Whole-body Electromyostimulation Group Research Articles

Comparison of the effects of core stability and whole-body electromyostimulation exercises on lumbar lordosis angle and dynamic balance of sedentary people with hyperlordosis: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundHyperlordosis is an excessive inward curvature of the lumbar spine that affects spinal function. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of core stability exercises (CSE), Whole-Body Electromyostimulation (WB-EMS), and CSE Plus on the Lumbar lordosis angle and dynamic balance in sedentary people with hyperlordosis.MethodsIn a parallel randomized controlled trial study, seventy five untrained male adults with hyperlordosis, recruited from clinics of sports medicine and corrective exercise centers in Tehran, were randomly assigned to four groups: CSE (n = 19), WB-EMS (n = 18), CSE Plus (n = 18), and control Group (CG) (n = 20). The CSE group performed Core stability exercises, the WB-EMS group followed a Whole-body electromyostimulation combined training protocol, and the CSE Plus group engaged in a combined program protocol (CSE with the WB-EMS vest), and the control group only participated in activities of daily living. Anthropometric parameters and outcomes, including the lordosis angle and dynamic balance, were assessed before and after a six-week training program. A flexible ruler was used to measure the angle of lordosis, and the Y balance test was employed to evaluate the dynamic balance.ResultsThe results indicated that the lordosis angle improved in both the CSE and CSE Plus groups compared to the CG in the post-test (P = 0.017, P = 0.024). However, there were no significant differences observed between the other group pairs. Additionally, a significant difference in dynamic balance was found between the CSE Plus group and the CG in the post-test (P = 0.001), while no significant differences were observed between the other group pairs. Furthermore, within-group test results demonstrated that lumbar lordosis angle and dynamic balance variables significantly improved in the post-test compared to the pre-test stage (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe two CSE and CSE Plus training protocols are effective as training methods for correcting certain parameters and physical deformities, including lumbar lordosis. Furthermore, the CSE Plus group demonstrated a positive impact on improving dynamic balance. Consequently, it is highly recommended that individuals with hyperlordosis can benefit from the exercises of the present study, especially CSE Plus exercises along with other rehabilitation exercises.Trial registrationThe trial was registered at Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20221004011, registration date: 04/10/2022).

Impact of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation and Resistance Training Programme on Strength Parameters and Body Composition in Group of Elderly Women at Risk of Sarcopenia

Objective: The purpose of the study is to compare the effect of ten-week lasting whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) and the circuit resistance training programme (RT) on body composition and strength parameters in women at risk of sarcopenia. Methods: The WB-EMS programme was carried out once a week and included ten exercise sessions, the RT was carried out twice a week and included 20 sessions. 17 elderly women participated in the study, nine in a WB-EMS intervention group (age: 63.11±1.52 years; weight: 70.07±9.07kg; height: 165.11±6.4cm; BMI 25.81±3.96kg/m2), eight in a RT group (age: 62.13±1.69 years; weight: 73.58±3.87 kg; BMI 27.34±2.58 kg/m2). To assess body composition, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used. To determine the level of strength parameters, hand dynamometry and isokinetic dynamometry of knee flexors and knee extensors were used. Results: Body composition assessment was performed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and strength parameters were evaluated using isometric dynamometry (knee flexors and extensors strength). After completing ten weeks of intervention, significant differences were observed for lean muscle mass (RT group, Leanmasspre-test 43316.91 ± 1856.77 vs. Leanmasspost-test 43939.56 ± 1869.84, p= 0.0307). No significant differences were found between the pre-test and post-test in the WB-EMS group (Leanmasspre-test 39472.56 ± 3370.04 vs. Leanmasspost-test 38835.56 ± 3306.84, p= 0.5995). The isokinetic dynamometry analysis showed significant differences for the extensors and the peak torque on the right side in the RT group (Extensors Peak Torquepre-test 98.00 ± 13.55 vs. Extensors Peak Torquepost-test 38835.56 ± 3306.84, p= 0.0160; Flexors Peak Torquepre-test 54.25 ± 11.14 vs. Flexors Peak Torquepost-test 59.75 ± 11.13, p= 0.0059). Conclusions: The most obvious finding that emerges from this study is that resistance training has shown a greater effect than whole-body electromyostimulation.

