How effective is the electromuscular stimulation?

Maintains electrostimulation as a training method, what it promises?

06/16/2014

Electromuscular stimulation (also known as electromyostimulation, or EMS for short) aims to strengthen certain muscles through targeted stimulation. Originally used primarily for rehabilitation, technology has since developed into a trend in the fitness industry, with which the training results are to be significantly improved. Here also the so-called EMS whole body training is used, „in which electrical impulses are simultaneously applied from the thighs to the shoulders“, reports the news agency „dpa“.

The EMS training options are offered in various modern gyms. The trainees receive a special absorbent cycling shorts and a corresponding T-shirt. It is applied with a wetted vest equipped with electrodes, which is connected by cables to thighs, abdomen, back and arms with the EMS device, the release of the „dpa“. The sports scientist and head of the department of force diagnostics and movement research at the German Sport University Cologne, Heinz Kleinöder, quoted the news agency with the statement: „There are several studies with very positive results.“

Current impulses should increase the efficiency of the training
Trainers behind large shop windows in odd-looking sportswear perform strange movements. Thus, the modern fitness method EMS appears to passers-by in various German inner cities. „You look a bit like being in a taskforce“, explains the owner of such a studio in Berlin, Christian Musche, opposite the „dpa“. Due to the weak current impulses even short training sessions should achieve a considerable effect. Heinz Kleinöder explained to the application that the first training sessions require a lot of coordination, but most people would quickly get used to it and „From the second training session, learn to play with the stimulus.“

Pregnancy, pacemaker, infectious diseases as a contraindication
The current impulses of the EMS are associated with a tingling sensation that can be a bit unpleasant or getting used to. In general, according to Kleinöder in the EMS training a good guidance of the trainers is very important to achieve the highest possible efficiency and to avoid unwanted side effects. For example, EMS is strictly contraindicated in patients with a pacemaker or during pregnancy, explained the store manager and trainer of a gym in Berlin, Yvonne Kröhl, to the „dpa“. Also one „bacterial or viral disease“ be a contraindication.

If in doubt, consult a physician before training
In addition, according to a statement by Kröhl should be consulted in the presence of diseases such as diabetes before the EMS a doctor. Meanwhile, most doctors would know this method and could therefore make an assessment, explained the EMS expert in the Association of German fitness and health companies, John Pommerien. In reference to the coach's instructions, Pommerien explains that this „usually“ would be trained by the equipment manufacturers and the interested parties should therefore inquire accordingly. The experts recommend no more than one EMS training session per week, with Kleinöder explaining that this should not take more than 20 minutes.

Missing studies on the effect of EMS
Whether the positive effects of EMS can also be used for grassroots sport remains open in the face of the lack of scientific studies. However, it is clear that EMS can be a useful adjunct therapy for athletes who have to take a break from training due to an injury. Also the beneficial effect in the rehabilitation of muscle injuries is clear. However, this does not mean that all patients benefit equally from the EMS, explained Prof. Holger Schmitt of the German Society for Sports Medicine and Prevention (DGSP) „dpa“. For example, Schmitt uses EMS for rehabilitation after cruciate ligament surgery. In view of the minimal risk of side effects under professional guidance, however, there is little objection to an attempt by the accompanying EMS, the medical doctor concludes. (Fp)