Whole-body Electromyostimulation Research Articles

Whole-Body Electromyostimulation Training for Body Composition, Muscle Strength, and General Health Outcomes: A Brief Review of the Benefits and Side Effects

ABSTRACT Whole-body electromyostimulation training (WB-EMS) has gained increasing popularity as a training method in recent years. This brief review aims to summarize the potential benefits and risks of WB-EMS in many different populations and purposes. The findings of this review suggest that WB-EMS is particularly effective for improving muscle mass and strength outcomes in untrained people. However, more high-quality studies are needed to determine its long-term effects and to optimize its use in different populations and training contexts. For general health-related parameters, WB-EMS may be a feasible and time-efficient exercise strategy combined with proper energy or protein intake throughout longer periods.

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).

Effects of Adjuvant Exercise and Nutrition Therapy on Muscle Fibre Biomechanics in Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients.

Patients with aggressive cancer, e.g., gastrointestinal cancer, are prone (≥50% chance) to developing cancer cachexia (CC). Little is known about the effects of CC on the biomechanical function of muscle. A promising prevention strategy was found in the form of a multi-modal therapy combining mild resistance exercise (e.g., whole-body electro-myostimulation, WB-EMS) and a protein-rich diet. In a previous study of ours, this was effective in counteracting the loss of muscle mass, yet a systematic and comprehensive assessment of active and passive single muscle fibre functions was so far absent. This pilot study investigated the biomechanical function of single muscle fibres (rectus abdominis) from the biopsies of conventionally treated (pre-)cachectic cancer ((pre-)CC) patients (m = 9), those receiving the multi-modal therapy comprising WB-EMS training and protein-rich nutrition (m = 3), and a control group (m = 5). Our findings not only align with previous findings showing the absolute force loss in CC that is accelerated by atrophy but also speak in favour of a different, potentially energy- and Ca2+-homeostasis-related effect that compromises muscle contraction (F ~0.9 mN vs. F ~0.6 mN in control patients). However, myofibrillar Ca2+ sensitivity and the quality of contraction were unaltered (pCa50: 5.6-5.8). Single fibres from the (pre-)CC patients receiving WB-EMS training and protein supplementation were significantly more compliant (p < 0.001 at ≥130% of resting length L0). Those fibres displayed a similar softness to the ones from the control patients (axial compliance ~15 m/N at ≥130% L0), while single fibres from the patients with (developing) cachexia were significantly stiffer (axial compliance ~7 m/N, p < 0.001 at ≥130% L0). Adjuvant multi-modal therapy (WB-EMS training and nutritional support) contributes to maintaining the axial compliance of single fibres and potentially improves the quality of life for patients at risk of developing CC.

Revised contraindications for the use of non-medical WB-electromyostimulation. Evidence-based German consensus recommendations.

Whole-body electromyostimulation has proven to be a highly effective alternative to conventional resistance-type exercise training. However, due to adverse effects in the past, very extensive contraindications have been put in place for the commercial, non-medical WB-EMS market. Considering recent positive innovations e.g., federal regulation, mandatory trainer education, revised guidelines, and new scientific studies on WB-EMS application, we believe that a careful revision of the very restrictive contraindications on WB-EMS is needed. This applies all the more because many cohorts with limited options for conventional exercise have so far been excluded. During a first meeting of an evidence-based consensus process, stakeholders from various backgrounds (e.g., research, education, application) set the priorities for revising the contraindications. We decided to focus on four categories of absolute contraindications: "Arteriosclerosis, arterial circulation disorders", "Diabetes mellitus" (DM), "Tumor and cancer" (TC), "Neurologic diseases, neuronal disorders, epilepsy". Based on scientific studies, quality criteria, safety aspects and benefit/risk assessment of the category, DM and TC were moved to the relative contraindication catalogue, while arteriosclerosis/arterial circulation disorders and neurologic diseases/neuronal disorders/epilepsy were still considered as absolute contraindications. While missing evidence suggests maintaining the status of neurologic diseases/neuronal disorders as an absolute contraindication, the risk/benefit-ratio does not support the application of WB-EMS in people with arteriosclerosis/arterial circulation diseases. Despite these very cautious modifications, countries with less restrictive structures for non-medical WB-EMS should consider our approach critically before implementing the present revisions. Considering further the largely increased amount of WB-EMS trials we advice regular updates of the present contraindication list.

The Impact of Baseline Pain Intensity on the Effectiveness of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) for Nonspecific Chronic Back Pain.

