But the manufacturers are in the clear because they don't make medical claims
Bad news for weight-watchers dreaming of washboard abdomens without going through the tortuous exercise regime of sit-ups - electronic exercise belts don't work, says the Consumer Council.
But there is little authorities can do about the advertised benefits of the belts, as the manufacturers are not making claims about any medical benefits.
Manufacturers claim in their advertisements that wearing the belt on the belly for about half an hour each day will yield similar results to doing hundreds of sit-ups.
But the Department of Health could not find sufficient evidence to support those claims. Medical experts said the involuntary contracting and relaxing of stomach muscles caused by the belt did not help build or strengthen muscles.
In fact, they said the stomach belts were not suitable for those diagnosed with or suspected of having epilepsy and heart problems. They were also unsuitable for pregnant women. Misuse of the belts can also result in burns, and skin abrasions and irritations.