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Overview
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Anyone that has watched TV for any amount of time (especially the shopping channels) WILL have seen countless adverts for EMS (electronic muscle stimulation) body toners, even some for tightening up face muscles (electro-face lift). The Rio Slim Gym works on the same principle as all of them but is definitely a good quality unit.
The pack contains:
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The Slim Gym EMS Unit
The pads (10 in total) - work in pairs therefore 5 pairs
Elasticated straps
Tube of conducting gel
**All of this is contained in a neat carry case for transport wherever you decide to 'exercise'.
SAFETY - AS WITH ALL EMS UNITS
Do not use
On recent injuries
On Varicose veins
If you suffer from multiple sclerosis
Over new Scars
On enlarged moles
If
you're Diabetic
If you're Epileptic
If you are Pregnant.
If you suffer from a heart problem
Consult your Doctor before embarking on any health/fitness routine
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Setup
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Once the wires have been connected to the EMS unit, the gel is applied to the pads and the pads applied (in pairs) to the specific body parts. The gel helps increase the conductivity, however water also works: any aqueous gel/substance). The pads are secured in place with the elastic straps. Once the pads have been attached, the wires can be connected from the unit to the pads and the EMS unit itself can be plugged in and turned on.
You don't have to use all 10 pads every time you use this product. You may not want to sit there having more wires connected to you than your VCR. But make sure all pads are paired up. There should not be an odd number of pads connected or the circuit is not intact and that muscle group will not be worked.
Every pair of pads are designated a control so be aware which set have gone where. Also be sure (very important for first time users) that the settings are all on low when you switch on the unit or you may (WILL) have a shock, literally. Do not rush to try the powerful settings, you muscles must get used to this type of exercise.
The main panel allows you to alter the frequency (pulses - contractions per minute) and intensity (strength of contraction) of your workout.
In most manuals, you will be advised to start off on 15-20mins at a time and gradually build up to a maximum of maybe an hour once your body is used to it. Also you will be able to increase the intensity of your workout.
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Operation
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EMS is literally what it says…
Electronic muscle stimulation. Where our brains send electro-stimuli to our muscles to do things, the EMS unit does just that in the simplest of ways.
It works on one function: contract and relax. All you need for basic exercises. Although you do not have the benefit of working all the surrounding muscles.
I.e. whereas with a simple dumbbell curl we try and utilise the bicep. The triceps and shoulders, including the lats can be used. As the EMS Toners work on groups, the bicep will be stimulated and therefore contract and relax accordingly giving one basic 'curl' move. This is fine when you are working a small group of muscles and a simple exercise: such as sit-ups or crunches, which are not only one of the most tedious, but the main contributor to rock hard abs and obliques.
NB// to gain a six pack I recommend some cardio work (running, cycling, rowing, football etc.) and maybe pay attention to your current diet. The Toner will give you strong define abs, but if you still have a beer belly, those abs will be hidden away.
Use
I recommend doing a light warm up and stretch of the muscles and also a light cool down stretch after use to make sure the muscles don't become tight. if you are used to a high setting, why not start it on low for a few minutes to warm up. This is also a good stress reliever and warm down workout.
Try intervals of high and low and this will stop the muscles from getting used to the repetitive work. It also allows them some recovery time while working out.
Do not place directly over heart. it is painfull as the heart is being given another set of more important instructions, the ones keeping you alive.
The unit itself is very easy to use with very few knobs/dials (as stated above). The pads are also very easy to clean by just wiping them off with a warm, wet cloth. Everyone is the same and no matter how strong you are, the contractions are weird and may feel uncomfortable at first but you get used to it. This tingling is heightened around hairy areas so some guys will find the arms, legs and belly more uncomfortable, until you get used to it.
I don't recommend using it on lower forearms and shins as the layers of fine muscles controlling the fingers and toes will be stimulated which is uncomfortable and it will make your fingers and toes clench. Best used on large muscle groups: Abs, chest, back, upper arms, buttocks, thighs and calves.
The pads can be replaced but can depend on the size of the pads. Some people allow you to purchase pairs of pads or the full set of pads. I have never needed to replace the pads on any of my units but I estimate the cost to be approx a third if not half the price of the unit. For these units the pads are usually just moulded plastic and so are very durable. Also boditek pads are felt and so the cloth does not wear away (a product which I have also reviewed).
There is no specific brand and so you can even find it in argos. I've seen some gel sold on ebay for even less (1 pound for 100ml, postage varies). More impressively GBP 3.50 for 2 large 500ml tubs.
Verdict
====== I would definitely recommend this product to people. If you work up to it and use it daily or every other day for a couple of weeks you should see and feel the difference.
Use it to supplement a workout routine or at least supplement this with some other light form of exercise to get the cardio workout. The effects will obviously last if you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
I AM HAPPY TO UPDATE IF THERE IS SOMETHING MISSING :o)
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22.01.2006 06:46
Re-rated! Sue.
17.01.2006 12:17
How much does it cost? Do the pads need replacing or are they permanent? How long does the gel last and how much does a replacement cost?
17.01.2006 09:34
good review. x