Recent clinical studies confirmedthat whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) training is a safe and time-efficient therapeutic method for patients with nonspecific chronic back pain (NSCBP). However, significant variations in initial pain intensity among subjects in these studies have been observed. This study aims to determine if patients with differing initial pain intensities experience varying degrees of benefit from WB-EMS and to assess the overall correlation between initial pain levels and pain reduction. Pain intensity datasets from two studies were combined. The pooled data included 121 NSCBP patients (38 males and 83 females) with an average age of 55.1 years (±11.8 years). Data was categorized by baseline pain intensity on the numeric rating scale (NRS) into seven groups: 0 to 2, >2 to 3, >3 to 4, >4 to 5, >5 to 6, >6 to 7, and >7. Both absolute and relative changes were analyzed. Additionally, a Spearman rho correlation test was performed on the entire dataset to evaluate the relationship between initial pain level and pain reduction. Significant improvements were noted across all NRS11 categories, with strong effect sizes (p) in all classes above 2, ranging from 0.56 to 0.90. The >7 category exhibited the highest rate of clinically significant changes (80%) and an average improvement of 3.72 points. The overall group from >1 to 10 showed an average improvement of 1.33 points, with 37% of the participants experiencing clinically significant improvements. The Spearman rho correlation test revealed a moderate positive relationship between initial pain level and pain reduction (r_s = 0.531, p < 0.001), indicating that, generally, higher initial pain levels are associated with greater pain reduction. The findings support the hypothesis that NSCBP patients with higher baseline NRS values benefit more substantially from WB-EMS. Those with NRS values above 7 show the greatest improvement and highest rate of clinical significance. The overall positive correlation between initial pain intensity and pain reduction further underscores the efficacy of WB-EMS in managing NSCBP across different pain intensities.

Review on Weight Loss Interventions that Can Prevent Muscle Mass Loss in Sarcopenic Obesity

Objectives: The objective of this study was to review clinical studies conducted over the last ten years that investigated weight or fat loss interventions that can preserve muscle or fat-free mass in Sarcopenic obesity Methods: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Research Information Sharing Service (RISS) and Korea Studies Information Service (KISS) were searched for Randomized clinical trials that had investigated all-type of interventions on the management of sarcopenic obesity from October 2013 to September 2023.Results: A total of 14 studies met all the inclusion criteria. Interventions that increase muscle mass while reducing body fat at the same time included resistance training (including using elastic bands) and whole-body electromyostimulation(WB-EMS) in exercise intervention and Hypocaloric high-protein diet in nutritional intervention, exercise and nutritional combined intervention, and combination intervention of electrical acupuncture and amino acid supplementation. Among them, the most positive method of changing the body composition in sarcopenic obesity was the electric acupuncture and amino acid supplements.Conclusion: Varying diagnostic criteria and management interventions for sarcopenic obesity in the included studies made it hard to maintain homogeneity across the studies. Well-defined criteria for diagnostic sarcopenic obesity should be considered. In addition, since all of the interventions examined did not show sufficient clinical effectiveness, follow-up studies are needed to confirm effective interventions for sarcopenic obesity patients in the future.

Effects of whole-body electromyostimulation with different impulse intensity on blood pressure changes in hyper- and normotensive overweight people. A pilot study.

Hypertension is a frequent condition in untrained middle-aged to older adults, who form the core group of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) applicants. So far, the acute effects of varying impulse intensities on blood pressure responses have not been evaluated in normo- and hypertensive people. Thirteen hypertensive and twelve normotensive overweight WB-EMS novices, 40-70years old, conducted the same WB-EMS protocol (20min, bipolar, 85Hz, 350µs, 4s impulse-4s rest; combined with easy movements) with increasing impulse intensity (low, moderate, advanced) per session. Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) as determined by automatic sphygmomanometry rose significantly (p < .001) from rest, 5min pre-WB-EMS to immediately pre-WB-EMS assessment. Of importance, a 20-min WB-EMS application does not increase MAP further. In detail, maximum individual MAP does not exceed 128mmHg (177mmHg systolic or 110mmHg diastolic) in any case. Two-min post-WB-EMS, MAP was significantly lower (p = .016) compared to immediately pre-WB-EMS. In contrast, heart rate increased significantly from immediately pre to immediately post-exercise (p < .001), though individual peak values did not exceed 140 beats/min-1 and heart rate decreased rapidly (p < .001) post-exercise. No significant differences in MAP and HR kinetics were observed for impulse intensity categories or hypertensive status. In summary, largely independently of impulse intensity and status, the acute effect of WB-EMS on MAP in novice applicants seem to be largely negligible. Although definite evidence might not have been provided by the present study, we conclude that hypertension, at least under treatment, should not be considered as a barrier for WB-EMS application in moderately old or older cohorts.

