Core-tightening gadgets are taking over fitness routines, promising to sculpt and strengthen. Once limited to crunches and planks on the gym floor, core training is now being supercharged by tech designed to optimise results.
Whether you're targeting abs, reducing waist size or improving posture, these gadgets claim to make your workouts more effective - and they’re quickly becoming the go-to for fitness enthusiasts.
What are core-tightening gadgets?
Core-tightening gadgets range from wearable devices to smart equipment that focus on engaging the abdominal muscles, often combining traditional exercises with high-tech features.
Some use electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) to contract the core muscles, mimicking the effect of an intense workout. Others rely on resistance, vibration or microcurrents to activate deeper layers of the core that are often missed during regular workouts.
Designed for convenience, these devices promise to tone and tighten muscles while enhancing your balance and stability. Many are portable and user-friendly, making them ideal for those short on time or unable to hit the gym.
Why they’re effective
The appeal of core-tightening gadgets lies in their ability to enhance the engagement of the muscles, giving you more bang for your buck. Research suggests that EMS, for example, can stimulate up to 90 per cent of muscle fibres, compared to around 50 per cent during a regular workout.
By targeting deeper muscle layers, these devices go beyond superficial aesthetics, helping to improve posture, alleviate back pain and support functional movement.
They’re particularly popular among people who struggle with consistency as they offer a way to work out passively. With some devices, you can even wear them while going about daily tasks, making it easier to stay on track with fitness goals.
Why they’re here to stay
Core-tightening gadgets are more than just a trend. With the growing awareness of the importance of core strength - not just for aesthetics but for overall health and longevity - they represent a shift in how we approach fitness. Modern lifestyles often lead to weakened core muscles due to prolonged sitting, and these devices offer a targeted solution that’s both efficient and innovative.
Whether you’re chasing a six-pack or simply looking to improve your posture and mobility, core-tightening gadgets are making it easier than ever to achieve your goals. As tech continues to advance, it’s safe to say this category of fitness equipment will only get more impressive.
How we tested
The ES Best Shopping team put all of the below core-tightening gadgets to the test, evaluating their performance across different activities. From gym workouts and desk use to leisurely walks, we explored their potential for strengthening the core, and enhancing posture and aesthetics.
Combining functionality with modern innovation, these devices were assessed for effectiveness, convenience and versatility. Whether targeting the deeper muscle layers or upgrading workouts, our team - at fitness levels and with different goals - reviewed the following. Here is what we’ve selected.
Best core-tightening gadgets at a glance
Read on for more.
Slendertone Abs Toning Belt
Best for: easy to use
I tried the Slendertone Abs Toning Belt at my desk and even doing chores around the house, but even though I barely felt it, I could see the difference after a month.
This smart gadget tones all four key abdominal muscles, including the ones crunches miss. Using it 20 to 30 minutes a day, five times a week, felt effortless, and within weeks, I noticed firmer, stronger abs. The OLED display, memory functionality and magnetic connectors make it easy to use, even on busy days. Clinically proven to slim waists and boost core strength, it’s one to invest in for easy toning.
Buy now £99.00, Amazon
Déesse Pro Sculpta
Best for: tightening
The Déesse Pro Sculpta is perfect for tightening the core after weight loss, combining red light therapy, radio frequency and EMS to firm skin and engage muscles. Its dual-ended design allows targeted treatment for areas needing extra support, and six modes let you customise sessions.
Whether it's for toning slackened skin or enhancing core muscle definition, this professional-grade device pairs with a water-based gel for effective results.
Buy now £499.00, lookfantastic
Yeaoul LED Display Smart Abdominal Wheel
Using an ab wheel is a staple in my core workout routine. Which is why I rate this hi-tech offering from Yeaoul, which has been designed to strengthen your core and improve muscle tone.
It features an intelligent LED display for real-time tracking, an automatic rebound mechanism for controlled movement, and a 1.8m safety rebound distance to minimise strain. Its anti-slip, wear-resistant surface and widened wheel design ensures stability, even for beginners.
Buy now £134.75, On Buy
Rodeax Red Light Belt With Timer
The Rodeax Red Light Belt combines red (660nm) and infrared (850nm) light to support targeted muscle recovery and pain relief. Designed for flexibility, it wraps around areas like the waist, shoulders or legs, offering adjustable brightness and timer settings for personalised comfort.
Its lightweight, portable design is perfect for use at home or on the go. The device features hands-free operation with a cordless setup and comes with a remote, power cable and user manual.
Buy now £69.00, Amazon
Confidence Pro Vibration Plate Trainer Exercise Machine
The Confidence vibroplate offers effective use for improving balance and relieving sore muscles, and I found it particularly helpful for knee discomfort. Its easy setup and compact design make it accessible for home use.
The vibrations are designed to provide a low-impact workout, which can be ideal for those looking for an alternative to high-intensity training. Additionally, its quiet operation and sturdy build provide a relatively smooth and comfortable experience when it works as intended.
Buy now £299.99, Amazon
Planos Weighted Smart Hula Hoop Adjustable with Digital Counter
The Weighted Smart Hula Hoop’s intelligent metrics display tracks calories burned, distance and rotations, making it easy to track progress and improve results. Its 360-degree silicone massage feature was comfortable for me, while the double-track design created smooth, quiet rotations.
The hoop was durable, adjustable and suitable for all body types, enhancing fat burning with its integrated gravity hammer. With its combination of effectiveness, comfort and versatility, it’s an excellent tool for strengthening the core.
Buy now £127.14, Amazon
Personal Power Plate Personal Vibration Plate
The Personal Power Plate is a compact, effective exercise tool that incorporates vibration technology for a full-body workout. It offers two vibration speed levels, a 35 Hz frequency, and a 30– or 60-second timer, ideal for improving flexibility, circulation, and calorie burning.
The device comes with upper body straps and workout pads, with a maximum user weight of 120kg. Its portable design includes a soft carrying case, making it perfect for quick, on-the-go core workouts.
Buy now £1399.00, Argos
Mito Light Mitohacker 4.0
Mitohacker 4.0 is designed to deliver advanced red and near-infrared light therapy with six different wavelengths, providing targeted benefits from skin enhancement to deep tissue healing. Its large panel size offers efficient full-body coverage, cutting down therapy time.
The user-friendly touchscreen and mobile app make adjusting settings easy, while the flicker-free, dual-chip LEDs ensure consistent, headache-free sessions. Perfect if you have any scarring or loose skin that you want to improve on your stomach area.
Buy now £1629.00, Mito Light
Verdict
The Slendertone Abs Toning Belt is perfect for those with a busy lifestyle. It's effortless to use, allowing me to wear it while working at my desk or doing chores. After just a few weeks, I noticed my abs becoming firmer and stronger.
The OLED display, memory function and magnetic connectors make it super user-friendly. Clinically proven to slim waists and enhance core strength, it’s an easy and effective way to tone without any hassle. Definitely worth the investment for long-lasting results!
