Welcome to another edition of the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, where we simplify groundbreaking studies to empower your fitness journey.
Today, we delve into a remarkable review examining the potential of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to enhance strength and athletic performance.
(Scroll to the end of each post to find a link to the original study, often with full PDFs—perfect for building your research collection.)
What Is This Research About?
Research Title: Is high-frequency neuromuscular electrical stimulation a suitable tool for muscle performance improvement in both healthy humans and athletes?
Authors: Julien Gondin, Patrick J. Cozzone, David Bendahan
Published: European Journal of Applied Physiology (2011)
This review evaluates how NMES—a method involving electrical impulses to stimulate muscles—affects muscle strength, fatigue, and performance in both healthy individuals and athletes.
Who Conducted This Research?
This study was conducted at the Centre de Résonance Magnétique Biologique et Médicale in Marseille, France.
Known for its advanced research in muscle and nerve function, this center is affiliated with top European researchers.
Why Was This Research Conducted?
The researchers aimed to determine whether NMES can serve as a valuable addition to traditional strength training methods, especially for improving isometric (static) and dynamic (moving) muscle strength.
Who Were the Participants?
The review included studies involving healthy individuals aged 18–35 and athletes across various sports like basketball, swimming, and rugby.
What Did the Researchers Find?
General Findings
NMES is effective in increasing isometric muscle strength (strength during static positions) and improving the recruitment of fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are essential for explosive power and speed.
However, the results for dynamic strength and endurance were mixed unless NMES was paired with voluntary exercises like plyometrics.
Specific Positive Findings
-
Isometric Strength Gains:
- Studies showed increases in quadriceps strength ranging from 9% to 48%, depending on the protocol.
- Strength improvements lasted up to 4 weeks after stopping NMES training.
-
Explosive Power:
- Combining NMES with basketball or plyometric training improved vertical jump height by up to 17%.
-
Reduced Training Time:
- NMES sessions (15–20 minutes) delivered similar strength benefits as traditional training lasting 30–60 minutes.
-
Cross-Education Effect:
- NMES improved the strength of both stimulated and non-stimulated limbs, though gains were higher in the trained limb.
Why Could NMES Be Helpful?
- Unique Fiber Activation: NMES targets fast-twitch muscle fibers directly, which are often underused in traditional low-intensity workouts.
- Enhanced Recovery: NMES may reduce muscle fatigue and improve endurance when combined with proper rest periods.
- Complementary Tool: It’s most effective when used alongside traditional resistance training, not as a replacement.
How Does This Study Help EMS Users?
For EMS device users, this research highlights:
- Strength Benefits: Structured NMES programs can significantly improve muscle strength and function.
- Time Efficiency: Short sessions provide results comparable to longer traditional workouts.
- Versatility: NMES can be adapted for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals recovering from muscle disuse.
What Do You Think?
Could NMES be the key to achieving your fitness goals faster? Would you try combining it with your workouts? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your experiences!
Research Details:
Original Article Name: Is high-frequency neuromuscular electrical stimulation a suitable tool for muscle performance improvement in both healthy humans and athletes?
Simplified Title: How NMES Enhances Strength: New Insights
Link to Study: Access the research here
About ORIEMS FIT Research Digest
At ORIEMS FIT, we aim to inspire curiosity and empower you with the latest science. Our Research Digest simplifies studies on EMS, health, and fitness, so you can stay informed and make better choices for your journey. Share this blog with friends or family—it could be just what they need to start their EMS journey!
Explore how EMS is being studied for strength, recovery, mobility & more! See Global Research by Top Scientists, Click Here
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational and recreational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new treatments. For full details, visit ORIEMS FIT Disclaimer.
