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9 best pelvic floor trainers, tested by a panel of over 50 women
Plus everything you need to know about Kegel exercises
Tested by Kim HawleyHealth and Fitness Tester
If you’ve ever experienced a leak when laughing, sneezing or during exercise, or you frequently need to rush to the loo, it’s probably a good idea to work on strengthening your pelvic floor.
Kegel exercises aren’t only necessary for new mums or those with specific conditions – evidence shows we should all be prioritising our pelvic health. One in three women will experience urinary incontinence at some point during their lives.
“Training your pelvic floor should be a lifelong commitment as you go through puberty, pregnancy, after birth, during the menopause and beyond,” says Anna Woolley, physiotherapist, Pilates instructor and pelvic heath expert at Core LDN. “Your pelvic floor function is affected by changing hormones throughout your life, so it’s important to be working this set of muscles, just as you would the others in your body.”
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If you’re keen to get started with Kegel exercises, one of the best pelvic floor trainers could be a worthwhile investment. From smart trainers to weighted balls, these petite devices are designed to help strengthen and tone the muscles around the pelvis, vagina and anus.
Our Good Housekeeping Institute team recruited a panel to put a range of popular options to the test. Read on for our full reviews, plus everything you need to know about strengthening these core muscles.
How we test pelvic floor trainers
We enlisted a panel of over 50 testers – all of whom have experienced pelvic floor issues – to trial a range of devices over a six-week period.
We asked them to judge each pelvic floor trainer on a variety of factors, including ease of use, clarity of instructions and design. They also considered the fit and how comfortable it was to use.
After the testing period, panellists reported back on whether they saw any improvements to their pelvic floor strength and if so, how long it took to see results. Feedback was analysed and overall scores were awarded. The results are in...
Pros
- Easy to use and requires minimal effort
- Testers noted clear weekly progression
- Good for vaginal dryness and pelvic floor strengthening
Cons
- Pricey
Score: 83/100
Not your bog-standard pelvic floor trainer, this innovative device combines red and Infrared light, gentle heat and therapeutic vibrations to stimulate collagen regeneration, tone the vaginal tissue and pelvic floor muscles, and help tackle vaginal dryness.
Our testers loved that it requires minimal time or effort. There are three treatment modes, and you can choose from between 6-, 8- and 10-minute options, which you do every other day. After applying a clear, water-based lubricant, you choose your mode, lie back and relax – it really is as simple as that.
Our panel found it a pleasure to use from the start, commenting on the comprehensive instructions and clear progression from week to week. “The treatment has worked wonders for my stress incontinence,” one tester reported, while another told us: “I'm able to hold my urine for longer.”
| Type | Electrical stimulator |
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Pros
- Lightweight, ergonomic design
- Extremely straightforward to use
- 100% waterproof for use in the bath and shower
Cons
- No lubricant included
Score: 82/100
“The device is discreet, easy to use and effective,” said one satisfied tester. To get going, you simply push the power button, insert the larger end into your vagina, choose your desired settings and start squeezing. The LED lights on the remote will reveal the strength of the exercise, so you can see how hard your pelvic floor muscles are working and monitor your progress. It also offers five distinct vibration modes to increase muscular engagement and stimulation.
Testers liked the soft, silicone material, saying it was easy to insert with lubricant and didn’t feel uncomfortable. They also rated the "non-intimidating" palm-sized design and handy pouch for discretion when travelling.
What about performance? “I’ve definitely enjoyed using it while feeling the benefits,” one person told us, adding that they planned to keep using it after the trial period and would happily recommend it to others. Another said: “It’s a great product that's clearly well-made.”
Some testers found the device lost connection with the remote if it was too far away, and they would have appreciated some lubricant with their purchase, but this is an otherwise impressive product.
| Type | Biofeedback device |
|---|
Pros
- Handy instructions and diagrams
- Very easy to use
- Good for travel
Cons
- 15 minutes a day was too long for some testers
Score: 81/100
Don’t fancy faffing about with an app? This simple Kegel ball set includes six pear drop-shaped weights, which you insert into the vagina, clenching the pelvic floor muscles around them and releasing to strengthen. As your pelvic floor gets stronger, you can progress to a heavier weight.