Non-Athletic Cohorts Enrolled in Longitudinal Whole-Body Electromyostimulation Trials-An Evidence Map.

Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) can be considered as a time-efficient, joint-friendly, and highly customizable training technology that attracts a wide range of users. The present evidence map aims to provide an overview of different non-athletic cohorts addressed in WB-EMS research. Based on a comprehensive systematic search according to PRISMA, eighty-six eligible longitudinal trials were identified that correspond with our eligibility criteria. In summary, WB-EMS research sufficiently covers all adult age categories in males and females. Most cohorts addressed (58%) were predominately or exclusively overweight/obese, and in about 60% of them, diseases or conditions were inclusion criteria for the trials. Cohorts specifically enrolled in WB-EMS trials suffer from cancer/neoplasm (n = 7), obesity (n = 6), diabetes mellitus (n = 5), metabolic syndrome (n = 2), nervous system diseases (n = 2), chronic heart failure (n = 4), stroke (n = 1), peripheral arterial diseases (n = 2), knee arthrosis (n = 1), sarcopenia (n = 3), chronic unspecific low back pain (n = 4), and osteopenia (n = 3). Chronic kidney disease was an eligibility criterion in five WB-EMS trials. Finally, three studies included only critically ill patients, and two further studies considered frailty as an inclusion criterion. Of importance, no adverse effects of the WB-EMS intervention were reported. In summary, the evidence gaps in WB-EMS research were particular evident for cohorts with diseases of the nervous and cerebrovascular system.

The Effect of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation Program on Physical Performance and Selected Cardiometabolic Markers in Obese Young Females.

Background and Objectives: Whole-body electromyostimulation is under investigation as a potential aid for obesity-related health problems, supplementing a comprehensive, evidence-based obesity management strategy that includes lifestyle, diet, and exercise. The study investigated the impact of a whole-body electromyostimulation training program on physical performance and cardiometabolic markers in young obese females. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight obese females, aged over 18 years with BMI over 30 and body fat over 28% and no underlying health conditions or medication, were divided into a whole-body electromyostimulation group (15 participants) and a control group (13 participants). The whole-body electromyostimulation program lasted 12 weeks, with two 20 min sessions weekly, using bipolar, rectangular current. Assessments pre and post intervention included body composition, blood pressure, lipid profile, C-reactive protein levels, maximal oxygen consumption, and jumping and sprint performance. Two-way ANOVA and t-tests were used for analysis. Results: Statistical analysis revealed significant (group × time) interactions for body composition, systolic blood pressure, maximal oxygen consumption, jumping and sprint performance, and plasma levels of lipids and C-reactive protein. Post hoc analyses for the whole-body electromyostimulation group indicated improvements in body composition indices (p < 0.01), systolic blood pressure (p = 0.003), maximal oxygen consumption (p = 0.010), and both jumping and 30 m sprint performance (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively) after the intervention. Furthermore, plasma levels of lipids (p < 0.01) and C-reactive protein (p = 0.002) showed significant improvements following the training program. In contrast, no significant changes were observed for these variables in the control group. Conclusions: A 12-week whole-body electromyostimulation program significantly improved body composition (skeletal muscle mass, body mass index, body fat, and waist circumference), physical performance (maximal oxygen consumption, jumping and sprint performance), and certain cardiometabolic (plasma level of lipids) and inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein) in obese young women. Further research is needed to explore the broader effects of whole-body electromyostimulation on physical and cardiometabolic health.

Exercise-induced changes in plasma S-Klotho levels are associated with the obtained enhancements of heart rate variability in sedentary middle-aged adults: the FIT-AGEING study.

