Is TruFlex the Secret to Hollywood Abs?

Noninvasive treatments have become a lot less taboo these days, and in many ways, it may feel like we're entering an era of "tweakmeant" transparency. First-person experiences have hit the algorithmic rounds on TikTok, dermatologists have become influencers in their own right, and celebrities are opening up about the various treatments they've opted into — from body contouring to Botox. So when we got wind of TruFlex, a new muscle-conditioning treatment climbing the ranks among A-listers, we were all ears.

Claiming to give the equivalent results of 54,000 crunches or 10,000 squats in a 15-minute session, TruFlex has found a major fan in former Miss Universe and influencer Olivia Culpo (also an official ambassador), who says it "cinched" her waist. Although not confirmed, there have also been reports and speculation that TruFlex may have played a part in actor Channing Tatum's "Magic Mike" transformation and that he keeps his own device at home.

So what is TruFlex, and why is it getting so much celebrity attention? We're answering these questions and more below.

In layman's terms, TruFlex is an in-office body treatment designed to strengthen, firm, and tone muscles. Small, wired pads are applied to various muscle groups using multidirectional stimulation technology to contract, confuse, and ultimately fatigue muscles. Think of it like a hyper-targeted, super-effective workout that's done lying down and complete within 15 minutes.

Though it may sound simple, the treatment itself is extremely sophisticated. "There are three different treatment modes that simulate five workouts, and it also features a handpiece design that is completely customizable for both larger and smaller areas," Arash Moradzadeh, MD, a Beverly Hills-based and dual board-certified plastic surgeon, tells POPSUGAR. "With this, you can really target specific areas of concern and achieve the precise results you're looking for."

Since the procedure is considered to be no-risk with no prep or downtime, it's easy to see why it's becoming so popular — especially among A-listers. "I think it is particularly appealing for celebrities who may have to be in front of the camera often. The treatment is also super quick, so it's great for anyone with a busy schedule that wants to just stop in and out," Dr. Moradzadeh says.

Unlike its counterpart, Emsculpt, which uses a type of radiofrequency to target fat cells, TruFlex is not a fat-reduction treatment but one that aims to increase muscle mass. The 15-minute session promises to deliver up to 30 percent increase in muscle mass for patients. Currently, TruFlex is FDA approved for use on the abdomen, obliques, glutes, and thighs — with off-label uses on the biceps, triceps, and calves.

Each treatment can use a customized combination of three treatment modes (the modes are designated as prep, tone, and sculpt) to help reach your specific contouring goals. "The prep mode is very similar to Pilates, creating long, lean muscle; the tone mode increases tone and strength; while the sculpt mode causes rapid-sequence contraction, creating definition and increasing metabolism," Dr. Moradzadeh says.

Results can be noticed immediately after a session (and yes, those post-workout endorphins do kick in), but Dr. Moradzadeh tells us that full results are typically seen eight to 12 weeks after a completion of a series of four to six treatments. It's recommended sessions are performed in somewhat rapid succession, with two to three days of rest between.

Just about everyone is a good candidate for TruFlex treatments, but checking with your provider beforehand can help if you happen to have specific concerns. "Since the treatment is so customizable and adjustable, it is great for nearly anyone's fitness level, shape, and goals," Dr. Moradzadeh says, adding that there are also no skin-type restrictions. However, Dr. Moradzadeh recommends avoiding TruFlex during pregnancy and in areas that have any open wounds or hernias.

Another attractive quality of TruFlex is that it's relatively painless during and after treatments. Once the pads are applied to your designated areas, patients can expect to feel a light contracting sensation that will intensify throughout the treatment. While the sensation can feel unusual or odd because your brain isn't controlling the muscle action, this is usually the most intense during your first session. In subsequent sessions, it becomes easier to relax and let your brain wander. In fact, you might burst out into giggles. "The bioelectrical stimulation has a prickly feeling that makes some people ticklish, but I personally can't feel that aspect at all," Dr. Moradzadeh explains.

Treatments are offered in both 15-minute and 45-minute sessions, but both treatments have the same total number of contractions — so it just depends on your own comfort levels. "The 45-minute protocol has more breaks during the workout. I find the 15-minute treatments are so quick and convenient that my patients often choose that," Dr. Moradzadeh says. Afterwards, some may experience a mild soreness (similar to an intense workout), but most do not report any soreness, which Dr. Moradzadeh attributes to the massage-like aspect of the simulated workout program.

Though costs will vary depending on the location and provider you choose, a complete series of sessions typically costs between $3,000 and $4,000 — which usually includes four to six treatments per area. After that, patients can opt to maintain results with single sessions performed on a roughly quarterly basis. So for those looking to finally hit their fitness goals or break past that gym plateau, TruFlex just might be worth the investment.