WHAT IS IT?

EMSculpt is a new body-contouring device that uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy to contract muscles 20,000 times over the course of a single 30-minute session. It’s currently approved for use on the abdominals and buttocks.

WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT IT?

It’s the only device that both reduces fat and builds muscle—by 19 percent and 16 percent, respectively, according to independent studies. Results aren’t just aesthetic: Dr. Trevor Born, a Toronto-based cosmetic surgeon, has been using EMSculpt at his practice to help strengthen abdominal muscles in patients with chronic back pain caused by core instability and to treat chronic hamstring inflammation in long-distance runners by improving buttocks strength. “It’s a whole new paradigm of body shaping and contouring,” says Born.

CAN’T I JUST GO TO THE GYM AND DO A BUNCH OF SIT-UPS?

No. The contractions created by the device are supramaximal, meaning it activates muscles with an intensity you wouldn’t achieve on your own. The result: toned abs in less time.

 

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Still loving @trevorbornmd showing off the magic of #Emsculpt and #Emsella on @themarilyndenisshow! ?✨

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WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW?

There is no downtime, although you may feel tired, hungry and sore post-treatment because you’ve just been through a gruelling calorie-blasting experience (without breaking a sweat). Expect to feel stronger during your next workout. (This won’t replace them entirely—sorry!)

WHAT WILL IT COST ME?

Cost varies, but around $1,000 per treatment. Four treatments are required over the span of two weeks. How long results last depends on your lifestyle.

This article originally appeared in the March 2019 issue of ELLE Canada.