🔥 Best Offers of TENS & EMS Units 👉 CLICK HERE!

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for weight loss? Placement of electrode pads

Losing weight has become one of the main objectives of modern society, and it is estimated that this trend will continue to grow in the future, since the number of obese people is exaggerated, and the health benefits of losing weight are enormous.

There are several methods to lose weight, and one of the most popular is muscle electrostimulation, because it allows you to lose a considerable amount of calories during the session, and many more indirectly after finishing it. Today we are going to show you in detail how to use it.

How to use EMS machine to lose weight?

If you are still wondering how an EMS machine can help you lose weight, we are going to give you more reasons to buy one and take advantage of its other benefits.

Benefits

While electrotherapy can help you lose weight, it can also bring you many more benefits like the ones you will learn about below:

  • Improves resistance to fatigue: which will allow you to increase the amount of work you can do during training, which translates into more calories burned and more fat lost.
  • Improves elasticity: training with electrotherapy considerably improves the elasticity of muscle fibers and prevents the loss of elasticity, a fairly common consequence in middle-aged and elderly people.
  • Increases vasodilation: thus increasing blood flow, which allows better oxygenation and assimilation of nutrients in the muscles.
  • Prevents injuries: all these benefits make your muscles healthier and more resistant to injuries of all kinds, which will allow you to stay at your best for longer each year.

What intensity to use?

The ideal intensity to reduce body fat is between 30 Hz and 50 Hz. The exact frequency is going to depend mainly on the size of the muscle we are going to train. For large muscle groups such as the legs and abdomen, a frequency closer to 50 Hz is ideal, while for smaller muscle groups such as the arms and pecs, a frequency closer to 30 Hz is ideal.

However, as mentioned above, by generating muscle hypertrophy, more fat can be burned during the muscle building process. In this case, the frequency to be used should be higher than 50Hz to generate sufficient overload to stimulate muscle growth.

Best EMS machines for body fat reduction

Now that you are clear about the benefits of using muscle electrostimulation therapy to burn fat, we present the best units on the market so you can start changing your habits from the comfort of your home or office.

Compex - TENS & EMS belt with heat therapy for back pain relief with 8 modes and 2 levels
  • No. of Programs: 8 Modes
  • Material: Not specified
  • Power Source: Rechargeable lithium battery
  • Size: L/XL
  • Heat Effect: Yes
  • TENS+EMS Combo
  • With heat therapy
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Portable and small size
  • Improves blood circulation
  • No material specified
  • Battery life not specified
  • Does not include carrying bag
This device is one of the best creations of the COMPEX brand of products. It is an electrotherapy belt ideal for the treatment of ailments and physical conditioning thanks to the application of TENS or EMS electrostimulation, which also includes the thermotherapy function.

The belt does not require connection to operate, which makes it portable and practical, in addition to having a low-profile design for use at any time. It is powered by a lithium battery and has 8 modes of use that cover a wide range of intensities.

Famidoc - EMS machine Belt with 10 training programs and 20 different intensity levels
  • No. of Programs: 10 Programs
  • Material: Breathable neoprene fabric
  • Power Supply: Rechargeable lithium battery
  • Size: One size fits all
  • Heat Effect: No
  • Prevents muscle atrophy
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Portable and small size
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Improves joint mobility
  • No battery life specified
  • No heat therapy
  • No carrying bag included
The FAMIDOC waist band has established itself as one of the most cutting-edge tools for exercise and muscle toning. Its electrode training system, suitable for both women and men, provides you with state-of-the-art technology to improve your physical condition in just a few weeks.

With FDA approval, the FAMIDOC training band will help you increase your health without the harmful side effects of other training methods, without putting unnecessary strain on your muscles and without the need for extreme dieting to achieve spectacular results.