Effects of whole-body electromyostimulation training on upper limb muscles strength and body composition in moderately trained males: A randomized controlled study.

Resistance training has been known to have a positive effect on muscle performance in exercisers. Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) is advertised as a smooth, time-efficient, and highly individualized resistance training technology. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of WB-EMS training on maximum isometric elbow muscle strength and body composition in moderately trained males in comparison to traditional resistance training. The study was a randomized controlled single-blind trial. Twenty, moderately trained, male participants (25.15 ± 3.84, years) were randomly assigned to the following groups: a WB-EMS training group (n = 11) and a traditional resistance training group (the control group [CG]: n = 9). Both training intervention programs consisted of 18 training sessions for six consecutive weeks. All subjects performed dynamic movements with the WB-EMS or external weights (CG). The primary outcome variables included maximum isometric elbow flexor strength (MIEFS), maximum isometric elbow extensor strength (MIEES) and surface electromyography amplitude (sEMGRMS). Secondary outcomes involved lean body mass, body fat content, arm fat mass, and arm lean mass. ANOVAs, Friedman test and post hoc t-tests were used (P = 0.05) to analyze the variables development after the 6-week intervention between the groups. Significant time × group interactions for MIEFS (η2 = 0.296, PBonferroni = 0.013) were observed, the increase in the WB-EMS group were significantly superior to the CG [23.49 ± 6.48% vs. 17.01 ± 4.36%; MD (95% CI) = 6.48 (1.16, 11.80); d = 1.173, P = 0.020]. There were no significant differences were observed between interventions regarding MIEES, sEMGRMS and body composition. These findings indicate that in moderately trained males the effects of WB-EMS were similar to a traditional resistance training, with the only exception of a significantly greater increase in elbow flexor strength. WB-EMS can be considered as an effective exercise addition for moderately trained males.

IMPACT OF WHOLE-BODY ELECTROMYOSTIMULATION AND RESISTANCE TRAINING ON BONE MINERAL DENSITY IN WOMEN AT RISK OF OSTEOPOROSIS

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in physical activity programs for older adults. Questions have been raised about the efficacy of programs regarding real effects on life. The purpose of the study is to compare the impact of ten weeks of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) and resistance training (RT) programs on one mineral density (BMD) and T-score values in women at risk of osteoporosis. The WB-EMS was carried out once per week (total: ten sessions), the RT was carried out twice per week (total: 20 sessions). Twenty-eight elderly women participated in the study, nine in a WB-EMS group (weight: 69.84±10.29kg; BMI: 25.04±4.18 kg/m2), eight in a RT group (weight: 74.16±4.19kg; BMI: 27.35±2.76 kg/m2), and ten in a control group (CG) (weight: 79.72±15.61kg kg; BMI 28.58±5.70 kg/m2). A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scanner (DXA) was used to assess body composition, BMD, and T-score values. To identify the statistical significance of the differences between pre-test and post-test in all groups, the parametric t-test was used. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Although no significant differences were found in either BMD or T-score values, the study appeared to elicit some positive behaviour that could have an impact for more than ten weeks. The present study was designed to determine the effect of RT and WB-EMS on selected parameters in groups of women at risk of osteoporosis. Even though the results were not statistically significant, we consider the impact of programs on the level of BMD and T-score beneficial. Results show that the RT method is more practical. More tested subjects of the RT reported the same or higher level of BMD in the post-test compared to the WB-EMS method (RT 50% vs WB-EMS 44.7%). It was impossible to further investigate the significant relationships between selected parameters and intervention because the sample size was too small. Therefore, a further study with more focus on the duration of intervention and an increase in sample size is suggested.