The shed form of the Klotho protein (S-Klotho) is considered a biomarker of longevity, but it is still unknown whether the levels are related to heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV); both of them greatly influenced by the ageing process, physical fitness, exercise, and health status. This study aimed (i) to investigate the association between S-Klotho plasma levels with HR and HRV parameters and (ii) to examine the association of exercise-induced changes in S-Klotho and those obtained in HR and HRV parameters after a 12-week exercise intervention in sedentary middle-aged adults. Sixty-six sedentary middle-aged adults participated in this study (50% women; 45-65 years old). Participants were randomized into 4 groups: (a) a control group (no exercise), (b) a physical activity recommendation from the World Health Organization group, (c) a high-intensity interval training group, and (d) a high-intensity interval training group adding whole-body electromyostimulation. S-Klotho plasma levels, HR, and HRV parameters (SDNN, RMSSD, high frequency, stress score, and sympathetic/parasympathetic ratio) were measured. At baseline, S-Klotho plasma levels were not related to HR and HRV parameters. After the intervention, exercise-induced changes in S-Klotho plasma levels were positively associated with changes in SDNN (β=0.261; R2=0.102; p=0.014) and negatively related to changes in stress score and sympathetic/parasympathetic ratio (all β=-0.257; R2 ranges between 0.092 and 0.131; all p<0.020). Our study suggests that higher S-Klotho plasma levels are related to increased vagal influence and reduced sympathetic tone in the autonomic nervous system in sedentary middle-aged adults after different training programs. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: CT03334357.

Acute Effects of Combining Whole-Body Electromyostimulation with Resistance Training in Active Women.

Strength training elicits benefits both in performance and on a psychological level in women, such as increased muscle strength and improved self-esteem. Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) could be a training strategy for enhancing muscular strength. The aim of this study was to assess the acute effects of a single session of WB-EMS superimposed over classic resistance training on isometric strength, endurance strength and flexibility. Furthermore, the safety of the protocol was assessed by monitoring the levels of creatine kinase (CK) 48 h after the training protocol was completed. Sixteen active women (aged 22.06 ± 1.88) were randomly assigned to an experimental group (EG) (n = 8) and a control group (CG) (n = 8). The EG performed four sets of 12 repetitions of three strength exercises with superimposed WB-EMS, while the CG performed the same protocol without WB-EMS. RM-ANOVA showed a significant time*group interaction on posterior kinetic chain extensors' mean and peak strength in the EG (F(1,14) = 10.036; p = 0.007; and F(1,14) = 20.719; p < 0.001; respectively). A significant time*group interaction was found in the sit and reach test for the EG (F(1,14) = 10.362; p = 0.006). Finally, ANOVA performed on the CK levels showed no significant difference between the groups (F(1,14) = 0.715; p = 0.412). WB-EMS training led to an immediate improvement in strength performance and flexibility, and this protocol was shown to be safe in terms of CK levels, 48 h after completing the training protocol.

Comparison of the effects of core stability and whole-body electromyostimulation exercises on kyphosis angle and core muscle endurance of inactive people with hyper kyphosis: A quasi-experimental pre-post study

ObjectiveRestoring the degree of kyphosis to be consistent with good sagittal alignment of the spine is a key concern. This study aimed to compare the effect of core stability exercises (CSE) versus whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) and a combined program (PLUS) on kyphosis angle and core muscle endurance in sedentary individuals with hyperkyphosis. DesignA quasi-experimental single group pre-post study. SettingsLaboratory of corrective exercise. Participantsseventy-five untrained men (28.9 ± 5.3 years) with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Main outcome measuresA flexible ruler was used to measure the angle of kyphosis and McGill's test was used to evaluate core stability. ResultsThe results of the post hoc test demonstrated that the kyphosis angle was improved in the WB-EMS and PLUS groups compared to that in the CG (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed among the three groups(P > 0.05). In the post-test, core stability was significantly improved in CSE, WB-EMS and PLUS groups compared to that in the CG. ConclusionsThe WB-EMS and PLUS protocols as new training methods seem to be effective in changing posture parameters and correcting postural deformities, including kyphosis. Therefore, these protocols along with other rehabilitation programs can be used to correct kyphosis and improve core muscle endurance.

Physical exercise improves memory in sedentary middle-aged adults: Are these exercise-induced benefits associated with S-Klotho and 1,25-dihydroxivitamin D? The FIT-AGEING randomized controlled trial.