Testers loved the super-soft silicone material and appreciated the simple, no-frills design. It comes with a handy downloadable e-book, with guidance on how to locate the pelvic floor and how to use the weights. “The explanations and visualisations in the booklet are really helpful,” confirmed one panellist.
The brand recommends using the set for 15 minutes a day, which a few testers thought was too long, but building pelvic floor strength requires dedication. Those who did commit said they found it encouraging as they were able to increase the weight used, and many said they noticed improvements in their bladder control.
It comes with a neat travel pouch so you can easily take them with you on the go, and they’re waterproof, so you can do your Kegels in the tub, if you fancy.
| Type | Kegel weighted balls |
|---|
Elitone Pelvic Floor Exerciser
Pros
- Simple to use with clear instructions
- Non-intrusive and discreet
- Effective according to testers
Cons
- Expensive
- Carry case too small for the gel pads
Score: 81/100
This device stands out for its non-invasive design. It’s not worn internally, and you don’t have to do any exercises while it’s in place, allowing you to get on with your day while strengthening your Kegels.
You simply pop a gel pad inside your pants (where you would place a pad), insert the cable and connect to the controller, which has a handy clip so you can attach it to your clothes. There are 35 intensity levels to choose from, and each programme lasts just 20 minutes. Once it’s over, peel off the pads and remove the device – it's as easy as that. “Once you get used to it, you forget it’s on!” noted one tester.
Thanks to helpful instructions, everyone said the device was super easy to get to grips with. Crucially, they also noticed improvements to their bladder control and overall pelvic floor strength. “I certainly felt that my pelvic floor issues have improved,” one panellist told us, while another said: “I would recommend it to friends experiencing incontinence.”
| Type | External neuromuscular device |
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Pros
- Short, snappy workouts
- Portable, travel-friendly design
- Good performance, according to panellists
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
- Only one sachet of lubricant included
Score: 79/100
Created by a Swedish women’s health brand, this rechargeable smart trainer uses biofeedback to determine your pelvic floor strength and takes you through snappy three to five-minute Kegel workouts, depending on your level. It will let you know when to contract and relax the muscles via vibrations and will make the exercises more challenging as it detects you getting stronger. Clever, huh?
A couple of panel members found it a little tricky to insert but once in, it performed well. Testers told us they found it effective and noticed a real difference, saying they'd recommend it to others.
It doesn’t have an accompanying app where you can track your progress or view feedback but when you consider the price, it’s hard to complain. It also comes with a neat pouch so you can keep up with your Kegel exercises when travelling.
| Type | Biofeedback (without app) |
|---|
Elvie Smart Pelvic Floor Trainer
Pros
- Real-time feedback to ensure your technique is right
- Gamified exercises to keep you motivated
- Testers noted benefits in a short space of time
Cons
- Expensive
Score: 74/100
The Elvie trainer is one of the most popular devices on the market, and for good reason. Like the Perifit option above, it links to an app – you start by testing your strength and then build it up over time – and has a range of gamified exercises to keep things interesting.
It uses a patented motion sensor system and provides real-time feedback, letting you know if you’ve got the technique right or it needs some work – particularly helpful if you’re a beginner. You’ll also get a strength score, helping to track your progress over time and keep you motivated.
Elvie received rave reviews from our testers, who said it was super simple to use, with detailed instructions, and the app was user-friendly and highly engaging. “It’s easy to use and I noticed the benefits straightaway,” said one satisfied panel member.
Granted, it’s on the pricey side, but it’s worth it if you’d like some extra support. The trainer is easy to clean, is safe to use with an IUD and comes with a two-year warranty.
