Industry Insights
May 22, 2025

What is Emsculpt? Body Contouring Explained

What is Emsculpt? Body Contouring Explained

Clients today are more informed than ever, often coming to you with questions about specific treatments they've researched, like Emsculpt. To best serve them and position your wellness business as a knowledgeable leader, a solid understanding of these technologies is essential. So, what is Emsculpt and why is it generating so much discussion? It’s a body contouring procedure designed to build muscle and burn fat through intense electromagnetic stimulation, offering a non-invasive alternative to surgical options. This piece will walk you through everything from the underlying science to patient suitability and expected results, equipping you with the details to confidently address client inquiries and make strategic business decisions.

Key Takeaways

  • Focus on Dual Action: Clearly explain to clients that Emsculpt uses HIFEM technology for intense muscle contractions that build muscle and reduce fat in treated areas, providing a unique method for body sculpting.
  • Guide Client Suitability: Help clients determine if Emsculpt aligns with their objectives (toning, not significant weight loss) and health profile by reviewing goals and medical history, including contraindications like metal implants.
  • Clarify Treatment Expectations: Inform clients that Emsculpt sessions are brief (about 30 minutes) with minimal recovery, but a series is typically required for best results, and long-term upkeep involves healthy habits and possible maintenance treatments.

What is Emsculpt and How Does It Work?

Infographic outlining 5 steps to using Emsculpt for body contouring.

If you're looking into advanced body contouring options for your clients, Emsculpt is definitely a technology worth understanding. It’s a non-invasive treatment that uses High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to trigger powerful muscle contractions—much stronger than what someone could achieve with a regular workout. These are often called supramaximal contractions, and they're the secret sauce behind Emsculpt's effectiveness. The FDA has given its nod to Emsculpt for several uses, including improving abdominal tone, strengthening the muscles in both the abdomen and buttocks, and generally firming up these areas. For businesses like medical spas or even high-end personal training studios, offering or understanding such treatments can be a real plus.

A typical Emsculpt session is pretty quick, usually around 30 minutes. During this time, the device can make the targeted muscles contract about 20,000 times. This intense activity does two main things: it helps build new muscle fibers and makes existing ones stronger, leading to better muscle definition. At the same time, this process signals fat cells in the area to break down. Over the next few weeks, the body naturally processes and gets rid of these affected fat cells. This means clients can see improvements in both muscle tone and fat reduction, which is a big draw for anyone wanting to refine their shape without going under the knife.

How HIFEM Technology Sculpts Your Body

So, what’s the magic behind HIFEM technology? It’s all about creating incredibly deep and powerful muscle stimulation. The electromagnetic energy passes through the skin and fat to directly target muscle tissue, forcing those supramaximal contractions I mentioned. To give you an idea of the intensity, a 30-minute session is often likened to doing around 20,000 crunches or squats. While that sounds like a serious workout, the treatment itself isn't typically painful. Most people just feel strong muscle contractions, similar to what you'd experience during a very challenging exercise session. Clinical studies have shown that Emsculpt can result in an average muscle mass increase of about 19% and a fat reduction of around 15% in the treated spot.

Which Areas Can Emsculpt Treat?

You’re probably wondering which parts of the body are best suited for Emsculpt. The FDA has cleared this technology for several key areas where people often want to see more definition. Currently, Emsculpt is widely used on the abdomen, helping to achieve a more sculpted and firm midsection. It’s also a popular choice for the buttocks, offering a non-surgical way to lift and firm. Beyond these, Emsculpt can also treat the thighs and arms, helping to build muscle and reduce unwanted fat in these spots too. While these are the main FDA-cleared treatment zones, the technology is always advancing, and there's ongoing research into expanding its use to other areas, such as the upper arms or inner thighs.

What Are the Benefits of Emsculpt?

Emsculpt brings some really exciting advantages to the table for clients aiming to refine their physique without resorting to surgery. It’s more than just improving appearance; it’s about helping people feel stronger and more self-assured. For businesses like yours, whether you run a medical spa or a bustling health club, clearly understanding these benefits is key to showing your clients the true value of this technology. Offering Emsculpt can be a fantastic way to expand your services and cater to the growing demand for effective, non-invasive body contouring solutions.