We aimed to investigate the effect of three types of exercise interventions on memory (i.e., immediate memory (IM), long-term memory (LTM), and recognition). We also investigated whether exercise-induced changes in circulating S-Klotho and 1,25-dihydroxivitamin D (1,25(OH)2 D) levels were related to those observed in memory in healthy middle-aged sedentary adults. A 12-week randomized controlled trial was performed with a parallel-group design. Seventy-four participants (45-65 years old: 53% women) were randomly assigned to (1) no exercise (control) group, (2) concurrent training based on the international physical activity recommendations (PAR) group, (3) high-intensity interval training (HIIT) group, or (4) HIIT plus whole-body electromyostimulation (HIIT-EMS) group. Memory outcomes were assessed using the Wechsler Memory Scale-third edition. S-Klotho plasma levels were determined according to a solid-phase sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit while 1,25(OH)2 D plasma levels were measured using a DiaSorin-Liaison immunochemiluminometric analyzer. IM-Verbal Paired Associates (IM-VPA) and IM-Logical Memory (IM-LM) were improved in both the HIIT and HIIT-EMS groups compared with the control group (all p ≤ 0.045). Exercise-induced changes in S-Klotho plasma levels were positively associated with those observed in IM, LTM, and recognition (all p ≤ 0.007), whereas exercise-induced changes in 1,25(OH)2 D plasma levels were directly related to changes in IM and LTM (all p ≤ 0.048). In conclusion, a 12-week HIIT intervention with or without WB-EMS seems to be the most effective exercise program to improve IM. The significant and positive associations between exercise-induced changes in S-Klotho and 1,25(OH)2 D levels with those observed in memory outcomes suggest that these factors may be potentially related to exercise-induced improvements of memory in middle-aged adults.

Differential Effects of Very-Low-Volume Exercise Modalities on Telomere Length, Inflammation, and Cardiometabolic Health in Obese Metabolic Syndrome Patients: A Subanalysis from Two Randomized Controlled Trials.

Oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation are features of metabolic syndrome (MetS) that can contribute to the shortening of telomere length (TL), a marker of cellular ageing. Research indicates that exercise can positively influence MetS-associated conditions and TL. However, the effects of low-volume exercise types on TL are still unknown. We investigated the impact of very-low-volume high-intensity interval training (LV-HIIT), one-set resistance training (1-RT), and whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) on TL, inflammation, and cardiometabolic indices in 167 MetS patients. Data were derived from two randomized controlled trials where patients were allocated to an exercise group (2 sessions/week, for 12 weeks) or a control group. All groups received standard-care nutritional weight loss counselling. TL was determined as the T/S ratio (telomere to single-copy gene amount). All groups significantly reduced body weight (p < 0.05), but the T/S-ratio (p < 0.001) only increased with LV-HIIT. OS-related inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein) only decreased (p < 0.05) following LV-HIIT. The MetS severity z-score improved with LV-HIIT (p < 0.001) and 1-RT (p = 0.014) but not with WB-EMS. In conclusion, very-low-volume exercise modalities have differential effects on telomeres, inflammation, and cardiometabolic health. Only LV-HIIT but not strength-based low-volume exercise increased TL in MetS patients, presumably due to superior effects on OS-related inflammatory markers.

Running with whole-body electromyostimulation improves physiological determinants of endurance performance – a randomized control trial

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the physiological and metabolic adaptations to an eight-week running intervention with whole-body electromyostimulation (wbEMS) compared to running without wbEMS.MethodsIn a randomized controlled trial (RCT), 59 healthy participants (32 female/ 27 male, 41 ± 7 years, rel.V̇O2max 40.2 ± 7.4 ml/min/kg) ran twice weekly à 20 min for eight weeks either with a wbEMS suit (EG) or without wbEMS (control group, CG). Before and after the intervention, (i) rel.V̇O2max, heart rate and time to exhaustion were recorded with an incremental step test with an incremental rate of 1.20 km/h every 3 min. They were interpreted at aerobic and (indirect) anaerobic lactate thresholds as well as at maximum performance. (ii) Resting metabolic rate (RQ) as well as (iii) body composition (%fat) were assessed.ResultsFollowing the intervention, V̇O2max was significantly enhanced for both groups (EG ∆13 ± 3%, CG ∆9 ± 3%). Velocity was elevated at lactate thresholds and maximum running speed (EG ∆3 ± 1%, CG ∆2 ± 1%); HRmax was slightly reduced by -1 beat/min. No significant changes were observed for time until exhaustion and lactate. RQ was significantly enhanced following both trainings by + 7%. %fat was reduced for both groups (EG ∆-11 ± 3%, CG ∆-16 ± 5%), without any changes in body mass. Results did not differ significantly between groups.ConclusionsBoth interventions had a positive impact on aerobic power. The rightward shift of the time-velocity graph points towards improved endurance performance. The effects of wbEMS are comparable to those after high-intensity training and might offer a time-efficient alternative to affect physiological and metabolic effects.Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trials Register, ID DRKS00026827, date 10/26/21.