Check out our expert's full Elvie Pelvic Floor Trainer review.
| Type | Biofeedback wearable device with app |
|---|
Pros
- Easy to use and keep clean
- Testers saw benefits after a few weeks
- Storage bag included
Cons
- No instructions or diagrams included
Score: 72/100
We’re fans of Lovehoney’s sex toys and the brand’s Kegel toning set proved just as impressive. Our panellists noted that while it took some time and patience, they started to see the benefits after a few weeks. “I noticed a huge improvement in being able to hold my urine and not leak every time I sneeze and laugh,” said one tester.
It includes three weights (50g, 80g and 100g) to work your way through, with a handy loop design to pull the ball out once you’ve completed your squeezes. Testers thought the design was “subtle and attractive” and easy to clean, while they appreciated the accompanying storage bag.
Due to the lack of step-by-step instructions, a few testers found it a little confusing to begin with but got to grips with it before long. Others thought it wasn’t particularly motivating, but that’s down to personal preference.
| Type | Kegel weighted balls |
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Pros
- Good value for money
- Short, snappy workouts
- Made from medical grade silicone
Cons
- No accompanying app
Score: 70/100
Created by a Swedish women’s health brand, this battery-powered smart trainer uses biofeedback to take you through snappy five-minute Kegel workouts, telling you when to contract and relax the muscles. It will also make the exercises more challenging as it detects you getting stronger. Clever, huh?
It doesn’t have an accompanying app where you can track your progress or view feedback. A few testers found this a bit disappointing, but when you consider the price, it’s hard to complain. It’s made from medical grade silicone, comes with a travel pouch and, although the instructions in the box are lacking, there’s a YouTube channel with advice and tips.
If you don’t want to spend over the odds on a fancy smart trainer, this is a great-value alternative.
| Type | Biofeedback (without app) |
|---|
Pros
- Easy to use
- Whisper-quiet device
- Four programmes to suit different needs
Cons
- Programmes too lengthy for some testers
Score: 70/100
This pocket-sized piece of kit uses electrical stimulation to contract and relax your pelvic floor muscles, with a choice of four different programmes to suit your needs, including those for stress incontinence, urge incontinence and a tone option to help maintain strength. These are set for 20 minutes – a few panellists found this a little too lengthy on a daily basis – but you can do your Kegels from the comfort of your sofa or bed.
Our expert thought the instruction were overly complicated for something that's actually fairly simple to set up, while panellists did miss having any feedback to work with and some thought they would struggle to keep their motivation levels up after a while. However, on the plus side, the device is near silent and comes with a discreet travel pouch, so you don’t have to worry about attracting unwanted attention.
Note, it’s not suitable if you’re pregnant, have poor sensation in your pelvic floor, or have a pacemaker.
| Type | Electrical stimulation |
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What is the pelvic floor and why is it important?
“The pelvic floor consists of muscles and connective tissue that form a hammock spanning from the pubic bone to the tailbone,” explains Dr Victoria Scott, diplomate of the American Board of Urology and Flo Health medical expert. “They also extend outwards to both the sitting bones.”
Here, Scott breaks down its main functions.
- Support: The pelvic floor supports the bladder, uterus and rectum, and helps to stabilise the core. When it weakens, pelvic organ prolapse – when one of the organs in the in the pelvis drops down into the vaginal canal or outside the body – can develop. It isn't life threatening and symptoms can be improved with Kegel exercises, but it can be painful and uncomfortable.
- Continence: The pelvic floor is responsible for urinary and faecal continence, controlling the opening and closing of the urethra, vagina and anus. A weak pelvic floor can lead to incontinence.
- Sexual function: The pelvic floor muscles are important for sexual function, as they facilitate arousal, sensation and orgasm. If they are too tense, you may experience painful sexual intercourse.
- Vaginal delivery: When a baby is delivered vaginally, the pelvic floor muscles need to be strong enough to accommodate the descent of the baby from the uterus and through the vagina.
Are pelvic floor trainers worth it?
“Pelvic floor trainers are very useful tools to facilitate and enhance your Kegel contractions,” says Woolley.