Effects of whole-body electromyostimulation with two different frequencies and combined training on lipid profile and body composition in overweight women

IntroductionThe study aimed to investigate the effects of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) and combined training on lipid profile and body composition in overweight women.MethodsOverall, 45 overweight (body mass index [BMI]: 27.73 ± 1.59 kg/m2) women (aged 32.89 ± 4.59 years) voluntarily participated in this study. They were randomly assigned to 3 groups: a WB-EMS group, who received WB-EMS (2 sessions/week, 20 min/session; first session each week: 85 Hz, 350 μs, 4 s pulse, 4 s rest; second session: 7–15 Hz, 350 μs, continuous pulse); a combined training group, who underwent aerobic and bodyweight resistance training (2 sessions/week, 20 min/session); and a control group. In all 3 groups, lipid profile and body composition were assessed before and after 8 weeks of intervention.ResultsIn the WB-EMS group, within-group comparison revealed significant differences in triglyceride, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, body weight, BMI, waist-hip ratio, waist circumference, body fat percentage, body fat mass, and lean body mass values (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; ≤ 0.05); there was no significant difference only in fasting blood sugar. In the combined training group, a significant difference was only observed in BMI (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; ≤ 0.05). In the post-intervention between-group comparison, there were significant differences only in high-density lipoprotein and body fat percentage (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; ≤ 0.05).ConclusionsSince WB-EMS has positive effects on lipid profile and body composition, it may be a proper method for people who have limited time for exercise or are unable or unmotivated to practise conventional exercises.

Effects of Resistance Training and Whole-Body Electromyostimulation on Muscular Strength in Female Collegiate Softball Players

Strength and conditioning coaches frequently use traditional resistance training (TRT) to build strength. However, in recent years, whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) was used in elite athletes to increase muscle strength. This study aimed to assess the effect of two different types of training on muscular strength. Sixty female collegiate players (Age = 23.52±1.89 years, Height = 156.20±1.71cm; Mass = 53.21±3.17kg) participated in this study and were randomly assigned to three training groups. All groups trained as usual for eight weeks, except for the first group, which received additional TRT. The second group received additional electrical stimulation training, and the third group did not receive any additional training following the regular softball bat swing training. Muscular strength (upper and lower body) was assessed by a 3RM bench press and a 3RM squat test before and after the eight-week programme. The primary findings indicate that after eight weeks of training, upper body and lower body strength increased significantly in both the TRT and WB-EMS groups (p = 0.000 and p = 0.000, respectively) in comparison to the control group. However, the t value indicated that the TRT group improved both upper body strength (20.18) and lower body strength (29.18) more than the WB-EMS group (upper body = 6.18; lower body = 6.47). The findings demonstrate the efficacy of both training modalities for increasing muscular strength and suggest that TRT be prioritised over whole-body electrical stimulation training for increasing muscular strength in collegiate softball players.

Once Weekly Whole-Body Electromyostimulation Enhances Muscle Quality in Men: Data of the Randomized Controlled Franconian Electromyostimulation and Golf Study.

Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) is commercially advertised as a time-efficient resistance-type exercise technology. Indeed, the commercial, non-medical setting applies 20 min of WB-EMS only once a week. However, this setting conflicts with the approved scientific approach of higher training frequencies. Using data from an ongoing study on WB-EMS and golf performance as a vehicle, we evaluate the effect of once weekly WB-EMS on changes of fatty muscle infiltration, as a crucial parameter of muscle quality. Fifty-four moderately physically active male amateur golfers 18–70 years old were randomly allocated to a WB-EMS (n = 27) with a standard setting of once weekly 20 min and a non-WB-EMS control group (CG, n = 27). Intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) volume and intrafascial muscle tissue (MT) volume per unit of intrafascial volume as determined by magnetic resonance imaging were used to characterize muscle quality. Intention to treat analysis with multiple imputation was applied. WB-EMS was conducted at the participants’ homes; thus, the attendance rate was close to 100%. After 16 weeks of intervention, we observed increases in volume-adjusted IMAT (p = 0.040) and decreases in MT (p = 0.206) in the CG. IMAT decreased in the WB-EMS group (p = 0.215), while MT increased significantly (p = 0.032). Of importance, group difference (i.e., “effects”) for intra-group changes in volume-adjusted IMAT (effect size: d´ = 0.66; p = 0.028) and MT (d´ = 0.70; p = 0.020) was significant for both parameters. Once weekly WB-EMS application significantly affects muscle quality of the mid-thigh in moderately active, healthy men 18–70 years old.

Effects of whole-body electromyostimulation on function, muscle mass, strength, social participation, and falls-efficacy in older people: A randomized trial protocol.

Resistance training has a positive impact on functional capacity and muscle mass in the elderly. However, due to physical limitations or a simple aversion against regular exercise, a majority of the elderly do not reach the recommended exercise doses. This led us to evaluate the effect of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS), a novel, time-efficient, and smooth training technology on physical function, fat-free mass, strength, falls-efficacy, and social participation of the elderly. The present study is a randomized, parallel group clinical trial approved by the Ethics Committee of our Institution. Sixty-six volunteers (age ≥ 60 years) will be recruited from the geriatric outpatient department in a tertiary hospital and primary care units and randomized into two groups: WB-EMS group or active control group (aCG). The WB-EMS or aCG protocol will consist of 16 sessions for 8 consecutive weeks, twice per week. The primary outcomes will be maximal isometric knee extension (IKE), functional lower extremity strength, fat-free mass, gait speed, and risk of falls measured before and after intervention. The secondary outcomes will be social participation and falls-efficacy assessed before and after the intervention and at three and six months of follow-up. Participant's satisfaction with and awareness of electrical stimulation therapy will also be assessed immediately after the 8-week intervention. Patients receiving WB-EMS exercises are believed to have better outcomes than those receiving conventional, more time-consuming resistance exercises. Hence, innovative, time-efficient, joint-friendly, and highly individualized exercise technologies (such as WB-EMS) may be a good choice for the elderly with time constraints, physical limitations, or little enthusiasm, who are exercising less than the recommended amounts for impact on muscle mass, strength, and function.

Effects of whole-body electromyostimulation exercise and caloric restriction on cardiometabolic risk profile and muscle strength in obese women with the metabolic syndrome: a pilot study.

Obesity, particularly in conjunction with further cardiometabolic risk factors, is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Increased physical activity and dietary modifications are cornerstones of therapeutic interventions to treat obesity and related risk factors. Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) has emerged as an innovative, time-efficient type of exercise that can provide positive effects on body composition and muscle strength. However, the impact of WB-EMS on cardiometabolic health in obese individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) has yet to be determined. The aim of this pilot study was, therefore, to investigate the feasibility and effects of WB-EMS on cardiometabolic risk markers and muscle strength in obese women diagnosed with MetS. Twenty-nine obese women (56.0 ± 10.9 years, BMI: 36.7 ± 4.6 kg/m2) with the clinical diagnosis of MetS were randomized to either 12 weeks of WB-EMS (n = 15) or an inactive control group (CON, n = 14). Both groups received nutritional counseling (aim: -500 kcal energy deficit/day). WB-EMS was performed 2x/week (20 min/session). Body composition, maximum strength (Fmax) of major muscle groups, selected cardiometabolic risk indices and the metabolic syndrome Z-score (MetS-Z) were determined baseline and after the intervention. WB-EMS was well tolerated and no adverse events occurred. Body weight was significantly reduced in both groups by an average of ~3 kg (P < 0.01). The body fat percentage was only decreased in the WB-EMS group (P = 0.018). Total cholesterol concentrations decreased in the WB-EMS group (P = 0.018) and in CON (P = 0.027). Only the WB-EMS group increased Fmax significantly in all major muscle groups (P < 0.05) and improved the overall cardiometabolic risk score (MetS-Z, P = 0.029). This pilot study indicates that WB-EMS can be considered as a feasible and time-efficient exercise option for improving body composition, muscle strength and cardiometabolic health in obese women with MetS. Moreover, these findings underpin the crucial role of exercise during weight loss interventions in improving health outcomes.

