I DIDN’T KNOW THAT

Question: Do the electrical devices that stimulate muscles work?

Answer: Only to prevent muscle atrophy in patients who are unable to move about on their own, experts agree, and even then they produce only small effects. Without regular exercise, the devices--which cause muscles to contract repeatedly--don’t noticeably increase muscle size or strength, or burn enough calories to be of value. A recent study of one popular device found that stimulating the major muscles of the arms, legs and abdomen for 45 minutes three times a week for two months did not change the subjects’ strength, weight or overall appearance.