Welcome to another post in the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, where we simplify groundbreaking research to inspire your fitness and recovery journey.

Today’s research takes us to Germany, where scientists explored how Whole-Body Electrical Muscle Stimulation (WB-EMS) can boost athletic performance in amateur ice hockey players.

(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.)

Let’s dive into the details and discover what this research reveals about EMS’s potential to enhance strength, speed, and jumping ability.

What is this research about?

The study, titled "The Influence of WB-EMS-Training on the Performance of Ice Hockey Players of Different Competitive Status," examined how Whole-Body EMS training could improve speed, strength, and jumping power when combined with regular ice hockey practice.

Who conducted this research and where?

• Researchers: Elisabeth Schuhbeck, Christof Birkenmaier, and colleagues.
• Institutions:
  • Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany—a world-renowned institution known for advanced medical and sports science research.
  • Aktiva Medici Rehabilitation Center, Prien am Chiemsee, Germany—a center specializing in rehabilitation and sports recovery.

These researchers bring expertise in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation, making the study credible and thorough.

Who participated in the study?

The study involved 30 male amateur ice hockey players aged 18 to 48 years from two competitive leagues:

• District League: More experienced players.
• Hobby League: Recreational players.

Participants trained 2–3 times weekly, playing regular games, and performed WB-EMS sessions once a week.

What did the researchers measure?

The study focused on:

1. Vertical Jump Power and Height: Assessed using ground force plates.
2. 10-Meter Sprint Time: Measured with photocell sensors.
3. Isokinetic Strength at Two Velocities (60°/s and 300°/s): Measured with specialized equipment to evaluate knee extensor strength.
4. Subjective Performance: Players rated their perceived performance improvements via questionnaires.

What did they find?

General Explanation of Positive Findings

WB-EMS training significantly improved jumping power, sprint speed, and maximum strength in ice hockey players.

These results demonstrate that EMS can complement traditional sports training to enhance physical performance.

Specific Evidence Supporting EMS

1. Jumping Power:

   • WB-EMS training increased jumping power by 5.9% in one group and 4.4% in another after 12 weeks.
   • In comparison, during regular training without WB-EMS, jumping power decreased in both groups.

2. 10-Meter Sprint Time:

   • WB-EMS reduced sprint times by 6.3% (0.1 seconds faster) in one group and 3.7% in another.
   • Without WB-EMS, sprint times remained the same or worsened.

3. Maximum Isokinetic Strength:

   • At 60°/s: Strength improved by 24.6% (54.86 Nm) in one group and 5.7% (11.33 Nm) in another.
   • At 300°/s: Strength increased by 6.1% (7.94 Nm) in one group and 7.9% (9.61 Nm) in another.

4. Self-Assessment:

   • Players reported improvements in stability, strength, and fitness, with some also feeling more confident on the ice.

Why could EMS be helpful for you?

EMS offers a range of benefits that can complement regular sports or fitness training:

• Enhances Speed and Power: Faster sprint times and higher jumps can improve performance in sports requiring explosive movements.
• Increases Strength: Targeted muscle activation helps build strength more effectively.
• Time-Efficient Training: EMS sessions lasted just 20 minutes per week in this study but delivered measurable results.

How can this help EMS device users?

Whether you’re an athlete or a fitness enthusiast:

• Incorporating EMS into your training routine can accelerate strength and power gains.
• It’s ideal for targeting specific muscle groups or adding variety to your workouts.
• WB-EMS provides a non-invasive way to boost performance, even with limited time.

Where can I read the research?

Research Paper Name: The Influence of WB-EMS-Training on the Performance of Ice Hockey Players of Different Competitive Status
Simplified Name: How WB-EMS Enhances Ice Hockey Performance
Link to Study: Click here to access the full study

This research was published in Frontiers in Physiology, a trusted and peer-reviewed journal specializing in exercise science.

What do you think?

Have you tried EMS for improving your performance?

Do you think EMS could help in your favorite sport or workout? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you.

About ORIEMS FIT Research Digest

At ORIEMS FIT, we aim to inspire curiosity and empower our readers with accessible, evidence-based insights. By sharing the latest research, we help you explore how innovative fitness technologies can transform your training. Share this post with friends or family who might find it helpful, and start your own research journey today!

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational and recreational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. For full details on our disclaimer, visit here.