Welcome to another installment of the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, where we uncover fascinating studies to inspire curiosity and empower your fitness journey.

Today, we dive into a Korean study that examines whether Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS), when added to back exercises, can improve back strength and endurance more effectively than exercises alone.

(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.)

Research Article Name:

Effect of Superimposed Electromyostimulation on Back Extensor Strengthening: A Pilot Study

Authors: Jae Hyeon Park, Kwan Sik Seo, and Shi-Uk Lee

Who Did This Research and When?

This research was conducted in 2016 at the prestigious Seoul National University, South Korea. Known globally for its excellence in medicine and research, Seoul National University is a leader in innovation and academic prestige in Asia. The researchers were affiliated with the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at the university and its associated hospitals.

What Was This Research About?

The study focused on the back extensor muscles, which are critical for posture and preventing back pain. It aimed to determine whether adding EMS to back exercises could:

1. Improve back strength.
2. Increase endurance.

The researchers wanted to find out if EMS could amplify the benefits of traditional exercises.

Who Was Involved?

• Participants: 20 healthy men, aged 20–29, who had no history of back pain in the past year.
• Groups:
  1. EMS Group: Performed exercises with EMS.
  2. Sham Stimulation Group (SS): Performed exercises with very low EMS (not effective stimulation).

What Methods Did They Use?

• EMS Application:

  • Electrodes were placed on the back muscles (L2 and L4 regions).
  • EMS was set to the highest tolerable intensity for the EMS group.

• Exercises:

  • Back extensions on a Swiss ball, 10 repetitions per set, 2 sets per day, 5 days per week for 2 weeks.
  • EMS was applied during back extensions for 10 seconds per repetition, followed by a 20-second rest.

• Measurements:

  • Back Strength: Measured with a dynamometer.
  • Endurance: Assessed with the Sorensen test, which measures how long a participant can hold their back straight in a horizontal position.

What Did They Find?

1. Back Strength Improved More with EMS

• Participants in the EMS group increased their peak torque (strength) at:
  • 60° per second: From 289.6 N·m to 369.7 N·m (27.6% improvement).
  • 180° per second: From 252.4 N·m to 332.5 N·m (31.7% improvement).
• The SS group also improved, but the increases were smaller (16.8% and 22.1%, respectively).

2. Endurance Gains Were Greater with EMS

• The EMS group’s Sorensen test times increased by 31.6% (from 122.0 to 160.6 seconds).
• The SS group improved by only 14.7% (from 148.9 to 170.8 seconds).

Why Does This Matter?

• Stronger Back, Faster: EMS combined with exercises led to greater strength and endurance improvements in just 2 weeks.
• Efficient Training: EMS can help you maximize results in a shorter time compared to exercises alone.

How Can This Help EMS Device Users?

If you’re using an EMS device like ORIEMS FIT, here’s how this research can apply:

1. Stronger Back: Use EMS while performing back exercises to boost strength faster.
2. Better Endurance: Regular EMS sessions can improve your back muscles’ stamina.
3. Convenient Recovery: EMS helps stimulate muscles without heavy lifting, reducing strain.

Research Paper Simplified Name:

Does Adding EMS to Back Exercises Work Better?

Link to Study: Effect of Superimposed Electromyostimulation on Back Extensor Strengthening

The study was published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, a highly regarded American health and fitness journal. This source is trusted by athletes and researchers worldwide for its high-quality studies.

What Do You Think?

Would you try adding EMS to your back workouts?
Have you used EMS before? Share your experience with us!

We’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Your thoughts might inspire others to try EMS!

Join the Conversation

This post is part of the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, where we simplify complex studies to help you stay informed and inspired. Share this blog with your friends or family who might benefit, and let’s grow a community of curious learners together!

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 our full disclaimer, visit: ORIEMS FIT Disclaimer.