Effects of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation on the Energy-Restriction-Induced Reduction of Muscle Mass During Intended Weight Loss.

Purpose: Overweight and obesity are an increasing problem worldwide. However, most studies that focus on weight reduction by energy restriction and/or aerobic exercise reported considerable loss of muscle mass as well. Increased protein intake and/or resistance exercise might inhibit this detrimental effect during a negative energy balance. Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS), a time effective, joint-friendly, and highly customizable training technology, showed similar hypertrophic effects compared with high-intensity resistance training. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of WB-EMS on body composition during negative energy balance with maintained/increased protein intake in overweight premenopausal women.Patients and Methods: Ninety premenopausal, 25–50-year-old, overweight women were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 30 each). (1) Negative energy balance (−500 kcal/day) by energy restriction with compensatory protein intake (CG). (2) Negative energy balance (−500 kcal/day) by energy restriction (−250 kcal/day) and increased physical activity (−250 kcal/day) with increased protein intake (PA). (3) Negative energy balance (−500 kcal/day) due to energy restriction and increased physical activity with increased protein intake plus WB-EMS. The duration of the intervention was 16 weeks. Participants underwent restrictions in kcal per days and supplementation of protein (CG: 1.2 or PA/WB-EMS: 1.7 g/kg body mass/day) where needed. Bipolar WB-EMS was applied 1.5× week for 20 min (85 Hz; 350 μs; intermittent 6 s impulse, 4 s rest; rectangular). The primary study endpoint “lean body mass” (LBM) and secondary endpoint body fat mass (BFM) were assessed by bio-impedance analysis (BIA).Results: LBM decreased in the CG and PA group (CG: −113 ± 1,872 g; PA: −391 ± 1,832 g) but increased in the WB-EMS group (387 ± 1,769 g). However, changes were not significant (p > 0.05). Comparing the groups by ANOVA, no significant differences were observed (p = 0.070). However, pairwise adjusted comparisons determined significant differences between WB-EMS and PA (p = 0.049). BFM decreased significantly (p < 0.001) in all groups (CG: −2,174 ± 4,331 g; PA: −3,743 ± 4,237 g; WB-EMS: −3,278 ± 4,023 g) without any significant difference between the groups (ANOVA: p = 0.131).Conclusion: WB-EMS is an efficient, joint-friendly, and highly customizable training technology for maintaining muscle mass during energy restriction and can thus be considered as an alternative to more demanding resistance exercise protocols.

Effects of an Eight-Week Superimposed Submaximal Dynamic Whole-Body Electromyostimulation Training on Strength and Power Parameters of the Leg Muscles: A Randomized Controlled Intervention Study.

