EMS Training (Is it the future?)
EMS training offers a distinctive approach compared to traditional weight training or conditioning work by harnessing electrical impulses to induce muscle contractions.
Unlike standard workouts reliant solely on voluntary muscle activation initiated by the brain, EMS training prompts both voluntary and involuntary muscle contractions. This leads to a more comprehensive training opportunity.
Advantages of EMS
One of its primary advantages lies in its capacity to target deep muscle fibers that may be challenging to activate solely through conventional exercises. This deep muscle stimulation can yield amplified muscle strength, enhanced muscle tone, and heightened overall muscle recruitment.
Research suggests that EMS training can effectively engage a higher percentage of muscle fibers compared to voluntary contractions alone.
For instance, a study by Filipovic (2011) demonstrated that different electromyostimulation methods led to notable improvements in selected strength parameters among trained and elite athletes. Additionally, findings from Kemmler (2015) highlighted the positive effects of whole-body electromyostimulation on resting metabolic rate, body composition, and maximum strength in postmenopausal women.
Furthermore, EMS training’s ability to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously makes it a time-efficient workout option. Especially for individuals with limited time for exercise.
While EMS training offers promising benefits, it’s crucial to recognize that it should complement rather than replace traditional workouts. While EMS-induced contractions can activate a broader range of muscle fibers, it may not entirely replicate the functional movements and skill development inherent in traditional weight training or conditioning routines.
To delve deeper into the efficacy and benefits of EMS training, consider exploring the following resources. These studies provide valuable insights into the efficacy and mechanisms of EMS training. They offer evidence-based perspectives on its potential to enhance muscle strength, metabolic rate, and overall fitness outcomes.
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Filipovic, A., Kleinöder, H., Dörmann, U., & Mester, J. (2011). Electromyostimulation—a systematic review of the effects of different electromyostimulation methods on selected strength parameters in trained and elite athletes. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 25(11), 3218-3238.
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Kemmler, W., Bebenek, M., Engelke, K., & Fröhlich, M. (2015). Effects of whole-body electromyostimulation on resting metabolic rate, body composition, and maximum strength in postmenopausal women: the Training and ElectroStimulation Trial. The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, 29(3), 774-782.
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Martínez-Cava, A., Hernández-Belmonte, A., Courel-Ibáñez, J., Morán-Navarro, R., González-Badillo, J. J., & Pallarés, J. G. (2019). Comparison of Neuromuscular Adaptations Between Voluntary and Electrically Stimulated Strength Training in Severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients. Frontiers in Physiology, 10, 1503.
