Showing posts with label FLEX belt. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FLEX belt. Show all posts

Saturday, July 18, 2015

Pseudoscience in Fitness - FLEX Belt



I know what you’re thinking, “goodbye hard work, hello flex belt”. This belt almost seems too good to be true, right? Well that’s because it is. Let’s take a look at why the flex belt is lacking everything that is science.
The flex belt in theory is supposed to stimulate you’re abdominal region periodically causing the wearer to flex and become the next Arnold Schwarzenegger in a matter of weeks. This product is a result of Electric Muscle Stimulation (EMS) which is just a scientific term used to described shocking the body mildly enough to stimulate muscles to contract. EMS is primarily used by chiropractors or physical therapists helping patients with an injury. I have experienced EMS first hand during a treatment for my back and I must say I did not leave there with back muscles the size of a silverback gorilla.
Another factor to consider when looking at this product is the actors in the commercial (keyword being “actors”). By hiring actors with already established physiques it gives the illusion that it is a result of the belt. If you asked these actors what it takes to get stronger and look better I can guarantee the word flex belt will not come out of their mouths.
Unlike in science where other explanations are considered, the flex belt does not mention other external factors. If people do truly believe in this belt because they have had a positive result, is it safe to say it is all because of the belt? Nutrition and weight training are the basis of good health and weight loss. Do these people track their calories to know whether they are in a caloric deficit or surplus? Have these people also started going to the gym regularly once they started wearing the belt. It is safe to say that the flex belt has absolutely no scientific basis for it’s results and that EMS will not cause substantial muscular development.