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of dynamic superimposed submaximal whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) training on maximal strength and power parameters of the leg muscles compared with a similar dynamic training without WB-EMS. Eighteen male sport students were randomly assigned either to a WB-EMS intervention (INT; n = 9; age: 28.8 (SD: 3.0) years; body mass: 80.2 (6.6) kg; strength training experience: 4.6 (2.8) years) or a traditional strength training group (CON; n = 9; age: 22.8 (2.5) years; body mass: 77.6 (9.0) kg; strength training experience: 4.5 (2.9) years). Both training intervention programs were performed twice a week over a period of 8 weeks with the only difference that INT performed all dynamic exercises (e.g., split squats, glute-ham raises, jumps, and tappings) with superimposed WB-EMS. WB-EMS intensity was adjusted to 70% of the individual maximal tolerable pain to ensure dynamic movement. Before (PRE), after (POST) and 2 weeks after the intervention (FU), performance indices were assessed by maximal strength (Fmax) and maximal power (Pmax) testing on the leg extension (LE), leg curl (LC), and leg press (LP) machine as primary endpoints. Additionally, vertical and horizontal jumps and 30 m sprint tests were conducted as secondary endpoints at PRE, POST and FU testing. Significant time effects were observed for strength and power parameters on LE and LC (LE Fmax +5.0%; LC Pmax +13.5%). A significant time × group interaction effect was merely observed for Fmax on the LE where follow-up post hoc testing showed significantly higher improvements in the INT group from PRE to POST and PRE to FU (INT: +7.7%, p < 0.01; CON: +2.1%). These findings indicate that the combination of dynamic exercises and superimposed submaximal WB-EMS seems to be effective in order to improve leg strength and power. However, in young healthy adults the effects of superimposed WB-EMS were similar to the effects of dynamic resistance training without EMS, with the only exception of a significantly greater increase in leg extension Fmax in the WB-EMS group.

Exercise training as S-Klotho protein stimulator in sedentary healthy adults: Rationale, design, and methodology.

AimsThe secreted form of the α-Klotho gene (S-Klotho), which is considered a powerful biomarker of longevity, makes it an attractive target as an anti-ageing therapy against functional decline, sarcopenic obesity, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and neurodegenerative disorders. The S-Klotho plasma levels could be related to physical exercise inasmuch physical exercise is involved in physiological pathways that regulate the S-Klotho plasma levels. FIT-AGEING will determine the effect of different training modalities on the S-Klotho plasma levels (primary outcome) in sedentary healthy adults. FIT-AGEING will also investigate the physiological consequences of activating the klotho gene (secondary outcomes).MethodsFIT-AGEING will recruit 80 sedentary, healthy adults (50% women) aged 45–65 years old. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to a non-exercise group, i.e. the control group, (n = 20), a physical activity recommendation from World Health Organization group (n = 20), a high intensity interval training group (n = 20), and a whole-body electromyostimulation group (n = 20). The laboratory measurements will be taken at the baseline and 12 weeks later including the S-Klotho plasma levels, physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength), body composition, basal metabolic rate, heart rate variability, maximal fat oxidation, health blood biomarkers, free-living physical activity, sleep habits, reaction time, cognitive variables, and health-related questionnaires. We will also obtain dietary habits data and cardiovascular disease risk factors.

The efficacy and safety of whole-body electromyostimulation in applying to human body: based from graded exercise test.

Recently, whole body-electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) has upgraded its functions and capabilities and has overcome limitations and inconveniences from past systems. Although the efficacy and safety of EMS have been examined in some studies, specific guidelines for applying WB-EMS are lacking. To determine the efficacy and safety of applying it in healthy men to improve cardiopulmonary and psychophysiological variables when applying WB-EMS. Sixty-four participants were randomly grouped into control group (without electrical stimuli) or WB-EMS group after a 6-week baseline period. The control group (n=33; female. 15; male, 18) wore the WB-EMS suit as much as the WB-EMS group (n=31; female, 15; male, 16). There were no abnormal changes in the cardiopulmonary variables (heart rate, systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure, and oxygen uptake) during or after the graded exercise test (GXT) in both groups. There was a significant decrease in SBP and an increase of oxygen uptake from stages 3 to 5 of the GXT in the WB-EMS group. The psychophysiological factors for a WB-EMS group, which consisted of soreness, anxiety, fatigability, and sleeplessness were significantly decreased after the experiment. The application of WB-EMS in healthy young men did not negatively affect the cardiopulmonary and psychophysiological factors. Rather, the application of WB-EMS improved SBP and oxygen uptake in submaximal and maximal stages of GXT. This study also confirmed that 6 weeks of WB-EMS training can improve psychophysiological factors.