Compex Performance 3.0 - Combo TENS/EMS with 6 programs for improve muscle performance
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes/Programs: 6 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium (8 hours)
  • Electrodes: Not specified
  • Display: LCD
  • Size: Not specified
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • TENS+EMS Combo
  • Long battery life (up to 8 hours)
  • Does not specify intensity levels
  • Measurements and weight not specified
  • 6 programs
The Compex brand offers one of its best electrostimulation machines: the Compex Performance 3.0, a muscle electrostimulator with TENS and EMS operation that facilitates physical recovery after exercise, in the same way that it can stimulate muscle growth through its high frequency electrical impulses, which generate contractions that activate muscle fibers.

It has a powerful rechargeable lithium battery that gives it an autonomy of up to 8 continuous hours, and 6 programs of use that are divided into 1 warm-up program, 3 programs for increasing output, 1 recovery program and 1 TENS program. It is one of the most complete options to improve physical performance and recovery.

DOMAS - EMS abdominal stimulator and toning belt for men and women with 8 modes and 20 levels
  • No. of Programs: 8 Modes
  • Material: Breathable neoprene fabric
  • Power Source: 2 AAA Batteries
  • Size: One size fits all
  • Heat Effect: No
  • Portable and small size
  • Includes user manual
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Prevents muscle atrophy
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Does not specify duration
  • Does not include carrying bag
  • Not for pain relief
The DOMAS abdominal toning belt comes in a version with 8 intense modes of use, and a dual channel muscle stimulation that maximizes fat burning and calorie consumption to increase definition and hardness of the lower back and abdominal muscle groups.

In addition, it has a number of very interesting features, such as a pronounced improvement in blood circulation, and it has even been shown to help with the symptoms of certain digestive problems. All you need to do to get the most out of this wonderful belt is to wear it for 30 minutes a day to start seeing results.

Mothermed - EMS Abdominal Training Belt with 10 Modes and 20 Intensity Levels
  • No. of Programs: 10 Modes
  • Material: Breathable neoprene cloth
  • Power Source: 3 AAA Batteries
  • Size: One size fits all
  • Heat Effect: No
  • Includes user manual
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Portable and small size
  • Prevents muscle atrophy
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Does not specify power supply duration
  • No carrying bag included
  • No heat therapy
The Mothermed brand of training products presents its users with its EMS abdominal toning belt, which has been carefully designed by health and fitness professionals to be the ultimate tool for your workout routine, with which you can achieve the abdominal definition you've always wanted.

The portable abdominal stimulator included in the package is powered by 3 AAA batteries, and its ease of use ensures that anyone can start working on their desired story. Its soft, breathable material makes it an incredibly comfortable garment and it's so versatile that it can be worn at any time and machine washed with the rest of your clothes.

Compex Sport Elite 2.0 - Combo TENS/EMS with 12 electrodes pads and 10 programs
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes/Programs: 10 Programs
  • Intensity: 5 levels
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 12 electrodes
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 5.38" x 3.75" x 1"
  • Includes user manual
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Good quality
  • Includes carrying bag
  • Few intensity levels
  • No weight specified
The Compex Sport Elite 2.0 comes to the market as one of the most versatile and complete options to increase the results of physical conditioning and reduce the negative effects of the same through its TENS stimulation technology which allows an adequate management of the odor, reducing the intensity of the same and increasing the mobility and functionality of the muscles.

It includes 10 electrostimulation modes divided into 3 recovery modes, 2 warm-up modes, 1 TENS massage mode and 4 strength training modes. It also has 5 levels of progressive intensity that will help you improve your strength, endurance and combat various ailments caused by exhaustion.

MarCoolTrip - EMS ABS Stimulator belt with 6 modes and 15 intensity levels with 6 pads
  • Type: EMS
  • Channels: Not specified
  • Modes/Programs: 6 Modes
  • Intensity: 15 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium
  • Electrodes: 6 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: Not specified
  • Portable and small size
  • Good quality
  • Includes user manual
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Prevents muscle atrophy
  • Does not specify measurements and weight
  • Not for pain relief
  • Battery life not specified
MarCool Trip offers its users a versatile abdominal electrostimulation belt, designed specifically for the conditioning of the abdominal area for both men and women. Its design is really simple, and it is so discreet that you can take it wherever you want and use it under your clothes. Its goal is to help you achieve the body of your dreams, so its avant-garde design was created with all the necessary considerations.