Build Muscle and Reduce Fat

Emsculpt's standout feature is its dual action: it builds muscle and reduces fat simultaneously. In just one 30-minute session, the device induces around 20,000 powerful muscle contractions—far more than a typical workout. These intense contractions force muscle tissue to adapt, growing stronger and larger. At the same time, this activity prompts fat cells to break down and release fatty acids, which the body naturally eliminates. This allows clients to achieve a more sculpted appearance by building muscle and reducing fat in the targeted area, all within the same treatment.

A Non-Invasive and Quick Treatment

A major draw for Emsculpt is that it's completely non-invasive, sidestepping the concerns many have about surgery or lengthy downtime. There are no needles or anesthesia involved. Clients can typically resume their daily activities right after a session, making it incredibly convenient for busy lifestyles. Most only experience mild muscle soreness, similar to post-workout fatigue. While generally safe, it's key to note that individuals with metal implants (like pacemakers) or those who are pregnant should avoid Emsculpt. This makes it an efficient, walk-in, walk-out solution for body contouring.

Achieve Better Body Contours and Tone

Clients seeking a more defined and toned physique will appreciate Emsculpt's results. Clinical studies show impressive outcomes: an average 19% fat reduction and a 16% increase in muscle mass after four treatments. Many start to feel a difference—like increased firmness—a day or two after their first session. The most significant improvements typically appear two to four weeks after the final treatment. This dual approach to fat reduction and muscle building helps create smoother body lines and more pronounced definition, effectively enhancing natural contours.

What to Expect from an Emsculpt Treatment

When clients explore body contouring options at your medical spa or consult with you as their personal trainer, they're looking for transformative results and a clear understanding of the process. Emsculpt, with its innovative muscle-building and fat-reducing capabilities, often piques interest. However, moving from curiosity to commitment requires a transparent discussion about what the treatment truly entails. This is where setting accurate expectations becomes paramount for both client satisfaction and your business's reputation. A well-informed client is more likely to be a happy client, and understanding the Emsculpt journey from start to finish is the first step.

This involves more than just explaining the science; it's about painting a realistic picture of the time commitment, the physical sensations during the procedure, and what life looks like immediately after. For instance, knowing that sessions are quick but require a series for optimal results helps clients plan accordingly. Similarly, understanding that the muscle contractions are intense but manageable, and that recovery is minimal, can alleviate anxieties. As a provider, being equipped with this detailed knowledge allows you to address concerns proactively and tailor pre-treatment consultations effectively. This section will delve into these crucial aspects, providing a comprehensive overview of what to expect during an Emsculpt treatment, from the number and length of sessions to the post-treatment experience and care. Our goal is to empower you with the information needed to guide your clients confidently.

How Long Are Sessions and How Many Will You Need?

Each Emsculpt session is quite efficient, typically lasting about 30 minutes. This makes it a convenient option for clients who have busy schedules. As for the number of sessions, a common treatment plan usually includes four sessions, scheduled two to three days apart over a two-week period.

However, the exact number can vary depending on individual goals, the specific area being treated, and your provider's recommendation. Some clients might achieve their desired results with the standard four sessions, while others might benefit from additional treatments. It’s always best to have a consultation to create a personalized plan that aligns with specific body contouring objectives. This initial discussion will help determine the optimal number of sessions to achieve the best possible outcome.

Your Experience: During and After Treatment

During an Emsculpt session, clients will feel intense muscle contractions in the targeted area. Many describe the sensation as unusual or like a very powerful workout, but without any actual physical exertion or sweating. You might feel a strong pulling or tugging as the muscles contract. While it's intense, the treatment isn't generally considered painful, and the intensity level can be adjusted by the practitioner to ensure comfort.

Immediately after the session, it’s common to feel some muscle fatigue or soreness, similar to how you’d feel after a challenging gym workout. This is a normal response as your muscles have been working hard. There’s no need for downtime, so clients can typically return to their daily activities right away.

Recovering and Caring for Yourself After Treatment

One of the great things about Emsculpt is that there's virtually no recovery time needed. Clients can get back to their routine immediately after a session. However, it's normal to experience some mild and temporary side effects. These can include redness, slight swelling, or even a bit of bruising at the treatment site, though these usually subside within a few days.

