Like alison, I've had results in toning ab muscles using an electrical stimulation method. The belt I used was about $60 US, has two batteries. It fits snugly against your skin using velcro to fasten it. It quickly tightened muscles I could not target just with crunches and other exercises that I do. It does tingle enough to hurt if you turn it on too high. You build up a resistance to the shock, so gradually you can increase the power. I wouldn't get one with all the pads and wires - the belt is easier to use.