Its operation is incredibly simple: all it takes is 30 minutes of daily use, in 15-minute rounds, to start seeing amazing results in as little as 3 months. The belt does not require gel to work, so all you will have to do is apply water to the pads in order to receive the full effects of electrostimulation.

Fat Freezer - EMS Abs stimulator belt with 12 modes and 20 intensity levels rechargeable by USB
  • Type: EMS
  • Channels: Not specified
  • Modes/Programs: 12 Modes
  • Intensity: 20 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Not specified
  • Electrodes: Not specified
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 5" x 4" x 3" - 0.37 lbs
  • Good quality
  • High quality, non-replaceable pads
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Includes user manual
  • Portable and small size
  • Does not specify number of pads
  • Not for pain relief
  • Does not specify battery type or battery life
The Tabbic rechargeable stimulator, from the Fat Freezer Store, is a convenient, safe and portable way to work your abdominal muscles when you don't have the time to visit a gym. It requires no gel pads and is adaptable for both men and women. Its electrical impulses will allow you to lose those inches of waist you desire without superhuman effort.

It works by means of a process called cryolipolysis, which freezes fat cells at an incredible 21 °F (-6°C) favoring a rapid loss of fat layers. The visionary concept of the Fat Freezer belt is the first sample of cryolipolysis therapy available to have in your home, making it an indispensable piece of equipment for losing fat and defining the abdomen.

Compex Performance 2.0 - Combo TENS/EMS muscle stimulation machine with 12 electrodes pads & 6 programs
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes/Programs: 6 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 12 electrodes
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 5.38" x 3.75" x 1"
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Prevents muscle atrophy
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Good quality
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Does not specify intensity levels
  • No heat therapy
  • No weight specified
The Compex brand has one of the best electrostimulation machines available on the market. It is the versatile Compex Performance, which comes in a very complete kit with all the complements you may need to apply an efficient electrostimulation therapy. It includes 12 clip-type electrodes pads, guide wires, battery, 1 carrying bag and 1 user's guide.

It also has 5 programs of use focused on different branches of physical conditioning: endurance, resistance, strength, active recovery and warm-up. Proper use of this device will allow you to reach your maximum performance with very little cardiovascular fatigue, and is highly recommended for fitness enthusiasts who frequently engage in competitions.

eAnjoy - Rechargeable ABS Stimulator belt with abdominal pads 6 modes and 8 intensity levels
  • Type: EMS
  • Channels: Not specified
  • Modes/Programs: 6 Modes
  • Intensity: 8 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium
  • Electrodes: 8 Pads
  • Display: No Display
  • Size: 24" x 8" x 1" - 0.3 lbs
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Prevents muscle atrophy
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Battery life not specified
  • No display included
  • Not for pain relief
EAnjoy's muscle stimulation pads are presented as one of the best options to improve physical condition and complement exercise routines with an effective electrostimulation massage designed to activate muscle fibers, thus burning localized fat and maximizing abdominal definition.

Specifically, the eAnjoy muscle stimulator works with a modern system of magnetic waves that, in addition to activating the muscle, improve circulation in the area. Additionally, its unique technology includes an electro-acupuncture system to increase the benefits on circulation. It is made with high quality polyurethane leather, and includes the best hydrogel available on the market.

Video: How to place electrodes pads to lose weight?

Electrodes for abdomen

Electrodes for abdomen
Electrodes for abdomen

Electrodes for legs

Electrodes for legs
Electrodes for legs
Electrodes for legs
Electrodes for legs

More types of EMS electrostimulators and TENS machines you should know

Can you lose weight with electrotherapy?

