps with the stomach muscle development for sure.

  17. michelle on April 7th, 2011

    i suffered a brain stem stroke in sept 09 which for anyone who doesn’t know it basically cuts communication between your brain and body.i have been using the flex belt since jan 11 to rebuild core strength, i’m not saying its a miracle worker but for me its pretty close to it after just recently starting out pateint therapy, i was able to hold myself upright in a seated position using my core strength.

  18. KC on May 3rd, 2011

    I work out a lot and I get pretty fit everywhere else but have a hard time making my abs pop. I have abs and I just want it to come out so I am thinking of purchasing the flex belt. I think if you are fit, and has a thin layer of fat in your stomach adding a healthy diet to it, it should work. But for thicker and non active people, It might turn out a bit different..

  19. Anonymous on May 12th, 2011

    I ACTUALLY USE THE FLEX BELT. I KNOW PEOPLE THINK THESE FAD EXERCISE EQUIPMENTS ARE SCAMS BECAUSE THEY DON’T SHOW THE “IF YOU DO IT THIS WAY” PART BUT! UNFORTUNATELY, NOTHING IS GOING TO DO ALL THE WORK FOR YOU, PERIOD. I MEAN, IF ONLY THE BELT WILL GEL PAD ITSELF AND STRAP AROUND YOU FOR YOU RIGHT? LOL THE BELT REALLY DOES WORK THOUGH AND RESULTS SHOW QUICKER IF YOU USE IT AT THE HIGHEST SETTING THAT IS THE MOST SLIGHTLY UNCOMFORTABLE FOR YOU BECAUSE LIKE ANY EXERCISE YOU NEED TO SLIGHTLY PUSH YOURSELF SLIGHTLY! TO SEE RESULTS…. ALSO, THE GEL PADS ACTUALLY LAST LONGER IF YOU ZIPLOCK BAG THEM AFTER USE! HOPE THIS HELPS!

  20. wally on May 15th, 2011

    Well I have MS, and unable to do sit-ups. I find the flex belt amazing, I can actually see and feel my tummy muscles contracting. I am careful with what I eat as I am unable to move around, and so I need to stay at my current weight, but yes it does work. I use it several times a day for hours at a time. If you have my MS, then you will know – and if you don’t believe me, then your welcome to have my disease.

  21. joyce on May 19th, 2011

    I was in a bad car accident years ago and have a really messed up neck, back and caucus, this prevents me from being able to do some of the exercises I need to do to get rid of this gut of mine. I used to be athletic, and never had a gut before so I was wondering if the flex belt would work for me? I have a huge gut I’d like to lose and it’s not due to diet, it’s due to not being able to exercise. How long do the pads last and how much are they? And how often do you need to use it?

  22. Buni on May 23rd, 2011

    Hey….I need two of these..someone please sell them to me cheap if you don’t want them anymore. My email is lunarbuni at the ya and the hoo dot com. :D

  23. TS on May 23rd, 2011

    Well, this is my first time using the contour. I am at 192 and will see where it takes me in a couple of weeks. I am familiar with the ab belt but the first one I ever had was about 8 years ago but at that time, you had to use the actual gel and if you missed a spot, you were in for it. So, I am pleased with the gel pads.

    Well, lets see what happens. Talk to you soon.

  24. Cal on May 24th, 2011

    I’m getting married in 5 months and my fiance just told me where we’re going on our honeymoon (Florida – aka, the beach) so I’m a little freaked… I want to be able to wear a bikini and look sexy for him, but I have love handles, so I am dying to get rid of them before we go. I don’t weigh that much (131) but I’m 5’3” so you can guess where all the excess fat goes. I’m on the South Beach Diet now and it’s working ok (I’ve lost 4 pounds so far…so technically I weigh 127), but I’m thinking about adding this flex belt to my diet/exercise plan to help with toning. My fiance’s mom already has one, but it’s just sitting around (she tends to buy stuff from adds on tv, but she never really uses them…I love her, but seriously…) anyway, I might borrow hers and see what happens. I’ll let you all know the results! :-)

  25. B Lev on May 25th, 2011

    My sister had an ab belt about 6 years ago that I used when I already had a solid six-pack. For some reason she got rid of it, but I will tell you that a high intensity setting for 30 mins or so lead me to feeling about sore as I ever have. So from someone with low body-fat and already in shape, it’s just a great new way to give your abs a challenge.