While there isn't any prescribed downtime, listening to your body is always a good idea. If there's some muscle soreness, gentle stretching and staying hydrated can help. Allowing your body a little rest, just as you would after an intense workout, can also be beneficial. Overall, the recovery is straightforward, allowing clients to enjoy the benefits without significant interruption to their lives.

Is Emsculpt a Good Fit for You?

Emsculpt is an exciting technology that offers impressive body contouring results, but like any treatment, it's not a universal solution. Understanding who makes an ideal candidate is key to setting realistic expectations for your clients and ensuring they achieve the best possible outcomes. Several factors, from current fitness levels to overall health, play a role in determining if Emsculpt is the right choice. For businesses like medical spas or health clubs, guiding clients through this decision process is an important part of the service you provide.

Thinking about adding Emsculpt to your offerings? It’s helpful to know who will benefit most. This way, you can confidently advise clients and integrate this technology effectively into your weight management programs or personal training services. This understanding allows you to tailor your consultations and help clients see if Emsculpt aligns with their individual body goals and health profiles. Let's look at some of the main considerations to help you determine if this treatment is a good match for your clientele.

Does Your Current Fitness Level Matter?

One of the great things about Emsculpt is its versatility. Unlike some body contouring treatments that are best suited for individuals already close to their ideal physique, "Emsculpt can affect a wider demographic of patients than popular treatments like cool-sculpting." This means it can be a fantastic option for a broader range of your clients, whether they're fitness enthusiasts looking to enhance specific muscle groups or individuals just starting their body transformation journey.

Many find that "once you start undergoing Emsculpt treatments, you'll really start to feel and connect with your muscles, leaving you feeling highly motivated." This can be a powerful catalyst for adopting or maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Of course, "the longer you maintain and stay in shape, the better your results are going to be." So, while Emsculpt works well across various fitness levels, encouraging ongoing activity will always complement the treatment and help your clients achieve lasting satisfaction.

Health Checks: When to Avoid Emsculpt

Safety first, always! While "Emsculpt is generally considered safe," there are specific health conditions and circumstances where it's not recommended. It’s crucial for providers to conduct thorough consultations to screen for any contraindications. For instance, Emsculpt "shouldn't be used by people with metal implants (like pacemakers) or during pregnancy." This also includes any metal IUDs, so a detailed medical history is essential.

Other conditions, like certain heart conditions or a history of seizures, might also make Emsculpt unsuitable. Always encourage clients to disclose their full medical history. As a provider, ensuring your clients are well-informed and suitable candidates is paramount before they begin any treatment course. This careful screening process builds trust and ensures client well-being, forming a strong foundation for their experience at your facility.

BMI Guidelines for the Best Outcome

While Emsculpt is effective for muscle toning and some fat reduction, it's not primarily a weight-loss treatment. For optimal results, "Emsculpt is typically for people with a BMI less than 30." This guideline helps manage expectations, as individuals with a higher BMI might see less visible changes in muscle definition initially, though they will still experience muscle strengthening and the associated benefits.

It's important to remember that BMI is just one factor. Body composition, fat distribution, and individual goals also play significant roles. A client with a BMI slightly over 30 but with localized fat and a desire for muscle toning in a specific area might still be a good candidate. A personalized consultation, perhaps incorporating insights from a 3D body scanner, can help determine suitability and set achievable goals for your clients, ensuring they understand what Emsculpt can realistically deliver for them.

What Results Can You Expect from Emsculpt?

When your clients are considering Emsculpt, they'll naturally want to know what kind of changes they can anticipate. While everyone's body responds a bit differently, Emsculpt offers a really promising way to boost muscle tone and trim down fat in specific spots. A great way to highlight these transformations is by using precision tools, like 3D body scanners. This technology can vividly show clients their progress, helping them see and truly appreciate the journey they're on.

When Will You See a Difference?

It’s good to set clear expectations with clients: the most impressive Emsculpt results take a little time to fully appear. Some people might feel a change sooner, but typically, visible improvements begin to show after they’ve had a couple of treatments. For those really noticeable, optimal outcomes, a series of four treatments is generally the sweet spot. These sessions are usually scheduled about two to three days apart, or sometimes up to two weeks, giving the body the time it needs to respond effectively. Think of it as a highly focused training program for their muscles, where consistency and smart scheduling lead to the desired body contouring effects.

