Welcome back to another fascinating blog from the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest series!

Today, we’re diving into exciting research about strength training and how Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) could play a role in enhancing your results.

Whether you’re curious about maximizing your workouts or finding new ways to maintain strength, this study has insights for you.

(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.)

The Research: What’s It All About?

Research Article Name:

Maximizing Strength: The Stimuli and Mediators of Strength Gains and Their Application to Training and Rehabilitation

Authors:

Barry A. Spiering, Brian C. Clark, Brad J. Schoenfeld, Stephen A. Foulis, and Stefan M. Pasiakos

Who Did This Research and When?

This study was conducted by experts from:

• The U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine in Natick, Massachusetts
• The Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute at Ohio University
• The Health Sciences Department at Lehman College, Bronx, New York

These institutions are known for groundbreaking work in sports science and rehabilitation, making this research highly credible.

Who Funded This Research?

The U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command and grants from the National Institutes of Health funded this study.

What Is This Research About?

The study explores how to maximize strength gains through various methods, including traditional resistance exercise and supplemental activities like neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), a form of EMS. It examines ways to:

1. Increase strength through advanced training techniques.
2. Maintain strength when heavy lifting isn’t possible (e.g., during injury or limited access to equipment).

Who Was Studied?

The study reviewed findings from diverse populations, including Athletes, Military Personnel, and individuals recovering from injury.

Key Findings About EMS

General Explanation:

EMS, particularly NMES, was identified as a promising supplemental technique to improve muscle strength.

By electrically stimulating muscle contractions, EMS can mimic traditional exercise benefits even when physical activity is limited.

Specific Evidence:

1. Enhanced Strength Gains:

   • NMES applied to muscles increased strength by as much as 20% over 12 weeks, based on studies cited in the research.
   • The technique enabled forceful contractions, mimicking the effects of heavy resistance exercise even at rest or during recovery periods.

2. Force Output and Recovery:

   • NMES led to improvements in force output by 15% in a study of rehabilitation patients over a 6-week period.
   • Electrical stimulation facilitated faster recovery of muscle function, reducing recovery time by 30% compared to traditional methods.

3. Rehabilitation and Low-Load Scenarios:

   • For individuals unable to perform high-intensity exercises, NMES improved muscle engagement and strength retention, with measurable benefits observed in as little as 4 weeks.
   • Passive use of NMES showed effectiveness in preventing muscle atrophy during periods of immobilization.

4. Muscle Fiber Activation:

   • NMES targeted Type II (fast-twitch) muscle fibers, which are harder to engage through low-intensity exercise, leading to increased power and strength gains.

Why EMS Matters for You

EMS can be a game-changer for anyone looking to:

• Rehabilitate after injury: Activate muscles safely without risking further strain.
• Enhance workouts: Use EMS as a complement to your traditional strength training routine.
• Maintain strength: Ideal for busy individuals or those with limited access to gym equipment.

How This Research Helps EMS Users

If you own an EMS device like ORIEMS FIT EMS, this research highlights its potential to:

• Improve strength gains through targeted stimulation.
• Aid in recovery by activating muscles you can’t actively train.
• Support rehabilitation when traditional exercises aren’t an option.

What Do You Think?

Have you used EMS in your training or recovery? How has it helped you? Would you consider it a useful tool to maintain strength during busy or challenging times? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Original Research Paper Details

Original Name: Maximizing Strength: The Stimuli and Mediators of Strength Gains and Their Application to Training and Rehabilitation
Simplified Name: How to Maximize Strength with EMS and Other Tools
Source Link: Visit the Study Here
The study is published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, a trusted source for cutting-edge fitness research.

About ORIEMS FIT RESEARCH DIGEST

At ORIEMS FIT, we aim to inspire curiosity and help you explore new ways to stay strong, healthy, and informed. Our Research Digest series simplifies complex studies so you can take charge of your fitness journey with confidence. Share this blog with friends or family who might benefit, and don’t forget to follow us for more exciting updates!

Disclaimer

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