    They definitely work, I have no doubts but I don’t remember them being this expensive… If I can find one for under $100 then I’m gonna buy it, but otherwise I’m not gonna waste over 6 months worth of membership fees at a gym on it.

  26. Floyd on May 30th, 2011

    Ok so I just ordered the flex belt. Also joined gym for the 20 th time,like so many others. I consider myself your averag consumer and therefore susceptible to scams. I ll check back in in 60 days and report results …with no bullshit. I suspect many of the rave reviews are from the manufacturers employees….but who knows. If it works I’ll let you know. If not …look for my ad selling it on eBay . I have used the Hwave therapeutic device for shoulder and back pain and it was wonderful in relieving pain. But if it’s good enough for Kolbe and the Lakers and the entire Steelers team that was an easy choice. Still glad to see that elect stim device actually worked better than expected.

  27. chanel on June 5th, 2011

    Could anyone help me out, who has the flex belt, how do buy the pads for it and how much do they cost? This is the only concern holding me back from getting it so plz any info would be helpful :)

  28. d on June 12th, 2011

    I THINK THE FLEX BELT WORKS GREAT. ONE WEEK OF USE, I WENT FROM 154LB- 146LB AND MY STOMACH IS A LOT SMALLER AND TIGHTER . I LOVE IT. I’VE ONLY WENT TO LEVEL 29.

  29. George Hill on June 15th, 2011

    I have had the Contour ab belt for approximately three years. I didn’t buy it for the abs. I bought it to use like a tens unit. I had had a serious back operation which left me with extreme pain, both in the back and right leg. I have used the belt on my back, and it TREMENDOUSLY relieves pain, especially in the leg. The wires have slowly begun to lose contact, so I ordered new pads and new wires(three weeks ago) , but have not receive them YET, nor heard back from the company. (I ordered by telephone, not on-line)

  30. Reena on June 22nd, 2011

    I ordered the Contour Core Belt last month (May of 2011), and sent it back 3 days ago.

    (…!!!…Just for a heads up who ever has the Contour Belt, they don’t tell you all of the info about the money back went your making your order witch I thought was wrong of them and quite slay, the price you pay for the product pluse the shipping and handling is not what you’ll be refund, what will be refund is the payment you make that you don’t know about when making your order over the phone, they just take it out with you thinking that your just paying th shipping and handling part and all that good stuff…!!!…)

    My husband warned me that it was going to be disappointing but just had to try it. I am an off and on workout person, it’s just hard to keep devoted. Yes it is easy to forget at time and just lays around but I also don’t eat very well honeslty so it was probably just canceling out each other. I am 19, 5″3 and lb of 140, had some what of abd and was very toned fit recently married and want it back but more. Though I could feel my core improving dureing the first few days of useing it for a few hours a day eveyday and with everyday, going up on the instensidy, but I didn;t get to get pass level 1so there was no improvment. Keep in mind that that’s all I did was the Contour Belt so that as well wasn’t good. Personaly it was quit uncomfertable. After ready ALL of these reviews, I wish I have baught th Flex Belt it seems to be more promising than the Contour Belt so evryone says, maybe in late future I will try again but get the Flex Belt insted. For now I plan to join 24 hr Fitness and work on my improving my diet then so both.

    @■Floyd –
    I would love to by your Felx Belt so how much will you be putting it out for?

    To the people that are having questions of how getting more Gel pad –
    I believe you can order them through the company that you baught the belt you have, it’s somthing they keep in bisness, keep you trapped by keep buying supplies for the belt. for the prices, I have no clue, sorry, call and ask.