They can be handy if you’re likely to forget to do your Kegel exercises regularly or would like some guidance as you go. Some of the devices on our list even have gamified elements via an app – like the Elvie trainer – making the experience feel more enjoyable and less like a chore.
Scott offers an important reminder. “It’s always a good idea to see a gynaecologist or urogynaecologist for evaluation before using a pelvic floor trainer, especially if you have an IUD or are pregnant,” she advises.
And there's no quick fix – strengthening the pelvic floor requires patience and consistency. If you stick to a routine, you should see improvements after a few months, according to the NHS.
How to choose the right pelvic floor trainer
There are a range of pelvic-floor-strengthening products on the market, ranging from basic models to high-tech designs, all at varying price points. Here are some of the main types.
Electrical stimulators: These devices work in a similar way to TENS machines. You insert a probe into your vagina and the device sends gentle electrical impulses into the muscles to initiate a contraction. You use this to consciously engage your muscles at the same time. “These are generally advised for people with lower strength in their pelvic floors,” says Woolley, adding that they’re a great place to start. “Once you’re a bit stronger, you can progress to other types.”
Biofeedback devices: These also use a probe that you place inside your vagina, which is connected to a handheld device or your phone. They don’t provide an impulse or stimulate the muscles, but they detect and provide visual feedback as you perform exercises, with personal recommendations to help improve strength, endurance and coordination.
Kegel weights: These weighted balls are inserted into the vagina. They come in a variety of sizes and weights, and you can progress to a heavier weight as you gradually strengthen your pelvic muscles. “These are for when you’re a little bit stronger and have a good brain-nerve-pelvic floor connection,” explains Woolley.
How often should you use a pelvic floor trainer?
How often you should use a pelvic floor trainer and how long for depends on your individual needs and recommendations from medical professionals.
“I usually recommend using them between three and five times a week if you’re trying to build strength,” advises Woolley. “This isn’t right for everyone though; it may be that you need to build up more slowly.”
She adds that, while using a pelvic floor trainer is effective, you should also incorporate other pelvic floor exercises into your routine, such as traditional Kegel exercises (where you tighten and hold the pelvic floor muscles for 10 short and 10 long contractions two to three times a day) or Pilates.
Scott adds that it’s important to follow your device's instructions carefully to prevent pain from overworking your muscles and to clean it properly after each use.
Finally, you should seek professional help if you don’t see improvements and are concerned about pelvic floor dysfunction. “Many women are embarrassed to ask questions or seek evaluation for issues like urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse, but these are very common problems we can help fix,” says Scott.
The verdict: Do pelvic floor trainers really work?
Put simply, yes. Our testers noted improvements to their pelvic floor strength after using the devices consistently for six weeks.
The Issiviva x Joylux device came out on top in our testing. It proved a cinch to use and many testers noticed clear progression over the trial period.
If you're after some Kegel balls, this Lovehoney Health Silicone Kegel Toning Set is a good shout for less than £50, and for those who struggle with motivation, the Elvie Pelvic Floor Trainer, which comes with gamified exercises to keep things interesting, is a good pick.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
We test thousands of products every year to find the very best on the market, from the best menopause skincare to the best cooling bedding. We put each and every product through rigorous testing, both in real-world and lab conditions, to provide unbiased reviews you can trust.
Kim Hawley is our senior sleep and wellness tester, responsible for overseeing testing for a range of women's health products, including the best period pain relief devices and pelvic floor trainers. She has over 30 years' experience in the fitness industry, with a level 4 personal training qualification and a nutrition qualification. She also spent more than 20 years working in leading health clubs across the UK.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Kim Hawley is our health and fitness product tester. Her career in fitness has spanned over 30 years. Prior to joining the Good Housekeeping Institute, she worked as a personal trainer, writer and fitness instructor for some of London’s most prestigious health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Passionate about women’s health and fitness, especially in pre/post menopause, she is also a Level 4 PT and holds a professional nutritional qualification. Kim is responsible for rigorously testing everything from cross trainers to smart watches.
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