How Does Emsculpt Compare to Traditional Exercise?

Emsculpt really takes muscle building to another level. Imagine this: a single 30-minute session can trigger around 20,000 powerful muscle contractions. That’s an intensity that’s pretty much impossible for anyone to achieve through regular workouts at the gym, no matter how dedicated they are. This extreme muscle activity signals the muscle tissue to adapt by remodeling its internal structure. At the same time, this intense process kicks off a metabolic reaction where fat cells in the treated area break down and release fatty acids. The body then naturally processes and gets rid of these fatty acids. This dual action of muscle strengthening and fat reduction is what makes Emsculpt such a distinct body sculpting choice for your clients.

What Do Clinical Studies Show?

The effectiveness of Emsculpt isn't just anecdotal; the clinical studies back it up with solid numbers. On average, clients who complete a series of four Emsculpt treatments have seen about a 19% reduction in subcutaneous fat in the area that was treated. That’s a significant change! Alongside this fat reduction, these studies also show an average increase of around 16% in muscle mass. Clients often start to notice these results becoming more apparent just a day or two after a session. The peak effects—that sculpted, toned look they’re working towards—are usually most visible two to four weeks after their final treatment in the series. This data gives you a strong foundation for discussing expected client outcomes and setting realistic goals.

Understanding Emsculpt Safety and Side Effects

When you're thinking about bringing a new treatment like Emsculpt into your wellness center, gym, or personal training practice, getting a clear picture of its safety and any potential side effects is a top priority. You want to offer services that not only deliver results but also ensure your clients' well-being. The great news is that Emsculpt is generally well-received, but as with any effective body contouring technology, it’s smart to be informed. This way, you can guide your clients confidently and help them have the best possible experience. Let's go over what you and your clients should be aware of.

Common Side Effects: What to Know

One of the big pluses of Emsculpt is that it’s a non-invasive treatment, which means no surgery or needles are involved. Most clients find that any side effects are quite mild and usually disappear within a few days. Think of it like the feeling after a particularly effective workout. It’s not uncommon for clients to notice a bit of redness, some minor swelling, or even slight bruising in the area that was treated – much like a bump might leave a temporary mark. Applying an ice pack can often help ease these brief reactions.

Your clients might also mention some muscle soreness in the treated spots. This is perfectly normal, especially since the technology works by causing strong muscle contractions. This type of soreness can typically be managed with standard over-the-counter pain relievers and some gentle stretching, similar to how they’d care for themselves after a tough session at the gym.

Is Emsculpt Safe in the Long Run?

For the majority of individuals, Emsculpt is considered a safe way to approach body contouring. It has received FDA approval for its ability to tone muscles and help reduce fat, which speaks to its reviewed safety and effectiveness. The treatment uses focused magnetic energy, and a typical series involves about four sessions spread over a couple of weeks. This established protocol has been widely adopted.

However, it's important to remember that "safe for most" doesn't mean it's the right choice for absolutely everyone. Emsculpt isn't recommended for individuals with certain conditions. For example, people with metal implants, like pacemakers or artificial joints located near the intended treatment zone, should not undergo this procedure. It's also not suitable for clients who are pregnant. Being fully aware of these contraindications is a key part of responsible client assessment.

Key Precautions Before Starting Emsculpt

Before any client starts with Emsculpt, having a detailed consultation is a must. This conversation allows you, or a qualified professional at your facility, to go over their health history and decide together if Emsculpt is a suitable option for them. There are specific groups of people who should avoid this treatment to ensure their safety. This includes women who are pregnant or currently breastfeeding.

Individuals with particular medical conditions, such as a history of seizures or epilepsy, should also not use Emsculpt. As mentioned, those with metal implants like pacemakers, or a history of cancer, especially if it was near the area they're considering for treatment, are also not candidates. It's always best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to get personalized advice and make sure Emsculpt aligns with each client's individual health profile.

How to Maintain Your Emsculpt Results

Achieving those sculpted results with Emsculpt is a fantastic first step, and naturally, you'll want to keep them looking great for as long as possible. The good news is that with a bit of commitment to your well-being, you can extend the benefits of your treatments. Think of Emsculpt as a powerful kickstart; what you do afterward really helps solidify and prolong those changes. It’s all about integrating supportive habits into your routine and understanding how to best care for your newly toned physique. Let's look at how you can play an active role in maintaining your Emsculpt results.