  31. Jay Mix on June 23rd, 2011

    I agree Jim is a dick and anASS$*!!. the Flexbelt works

  32. mark daurelio on July 11th, 2011

    Will The Flex belt work for me? I am T-10 parapaligec which means I have no controle over ab muscles under my belly button or obliques. My trunk ballance is terrible. $200 is a lot of money for SSDI. Can someone let me know if this would work for me…..I don’t care about rock hard abs, I just want some trunk stability.

  33. Kevin M on July 14th, 2011

    The ab contour is the best thing that I have ever tried. For a more advanced workout put the setting on the 20 Mhz setting and get on the eliptical machine. Then put it to whatever percentage level you can handle….You will see a difference immediately!

  34. Andrew on July 16th, 2011

    for anyone who wants to know where to buy the gel pads just go on the flex belt website its on the order now section for 15 bucks

  35. Joey Janza on July 31st, 2011

    I bought the flex belt and it works. I just think working out yourself is better, as it becomes part of your lifestyle.

  36. michael babineau` on August 3rd, 2011

    i am returning this contour belt and i want all my money refunded i don’t have a special return address i never received it but when you get this thing i want my money you took from me out of my bank account

  37. em on August 12th, 2011

    I will take one if ur willin to give it up if u say it don’t work im a mom of 5 with full time job n just no time to exercise….

  38. whg on August 24th, 2011

    I have not bought any one of the ab belt products “yet”. It seems to me that the science behind the ab belt is sound. If so, I was wondering if this product would be safe and possibly stimulate healing with abdominal hernia’s. Anybody know the answer to this?

  39. Mrs Robinson on September 1st, 2011

    I am 34 years old, mother of three children, and an Army veteran. I bought the contour belt about a year ago to strengthen my abs. I am 5’1 and I weigh about 125.I used it a few times and then became lazy and forgot about it for awhile.the truth is that I was kinda embarrassed for anyone to see me with it on because most people think it’s for lazy people or that it won’t work. When I did use it, I felt my abs were getting a good work out. I recently started using it again and am determined to use it continuously for a month. Even my husband has noticed my abdominal area showing some definition. I don’t owe it all to the belt though because I do exercise daily. The belt also works great on my back. I had a back injury from my years in the Army and during certain times of the month, the pain is unbearable. I use the belt then and it relieves the majority of the pain.

  40. James costilo on September 3rd, 2011

    I will take an ab belt that you don’t want! I will pay shipping through paypal for it! For real. I run and do a little weights but don’t like the way I feel from doing sit ups and figure this could be a good alternative to back and neck pain. Come t on my post and I will be glad to send an email address to figure a way to pay for and mail it. Thanks.

  41. emily on September 11th, 2011

    i think its funny how all the people that are talking shit can’t even spell right!!! you people need to get off your ass and workout!!! you can’t just use the belt and think your going to get a 6 pack. come on people!!! if your not happy with yourself then do something about it, don’t sit here and waste your time when you could be working out!!!

  42. Ashley on September 13th, 2011

    I am looking to get one of the ab belts, not really sure which to get. I have read all the comments and some are really interesting. I dont have very much stomach to loose just want to see more abs. Needs a little more insight, but it seems as though more people are pleased with the flex belt than any. So I am gonna try that one and let them let you guys know the results!!! Wish me luck!

  43. heather on September 24th, 2011

    Emily- shut the fuck up. Obviously you’re using the belt, or you wouldn’t be on this site.

  44. Jessica Olson on October 11th, 2011

    I ordered the flex belt over a month ago and have been using it fairly religiously and it does work!

  45. Chevisn7 on November 3rd, 2011

    I have both the Flex Belt and the Slendertone Flex, both work about the same. The pads for the slendertone cost about $10. The Flex Belt is built much better has a higher intensity levels etc. The Pads on the Flex Belt last a little longer but if you wipe the pads down with soapy water to remove the oil and sweat and cover them with the original covers them they last a lot longer. Also be sure the belt you buy is rechargeable some of the belts I researched use expensive bateries. Oh for the doubting thomases out there they do work in addition to a normal exercise program.