Whole-body electromyostimulation and protein supplementation favorably affect sarcopenic obesity in community-dwelling older men at risk: the randomized controlled FranSO study.

BackgroundSarcopenic obesity (SO) is a geriatric syndrome characterized by the disproportion between the amount of lean mass and fat mass. Exercise decreases fat and maintains muscle mass; however, older people fail to exercise at doses sufficient to affect musculoskeletal and cardiometabolic risk factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS), a time-efficient, joint-friendly and highly individualized exercise technology, on sarcopenia and SO in older men.Materials and methodsA total of 100 community-dwelling northern Bavarian men aged ≥70 years with sarcopenia and obesity were randomly (1–1–1) assigned to either 16 weeks of 1) WB-EMS and protein supplementation (WB-EMS&P), 2) isolated protein supplementation or 3) nonintervention control. WB-EMS consisted of 1.5×20 min (85 Hz, 350 µs, 4 s of strain to 4 s of rest) applied with moderate-to-high intensity while moving. We further generated a daily protein intake of 1.7–1.8 g/kg/body mass per day. The primary study end point was Sarcopenia Z-Score, and the secondary study end points were body fat rate (%), skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) and handgrip strength.ResultsIntention-to-treat analysis determined a significantly favorable effect of WB-EMS&P (P<0.001) and protein (P=0.007) vs control. Both groups significantly (P<0.001) lost body fat (WB-EMS&P: 2.1%; protein: 1.1%) and differed significantly (P≤0.004) from control (0.3%). Differences between WB-EMS&P and protein were significant for the Sarcopenia Z-Score (P=0.39) and borderline nonsignificant (P=0.051) for body fat. SMI increased significantly in both groups (P<0.001 and P=0.043) and decreased significantly in the control group (CG; P=0.033); differences between the verum groups and control were significant (P≤0.009). Handgrip strength increased in the WB-EMS group (1.90 kg; P<0.001; P=0.050 vs control) only. No adverse effects of WB-EMS or protein supplementation were recorded.ConclusionWB-EMS&P is a safe and efficient method for tackling sarcopenia and SO in older men. However, the suboptimum effect on functional parameters should be addressed by increased voluntary activation during WB-EMS application.

Effects of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation versus High-Intensity Resistance Exercise on Body Composition and Strength: A Randomized Controlled Study

High-intensity (resistance) exercise (HIT) and whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) are both approaches to realize time-efficient favorable changes of body composition and strength. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of WB-EMS compared with the gold standard reference HIT, for improving body composition and muscle strength in middle-aged men. Forty-eight healthy untrained men, 30–50 years old, were randomly allocated to either HIT (2 sessions/week) or a WB-EMS group (3 sessions/2 weeks) that exercised for 16 weeks. HIT was applied as “single-set-to-failure protocol,” while WB-EMS was conducted with intermittent stimulation (6 s WB-EMS, 4 s rest; 85 Hz, 350 ms) over 20 minutes. The main outcome parameters were lean body mass (LBM) as determined via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and maximum dynamic leg-extensor strength (isokinetic leg-press). LBM changes of both groups (HIT 1.25 ± 1.44% versus WB-EMS 0.93 ± 1.15%) were significant (p = .001); however, no significant group differences were detected (p = .395). Leg-extensor strength also increased in both groups (HIT 12.7 ± 14.7%, p = .002, versus WB-EMS 7.3 ± 10.3%, p = .012) with no significant (p = .215) between-group difference. Corresponding changes were also determined for body fat and back-extensor strength. Conclusion. In summary, WB-EMS can be considered as a time-efficient but pricy option to HIT-resistance exercise for people aiming at the improvement of general strength and body composition.