The first thing you need to know is how weight loss works. In simple words, what happens is that the body has two forms of "fuel" to obtain energy to do all its processes correctly, these are glucose and fats. By nature, the first thing that is usually burned is glucose, as it is easier for the body to synthesize, but there is a limit of sugars that the body can take as energy each day, as these are necessary for various hormonal and brain functions, so it can not be empty of this.

When we reach that limit, if we do not consume more calories, the body begins to use fats as energy, burning it and thus generating a weight loss. Now, how can you burn so many calories as to start burning fat?

Well the answer is that you can't, it would be the equivalent of running 10 kilometers every day or even more. The key here is to reduce calorie intake, falling into a calorie deficit that forces the body to turn to sugars faster, and then continue with fats.

That said: how can electrotherapy help you lose weight? Simple, EMS or muscle electrostimulation works by contracting the muscles, which in itself will generate caloric consumption, and if done with sufficient intensity, it will also generate muscle damage or hypertrophy, which will subsequently require more passive caloric consumption to stimulate the generation of muscle mass.

However: Is it enough to lose weight with electrotherapy alone? No, caloric consumption will remain low, so electrotherapy must be accompanied by a low calorie diet and a training routine in the gym intense enough to generate the weight loss we want.

Differences between TENS and EMS: Which is better for weight loss?

These two concepts are often confused because they are both part of the modern electrotherapy family. But they are quite different beyond the fact that they both use electricity to stimulate the body. The first is TENS or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation.

For what concerns weight loss, TENS units does not have any kind of benefit, since it is mainly focused on the stimulation of nerve receptors to generate relief from ailments, so its use is more related to rehabilitation processes.

EMS or muscular electrostimulation is different and uses high frequency currents to generate muscle contractions that improve the tone and appearance of the muscles. It is mainly used to strengthen muscles with a mainly aesthetic purpose, as well as to lose weight and define the musculature.

Contraindications in the use of electrodes and electrotherapy

Contraindications for electrode placement

The placement of the electrodes is of utmost importance in electrotherapy, whether TENS or EMS, so here are some things to keep in mind before starting a session:

  • Symmetrical placement: the negative and positive poles of each electrode should be connected symmetrically. That is to say, if we use two pads, we should use one positive and one negative pole in each one, while if we use four, the equivalence should be two positive and two negative.
  • Do not cross the electrodes: you cannot use one electrode in the lower train and another in the upper train and more importantly, never cross the electrodes from the left side to the right side of the body and vice versa, since the current path can negatively affect the patient's health. For this reason it is always recommended to use the electrodes in a localized way.
  • Motor point: at least one of the electrodes, whether positive or negative, must be positioned over the motor point, which is the point where the greatest force is achieved in the muscle in question.
  • Control the intensity: the size of the muscle must be taken into account when choosing the intensity of the current, since the less volume and size the muscle has, the lower the tolerated intensity will be.
  • Be careful with the skin: EMS or TENS should not be used on recently depilated areas since the pores will be open and this could generate skin sensitivity. Do not use on irritated or reddened areas, open wounds or recent scars.

Contraindications for the use of electrostimulation

Being a therapy that applies currents to the body, it cannot be used for all conditions, therefore its use should be avoided in cases where the user suffers from the following conditions:

  • Epilepsy.
  • Cardiac pacemakers.
  • Circulation disorders and problems.
  • Abdominal or inguinal hernias.
  • Neurological disturbances.
  • Tendency to bleed.
  • Skin irritation, burns or wounds.
  • Diseases that affect muscle metabolism, such as diabetes.
  • Metabolic syndrome (diabetes, hypertension and obesity).
  • High uric acid levels.
  • Metabolic disorders and metabolic pathologies.
  • Inflammatory pathologies.

Why trust us?

You can consult all the sources of scientific information used to write this content. This content has been evaluated and verified by our team of specialized editors who freely and independently research, test and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. Occasionally we may receive commissions for purchases made through the links we have selected.