  46. iwa on November 4th, 2011

    I’ve been using the ab belt for 2 weeks now and I have progressed from intensity:30 to intensity: 80. The belt does work; it strengthens and tones your ab muscle, as well as reduce belly size. However, it does not get rid / burn your BELLY FAT!!! For that, you need to do some exercise where you sweat out (burning fat).

    In all, combination of regular exercise & ab belt work very good in pursuing that sexy abs.

    PS: I used the newest version of the flex belt + (10 programs, up to 150 intensity level, rechargeable batteries). Additional replacement gel pads are sold everywhere (try ebay).

  47. November 6th, 2011 on November 6th, 2011

    I got the Slendertone Flex in a week ago. I have spinal desinegration in C-3-4-5 and L-3-4-5. There is no way I can do crunches.
    But have to say, using the slendertone I can feel the muscle contractions in my abdomen. You have to pay attention to where you place the belt on you.
    If you feel the contractions on the sides and not the middle, then you need to adjust the belt on you. I actually had it placed wrong the first two times but reread the instructions and now can actually see my stomach contracting as the machine works.
    I get out and walk and also use a walk exerciser at the Navy Base where I live. So being able to add this to my exercise gives me promise of toning up my abdominal wall since I can’t do a lot of exercises like normal people.
    Good Luck to everyone that tries it and uses it properly.

  48. trisha on November 14th, 2011

    i agree with jim stop being lazy and do sit ups if u cant there are other ways like the ab rocker u use more muscles doing it ur self no sense haveing tight abs and flabby arms just sittign around the house with a belt on is not going to stop you from being fat diet and proper exercise will and some good ole sit ups

  49. trisha on November 14th, 2011

    and for the person after me thats going to bash me just because i said what i thought oh well the belt works i get that but it still wont stop u from being fat 289 to 125 and no ab belt helped me and heather im not using the belt and im here so what does that say lmao pple getting mad over a comment is sad any way i prefer the other belts as to this one and u dont need battery it just makes you sweat and burn that water weight making it easier for u to burn that actual weight

  50. Rachel on November 25th, 2011

    I have that tummy pooch from not being very active, eating whatever I can, and having 2 kids. A few friends and I are meeting to power walk everyday for an hour and eat right. What sparked my interest for the flex belt was the tightening of skin. My mother walked off 150 pounds in one year but now she has all this loose skin and I don’t want that to happen to me and I just want to lose 30 pounds

  51. jyoti on December 25th, 2011

    guys,,,i’m thinkin of odering the flex belt after i talk to my hubby, i weigh 119 >>i had two kids back to back..but the baby weight with diet and exercise is all gone, but all u see on me is a little pouch around the belly button area, i cant get it to go away, i think two pregnancies i lost the muscle tone, working out still to tone other muscles though but i cant afford to loose more weight, coz everytime i go to gym burn calories to cardio and such i feel food but i’m loosing it where i dont want to loose it..anyway any suggesstion if i should try this,, and gel pads how much r they??

  52. D on January 2nd, 2012

    All these electric muscle stimulators are a scam. Scientifically speaking, you burn no calories when you use the device, so you won’t burn any fat. At the same time, the electric impulse only briefly contracts the muscle. Without what is called an “eccentric contraction” to microscopically tear the abs, no strength gains or tightening can occur. Stick to bicycle crunches, captain’s chair, and trying to touch your belly button to your spine. The first two work the rectus abdominus (large muscles in front) and the obliques. The last exercise works the transverse abdominals, a group of muscles that act like a belt or a corset, sucking in the gut.

    There you go, $80 worth of fitness advice free of charge.

    My sources, BTW: Fitness trainer for 5 years, ASCM licensed. I am also in medical school.

  53. sunsun00@hotmail.co.uk on January 10th, 2012

    you can have a look on ebay for Gel pad.

  54. Angie on January 25th, 2012

    I’m using the slendertone belt & love it. It really does work help in your ab workout. What people forget is that you can not use the product as a means to lose weight. You need additional excessive & a healthy meal plan!!!!!