Lifestyle Habits to Support Your Results

The muscle definition and fat reduction you gain from Emsculpt treatments are best preserved when you pair them with a healthy lifestyle. This means continuing to make mindful choices about what you eat and ensuring you get regular exercise. Consistent physical activity will not only help maintain the muscle tone achieved but also prevent new fat accumulation. Don’t underestimate the power of good nutrition to fuel your body and support muscle health. While Emsculpt offers a significant advantage, think of it as a partner to your ongoing wellness efforts. Even simple things like getting enough rest play a part in how well your body maintains these positive changes.

Keeping Your Results: Follow-Up and Maintenance

Emsculpt results can be quite long-lasting, often visible for about six months to a year. However, to truly maximize and extend these effects, a proactive approach is key. Many find that scheduling maintenance treatments can help prolong the muscle tone and fat reduction. The frequency of these follow-up sessions can vary based on your individual goals and how your body responds. Alongside potential maintenance, consistent exercise remains a cornerstone for keeping those muscles firm and sculpted. Remember, the initial series of treatments, typically around four sessions, sets the foundation, but ongoing healthy habits are what sustain your success.

How to Choose Your Emsculpt Provider

Finding the right professional for your Emsculpt treatment is a significant step toward getting the results you want. It’s not just about locating a clinic that offers the service; it’s about connecting with a provider who truly understands your goals and has the expertise to help you achieve them safely and effectively. Think of this as forming a partnership for your body contouring journey. Taking the time to do your homework and ask thoughtful questions will set you up for a much better experience and give you peace of mind.

What to Look for in a Provider

When you're ready to select an Emsculpt provider, their experience should be a top consideration. You'll want to find a professional who is genuinely experienced with Emsculpt to ensure both your safety and the quality of your results. Don't hesitate to ask about their background and specific training with this technology.

Beyond their direct experience, a thorough consultation with a qualified professional is key. This meeting is your opportunity to discuss your individual needs and for them to assess if Emsculpt is the most suitable option for you. Generally, ideal candidates are those close to their target weight, already lead a health-conscious lifestyle, and exercise regularly but are looking for that extra muscle definition that can be challenging to achieve on their own.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

Preparing some good questions before your consultation can make a world of difference. Start by asking about any potential side effects and how the clinic typically manages them. This shows they are prepared and prioritize transparency with their patients.

Next, get clear on what your treatment plan will look like. Ask about the number of sessions they anticipate you'll need and the expected timeline for results. This helps set realistic expectations from the very beginning. Finally, it’s perfectly acceptable, and actually quite smart, to ask to see before-and-after photos of their previous Emsculpt patients. This gives you a real-world look at the kind of outcomes they’ve helped others achieve.

Emsculpt vs. Other Contouring Methods

When your clients are looking into body contouring, they're going to have questions about how different treatments stack up. It's completely natural for them to want to compare Emsculpt with other methods they've heard about. Understanding these differences in effectiveness, the kinds of results they can anticipate, and the overall cost helps everyone make well-informed choices. Emsculpt has really carved out its own niche, mainly because it tackles both muscle building and fat reduction, something not all contouring technologies are designed to do. Let's take a closer look at how it compares.

How Does It Stack Up: Effectiveness and Results

Emsculpt truly stands out due to its dual-action approach. While many treatments concentrate only on reducing fat, Emsculpt takes it a step further by also building and toning muscle. Clinical studies have shown some pretty compelling outcomes: on average, patients experience a 19% reduction in fat and a 16% increase in muscle mass in the treated area. For many, this can mean about a 1.5-inch reduction in their waistline. What's also noteworthy is that 80% of patients in studies reported a visible lift in their buttocks, contributing to an overall 96% patient satisfaction.

Compared to other non-invasive fat reduction techniques like CoolSculpting or SculpSure, Emsculpt offers a different kind of intensity and outcome. A single 30-minute session can induce around 20,000 muscle contractions – that’s like doing 20,000 crunches or squats! This intense muscular activity not only helps break down fat cells but, importantly, strengthens and defines muscles, often leading to quicker and more noticeable changes in body contour.