Impact of whole-body electromyostimulation on body composition in elderly women at risk for sarcopenia: the Training and ElectroStimulation Trial (TEST-III)

Most studies have confirmed the positive impact of resistance training on muscle mass and functional capacity in aging adults. However, due to physical limitation or a simple aversion against regular exercise, the majority of elderly subjects do not reach the exercise doses recommended for impacting strength or muscle mass. This led us to evaluate the effect of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS), a novel, time-efficient and smooth training technology, on body composition with special regard to sarcopenia. Seventy-six lean, non-sportive women (75 ± 4 years) were randomly assigned to either a WB-EMS group (WB-EMS, n = 38) that performed 18 min of WB-EMS (bipolar, 85 Hz) 3 sessions in 14 days (1.5 sessions/week) or a semi-active control group (aCG, n = 38). Body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and maximum strength was evaluated using isometric techniques for trunk and legs. After 54 weeks of intervention, significant inter-group differences were determined for appendicular skeletal muscle mass (WB-EMS, 0.4 ± 2.2 % vs. aCG, -1.5 ± 3.1 %; p = 0.009), lean body mass (WB-EMS, 0.8 ± 1.8 % vs. aCG, -0.8 ± 2.7 %; p = 0.008) and maximum isometric strength (leg extensors, 9.8 ± 12.9 % vs. 0.2 ± 10.4 %; p = 0.003; trunk extensors, 10.1 ± 12.7 vs. -1.6 ± 8.6 %; p = 0.001). Although borderline significant for abdominal fat mass (WB-EMS, -2.9 ± 8.3 vs. aCG, 1.5 ± 10.7 %; p = 0.069), differences did not reach statistically significant levels for body fat parameters. Considering the clinical effectiveness for impacting sarcopenia and the good acceptance of this technology by this non-sportive cohort of elderly women, we conclude that for elderly subjects unable or unwilling to perform dynamic strength exercises, electromyostimulation may be a less off-putting alternative to maintain lean body mass and strength.

Effekte der Ganzkörper-Elektro-myostimulation auf die Knochendichte eines Hochrisikokollektivs für Osteoporose

Zusammenfassung Ziel: Intensives körperliches Training zum Erhalt der Knochendichte kann oder möchte von vielen älteren Menschen nicht durchgeführt werden. Ganzkörper-Elektromyostimulation (WB-EMS) könnte hier eine geeignete Option zur Frakturprophylaxe sein. Methodik: Inaktive, schlanke und osteopenische Frauen (75 ± 4 Jahre; BMI: 22 ± 1 kg/m2) wurden randomisiert einer WB-EMS- (n = 38) und einer Kontrollgruppe (KG: n = 38) zugeteilt. Die WB-EMS-Gruppe führte über 54 Wochen eine EMS-Applikation (1,5 x 20 min/Woche, 85 Hz) durch. Studienendpunkte waren die Knochendichte (BMD) an der Lendenwirbelsäule (LS) und am Schenkelhals (SH). Es wurde eine Intentionto- Treat (ITT)- und eine Per-Protokoll-Analyse (PPA) durchgeführt. Ergebnisse: Die ITT-Analyse zeigte für die BMD-LS (WB-EMS: 0,6 ± 2,5 % vs. KG: −0,7 ± 2,5 %, p = 0,050) im Gegensatz zur BMD-SH (−0,3 ± 2,2 % vs. −0,6 ± 2,8 %, p = 0,768) einen “grenzwertig” signifikanten Zwischengruppenunterschied. Die PPA bestätigte dieses Ergebnis (BMD-LS: 0,9 ± 2,1 vs. −0,6 ± 2,5 %, p = 0,015; BMD-SH: 0,1 ± 2,5 % vs. −0,5 ± 2,6%, p = 0,476) mit höherer Effektstärke. Fazit: Bei älteren Menschen mit Vorbehalten gegen ein intensives Körpertraining kann WB-EMS zumindest als Option zur (vertebralen) Frakturprophylaxe in Betracht gezogen werden.