  55. Amanda Smith on January 26th, 2012

    I just ordered the Flex Belt. I hope that it helps. Based on the information people posted I am glad I ordered the Flex Belt and not the Contour Abs like my mom wanted me to. The Flex Belt seems to have much better reviews. I will let yall know how it goes for me.

  56. MommaFat on January 28th, 2012

    I was watching the commercial for the contour ab belt on tv and decided to look up the info on it before ordering. I have wanted to get one for a while and just had a hard time making the decision on which one. That is alot of money to spend for something to not work. Im glad I found this site though and have heard all these opinions. It sounds like the Flex belt out weighs the competition hands down. I was always just afraid that they didnt really work. I appreciate the helpful info from everyone. I have a bad back and hope this is the solution for my stomach now.

  57. LaToya on January 28th, 2012

    I ordered the contour ab belt before I found this site. I do exercise everyday and just started eating right. When I do get it and start using it, I will also let ya’ll know how it goes for me. I hope I made the right choice.

  58. Chema on January 31st, 2012

    I have used the belt a couple times but the gel and everything is just not working I have been using for 4 yrs and it’s not working for me.

  59. AF615 on February 16th, 2012

    If you want to loose weight I agree this isn’t going to be the end all but simply a tool to help but, if you are trying to get back muscle tone due to injury this is a tried and true method. @D the med school student and personal trainer – you are so wrong – muscle stimulation is used all the time in physical therapy – to strengthen weakeend muscles. I don’t know what school you are going to but – you need to open those books.

  60. Oscar on February 22nd, 2012

    I was looking into buying the contour ab, but after all these reviews it seems that the flex belt is a better belt. I am a T- 8 paraplegic and I just want to strengthen my abs to get better balance. I saw that the belts are used for pain relief in the back. I have constant back pain. Right now I am using the shake – weight to strengthen my arms and it seems to be working well. I have come up with some exercises using this weight (dumbbell) to work my abs, but I need some help to get them to contract. Hopefully by combining the belt with the weight I will get better results and strengthen my core muscles. I’ll let you know how it goes. My wife also wants to add the belt to her exercise routine.

  61. James on February 26th, 2012

    Like everything I read, even the haters. Think Im going to try out the flex belt. I am 240 down to 230 and holding by walking two miles everyday with 20 lb weight vest and lifting weights every other day. Also doing streches and core excersises every day. thanks, have a great day all

  62. Steve Light on March 6th, 2012

    The slendertone product (I purchased the x-70) is very poor quality. I have gone through three controllers. They fail reguarly making the product inoperable. Customer service was no help. Don’t waste your money. It is junk.

  63. Rita on March 10th, 2012

    Trisha – after reading some of the posts prior to yours you should have learned that many people cannot do sit-ups, ab crunches or an ab rocker. I, for one, cannot. I was recently in a very bad accident – hit by a truck. My spine suffered numerous injuries for which I am still in therapy for. I am an athlete and prior to the accident I was in excellent shape. I am a life-long vegetarian, eat very healthy and have perfect health otherwise. Due to my accident most of my body muscles have atrophied, especially my core muscles. I incorporate the Flex Belt into the (limited) exercise regimen my therapist has me on. After only a couple weeks of 3-4 days per week of use I started seeing results. It is a shame that you and Jim take the time to comment on this board with negativity, ignorance and judgment of others. BELT USERS: to prolong the life of your gel pads, after use wipe them down with hand sanitizer. ~Peace and Good Health to All!

  64. dania on March 22nd, 2012

    i just ordered my contour belt, im kind of regreting it now o well hope it works i just spend $200

  65. Jordan on March 31st, 2012

    It should be noted that on Amazon, the Slendertone is getting the best reviews. I have had one for a week. I don’t look any different but my posture and back have improved!

