EMS training: What is it, Benefits and Risks

EMS electrical muscle stimulation promises maximum results with minimal effort. This method of strength training is becoming increasingly popular and has its origins in physiotherapy. In this special type of training, the muscles are not trained using weights, but stimulated to contract using electrical impulses. With this type of training, muscles should be built up more effectively and faster than with classic training on machines or with your own body weight.

What is EMS training?

Electronic muscle stimulation works with the help of stimulation current. The electrical impulses are regulated by a trainer using a device to which the athletes are connected. At the same time, exercises such as squats or sit-ups are done. With EMS training, each muscle group can be targeted. To ensure that the current also reaches the muscles, the trainees wear special conductive functional clothing over which a wired vest, waist belt and arm and leg cuffs are attached. You can also find further information on EMS training on various websites .

What are the differences to conventional training?

In contrast to conventional training, the training units in EMS training are significantly fewer. A typical training session here lasts only around 20 minutes. EMS training is particularly effective because the electrical stimulation can also reach deeper muscles that are often not addressed at all during normal training. EMS training is particularly healthy because it has a positive effect on many health problems such as back pain or incontinence. Due to the metabolic activity both during and after training, a high work turnover can be achieved and effective weight reduction can be achieved. An increase in muscle mass is noticeable after just a few training sessions.

What does EMS training bring?

EMS training can achieve a sustained reduction in body weight and body fat. In addition, effective relief of back pain is possible. Other positive effects are an increase in trunk stability and an improvement in maximum strength. Due to the high metabolic activity during exercise, a lot of calories can be burned. With EMS training, a reduction in body size can be achieved in both men and women. At the same time, the chest and arms are effectively tightened.

Is EMS training suitable for everyone?

EMS training is not suitable for some groups of people. These primarily include patients with circulatory disorders and people suffering from neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s. Pregnant women should stop doing EMS training from the first months of pregnancy. Persons with pacemakers should have a doctor clarify before starting the training to what extent the training is suitable for them.

What are the dangers and side effects of EMS training?

Although EMS training is a training method that is advocated by many sports scientists, there are also many critical voices.

There are repeated warnings about side effects such as nausea, headaches and circulatory problems, severe muscle soreness or ligament injuries.

In principle, it should be noted that EMS training may only be carried out a maximum of 2 to 4 times a week. With the very intensive training method, there is an increased release of the enzyme creatine kinase . This is broken down by the kidneys. In the worst case, permanently elevated concentrations can even lead to kidney damage.

Crystal Waston MD

Crystal Waston has a degree in Cross Media Production and Publishing. At vital.de she gives everyday tips and deals with topics related to women's health, sport, and nutrition.

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