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Several marketing companies are advertising such claims around the clock, selling millions of machines and drawing the ire of the federal government.
"The marketers say they work, but the equipment can't produce a cut midsection like you see on the models in the commercials," said Josh Dobbs, associate coordinator of the adult fitness program.
"Some types of electronic ab exercise machines can make the muscle stronger," he said. "But if you are 50 pounds overweight, you can't see those toned muscles because they are hidden by layers of fat."
The Federal Trade Commission recently filed false advertising complaints against the marketers of AB Energizer, ABTronic and Fast Abs.
Marketers claim the devices, which sell for $40 to $120 apiece, strengthen and tone areas of the body without any type of physical exertion. One marketer claims using its machine for 10 minutes is like doing 600 sit-ups.
The companies claim the machines use electronic impulses to cause the muscles to contract when applied on the stomach, thighs, back or other problem areas.
"Using electronic devices is extremely tricky," Dobbs said. "Many physical therapists use them, but I am surprised they are on the market for the general public."
Exercise belts have been heavily advertised in infomercials and national cable television networks. Dissatisfied customers have filed hundreds of complaints with the FTC.
Dobbs believes many people who watch television are gullible, allowing marketers to sell millions of the devices in the last several months.
"Many people see things on television and think it is fact," he said. "The marketers have capitalized on the public's interest to boost it. It is all about marketing.
"The technology to create the ab machines is very inexpensive as opposed to the equipment used by physical therapists. All it takes is a couple of electrodes and a watch battery."
(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, contact Dobbs at jdobbs@bsu.eduor (765) 285-3435.)