  66. Matt on April 3rd, 2012

    I bought a Slendertone about 4 years ago and used it on and off until it died after about 3 years. I had to replace the gel pads frequently (you get about 15 or so uses out of each set so long as you don’t get body lotion or a lot of lint on them), but it worked well. I went for about a year without it, then decided to buy another one because it really did augment my workout/fitness routine. I received the Slendertone, then discovered the Flex Belt. I returned the unused Slendertone, and I’m really happy with the Flex Belt. It’s a little expensive, but a robust design that I think will outlast the Slendertone. If you know a little about electrical muscle stimulation (look it up on Wikipedia), you know these belts work to strengthen muscles. You will feel the difference. They do not help you loose weight, other than making you more concious of the muscles in your abs. Lay off the beer and pizza and you’ll see the muscle tone too. I sound like a paid spammer, but they really work. And, if more people use them maybe the friggin’ prices will go down!

  67. purofire on April 22nd, 2012

    agree

  68. Joe Stevenson on May 14th, 2012

    @Matt if you use hand sanitizer I found you can make the pads last a lot longer, but you’re right otherwise they wont last long.

    The belts do burn calories by contracting muscles but you’re right a diet or a real run will do more for you. The power is that you can wear an Ab belt while watching tv or working on the computer.

  69. George Grimes on May 28th, 2012

    Where does on place the pads withe these things? I do not have one, but had an ibjury that has done nerve damage that resulted in problems in the lower right and left quadrants of my abdomen. Nerve damage means that stimulation will not, necessarily, mean muscle contraction. Can someone measure and direction from the navel (ie toward hip, etc.), please?? OR are they adjustable?
    I don’t want the hassel if it won’t work on me.

    Thanks for the candor on this site.

    My e-mail is: geogrim1@verizon.net or post here.

  70. rebeca on May 30th, 2012

    I have the Slendertone, and it really works for me. Along with some of the other commentators on this site, I have had some severe (not life threatening) health issues, that have prevented me from exercising. It is a verifiable fact that with continual use of the device, I have lost inches on my waist. For those who are already fit or don’t need toning, the electronic belts do assist in other ways by improving circulation, and digestion. I am working my way up into the 70’s, and will probably also invest in a Flex Belt to continue on to higher levels.

  71. Connie Lynn Eggers on September 10th, 2012

    I got my contour belt about two months ago. I hated my stomach, it sticks out more sideways. As soon as i got my belt I could see results. In the first week I lost two inches. So far I have lost almost six inches . I dont weigh myself, but i have gone down four to five dress sizes, and i am so happy. I plan on using it and never giving up. i want to get into a size eight! A question does anyone know how to get a workout book. I lost mine.?

  72. Connie Eggers on January 10th, 2013

    I have had my Contour belt for 6 months. I love it! Except you can’t find gel pads they said wait till Jan 2013 and still no pads i think i was ripped off. Please answer me and tell me i did not waste all that money!

  73. Khris on February 21st, 2013

    i wonder if the people who says it doesn’t work are fat, like sloppy kind of fat and were expecting it to just melt their fat off without them working out as well..

  74. JD on August 1st, 2013

    does the slendertone gel pads will work on the flex belt?

  75. Jessie Hunniston on July 15th, 2014

    For those of you that are frustrated with you belt and are “just going to throw it away” please don’t…… my address is po box 230 charlestown MD 21914 – Jessie Hunniston. I’ll send the shipping cost to the return address. I would really like to try and cannot afford one at this time, I’ve lost over 50 lbs and now need to tighten everything up, and yes I’ve tried sit-up…….but have yet to have any results. I would be ever-so-grateful……

  76. wes on February 11th, 2015

    I am a 45 year old type one diabetic. In the last year I have been suffering multiple rib, and spinal fractures. I am also a long time practicing martial artist. I bought the Flex Belt when all the fractures prevented me from training, especially ab training. It works. It absolutely will not shed pounds. You have to do that with diet. It will, however, rip your abs. I am up to 150. I do program 8, 9, and 10 just about every day. I have not done a sit up since October, and my abs are ripped better than they were when I was in my twenties. I’ve actually become almost addicted to it. True story.

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