Thinking About Cost and Value

Now, let's discuss the investment. An Emsculpt session typically costs between $750 and $1,000, and for the best results, a series of four sessions is generally recommended. This means a full treatment course could be in the $3,000 to $4,000 range. While this might seem like a considerable figure, it's useful to weigh this against the unique benefits it offers – that simultaneous fat reduction and muscle building we just talked about. Many individuals find the distinct improvements in muscle tone and body shape to be a worthwhile investment.

It's also good to know that Emsculpt is considered a safe procedure for most people. Of course, there are some exceptions; it’s not suitable if someone has metal implants near the treatment area or during pregnancy. A thorough discussion of medical history with a provider is always the first step to ensure it's a safe choice. When you consider the results, the non-invasive nature, and the safety profile, the value becomes clearer for those seeking significant contouring changes.

Clearing Up Common Emsculpt Myths

When new body contouring technologies like Emsculpt arrive on the scene, it's completely normal for questions and a bit of buzz—both good and maybe a little misinformed—to pop up. Let's clear the air on some common Emsculpt myths. This way, you'll have solid information to share, helping your clients understand what this treatment truly involves and what it can realistically do for them.

Worried About Pain? What Emsculpt Feels Like

One of the first things people usually wonder is, "Will Emsculpt hurt?" It's a totally fair question for any new treatment. The great news is, Emsculpt isn't typically described as painful. Instead, clients often report an unusual and intense sensation. Imagine their muscles getting a super-charged workout in a specific area, but without them having to do any of the actual exertion or even break a sweat. Some describe it as feeling like their muscles are undergoing very strong contractions, which is precisely what’s happening! They might feel a distinct "pulling" sensation as the device works its magic. Plus, the intensity is adjustable, so you or your technician can fine-tune it to a level that’s challenging yet remains comfortable for your client.

Emsculpt and Weight Loss: Setting Clear Expectations

It's really important to set clear expectations about Emsculpt and weight loss from the get-go. While clients will likely notice a reduction in fat and a definite improvement in muscle tone, Emsculpt isn't designed as a primary weight-loss tool. Its real power lies in its ability to build muscle and reduce fat in targeted spots, like the abdomen or buttocks. For instance, it can help increase muscle mass by around 16% and reduce fat by up to 19% in the treated area. To achieve the best, most lasting outcomes, it’s key to explain that Emsculpt works best when it complements a healthy lifestyle—think regular exercise and balanced eating—rather than serving as a replacement for these habits. This approach helps clients not only see great results but also maintain them long-term.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Emsculpt just a quick fix if I don't like exercising? Think of Emsculpt more as a powerful partner to your existing fitness efforts, or a great way to kickstart muscle definition. While it creates muscle contractions far beyond what you can do in a typical workout, it's not meant to replace a healthy lifestyle. The best and most lasting results come when Emsculpt treatments are combined with consistent physical activity and balanced eating habits.

I'm already in good shape. Can Emsculpt still benefit me? Absolutely! Many people who are already fit use Emsculpt to target those stubborn areas where they want more definition or to enhance muscle tone that even dedicated workouts can't quite achieve. It can help you refine specific muscle groups and achieve a more sculpted look, taking your current physique to the next level.

How soon will I notice a difference, and how long do the results stick around? Some people report feeling a difference, like increased firmness, fairly quickly, even after just one or two sessions. However, the most noticeable visual changes typically develop two to four weeks after you complete your full series of treatments, which is usually four sessions. These results can last for six months to a year, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and considering occasional maintenance treatments can help extend them even longer.

What does an Emsculpt session actually feel like? Is it going to hurt? Most people don't describe Emsculpt as painful. You'll feel very strong and intense muscle contractions in the area being treated, which can be an unusual sensation – like your muscles are doing an incredibly hard workout without you moving. The intensity can be adjusted to your comfort level, and there's no downtime needed afterward, though you might feel some muscle soreness, similar to after a tough gym session.

If Emsculpt builds muscle, why can't I just do more sit-ups or squats? Emsculpt uses High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to cause supramaximal muscle contractions. This means the contractions are much stronger and more rapid than what you can achieve voluntarily through exercise. A single 30-minute session can induce about 20,000 of these contractions, forcing your muscles to adapt in a way that traditional exercise simply can't replicate in the same timeframe.