Influence of a long-term WB-EMS intervention on parameters of body composition and physical performance among individuals of different age decades between 19 and 81 years

Lifelong fitness training plays an essential role in building and maintaining health. Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) is a time-efficient training method that could be used as an adequate training intervention for different persons due to the intensive, involuntary contraction of the musculature and the resulting increases in muscular performance. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate if WB-EMS has positive effects on body composition and physical performance parameters of individuals of different age decades. Subjects from age decades 20-80 years participated in a 24-week WB-EMS training intervention. PRE and POST diagnostics of trunk extension and flexion, knee extension and flexion, hand grip strength, skeletal muscle mass (SMM) and body fat were performed on three consecutive days and the daily maximum values were summarized as the total mean value and were used for the descriptive data interpretation. Strength parameters were summarized in an unweighted additive index, the muscular change index (MCI). Regarding the results obtained by using the MCI, remarkable increases were observed in participants from all decades (20: +12.02%; 30: +6.59%; 40: +6.85%; 50: +3.96%; 60: +10.95%; 70: +20.26%; 80: +20.86%). Therefore, WB-EMS seems to be a time-efficient and adequate form of training that can be conducted to enhance muscular performance at different ages.

Acute effects of Whole Body Electrostimulation combined with stretching on lower back pain.

Data from recent studies suggest that whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) is a time-effective and tailored intervention for chronic lower back pain (CLBP). The aim of this non-randomized controlled study was to compare the efficacy of a WB-EMS training and the association between WB-EMS specific training with passive stretching (Well Back System, [WBS]) on CLBP. Forty patients with CLBP, 43-81 years old, were assigned to one of the two groups: WB-EMS (n=20) and WB-EMS+WBS (n=20). Both groups completed 12 sessions (8 weeks) WB-EMS protocol (2 x 20 minutes/week). The second group performed core-specific exercises with WB-EMS plus 6 extra stretching sessions (30 minutes each). Primary study endpoints were based on changes on visual analogue scale (VAS) and changes on Oswestry Low Back Disability Questionnaire (ODI). Secondary study endpoints were percentage changes of maximum trunk flexion (Sit & Reach, [SR]) and changes on assumption of painkillers. Both interventions significantly improved VAS, ODI and SR values (p range: 0.04; <0.001). However, the change of VAS (-46% vs -17%, p<0.001), ODI (-53% vs -17%, p<0.001), and SR (+7 vs +3 cm, p=0.001) were significantly higher in the WB-EMS+WBS group compared to the WB-EMS group. The working method with WB-EMS+WBS can be a joint-friendly, individualized form to decrease CLBP.

Systemic Lupus, Metabolic Syndrome, Cardiac Disease, and Peripheral Artery Disease

Systemic Lupus, Metabolic Syndrome, Cardiac Disease, and Peripheral Artery Disease

Acute effects of high-intensity functional training with or without whole-body electromyostimulation on serum irisin and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in overweight individuals

Acute effects of high-intensity functional training with or without whole-body electromyostimulation on serum irisin and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in overweight individuals

Position statement and updated international guideline for safe and effective whole-body electromyostimulation training-the need for common sense in WB-EMS application.

Whole-Body Electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) is a training technology that enables simultaneous stimulation of all the main muscle groups with a specific impulse intensity for each electrode. The corresponding time-efficiency and joint-friendliness of WB-EMS may be particularly attractive for people unable or unmotivated to conduct (intense) conventional training protocols. However, due to the enormous metabolic and musculoskeletal impact of WB-EMS, particular attention must be paid to the application of this technology. In the past, several scientific and newspaper articles reported severe adverse effects of WB-EMS. To increase the safety of commercial non-medical WB-EMS application, recommendations "for safe and effective whole-body electromyostimulation" were launched in 2016. However, new developments and trends require an update of these recommendations to incorporate more international expertise with demonstrated experience in the application of WB-EMS. The new version of these consensus-based recommendations has been structured into 1) "general aspects of WB-EMS", 2) "preparation for training", recommendations for the 3) "WB-EMS application" itself and 4) "safety aspects during and after training". Key topics particularly addressed are 1) consistent and close supervision of WB-EMS application, 2) mandatory qualification of WB-EMS trainers, 3) anamnesis and corresponding consideration of contraindications prior to WB-EMS, 4) the participant's proper preparation for the session, 5) careful preparation of the WB-EMS novice, 6) appropriate regeneration periods between WB-EMS sessions and 7) continuous interaction between trainer and participant at a close physical distance. In summary, we are convinced that the present guideline will contribute to greater safety and effectiveness in the area of non-medical commercial WB-EMS application.