Welcome to another edition of the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, where we simplify cutting-edge studies that spark curiosity and support better performance. This time, we’re digging into a study that looks at how electromyostimulation (EMS) affects elite rugby players—specifically their muscle strength, power, and physical readiness for the demands of the sport.
We always include links to the original research at the bottom of each post, often with full PDF access—so you can fact-check, explore more deeply, or start your own research journey.
📚 Research Overview
Study Title:
Effects of Electromyostimulation Training on Muscle Strength and Power of Elite Rugby Players
Authors:
Nicolas Babault, Frédéric Cometti, Benoît Bernardin, Jean-Pierre Pousson, and Charles Chatard
Institutions:
Université de Bourgogne (University of Burgundy), Dijon, France
Published In:
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2007
Link to Study:
Read the full paper on PubMed (PDF)
🔍 What Was This Study About?
This study tested whether a 12-week EMS program could enhance muscle strength and power in elite-level rugby players—without changing their regular training routines. The goal was to see if EMS could be a safe and effective supplement to standard strength training.
🧪 How Was the Research Conducted?
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Participants:
24 elite male rugby players from a national division in France. All athletes had multiple years of strength and conditioning experience. -
Groups:
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EMS Group (n = 12): Completed 3 EMS sessions per week for 12 weeks, applied to quadriceps.
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Control Group (n = 12): Continued standard rugby and strength training without EMS.
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EMS Protocol:
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Duration per session: 12 minutes
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Electrode placement: Vastus lateralis and rectus femoris (thigh muscles)
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Stimulation: Biphasic rectangular pulses, 75 Hz frequency
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Contractions per session: 30 total contractions, held for 4 seconds each
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Rest between contractions: 20 seconds
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📊 Key Findings — What Improved with EMS?
1. Eccentric Quadriceps Strength (Negative Phase Lifting Power)
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EMS Group: +21% increase in eccentric torque
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Control Group: +3% (not significant)
✅ This suggests stronger control during deceleration and injury prevention.
2. Concentric Quadriceps Strength at High Speed (240°/s)
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EMS Group: +30% increase
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Control Group: +4%
✅ Athletes became significantly stronger in explosive movements, useful in tackling, sprinting, and changing direction.
3. Squat Jump Height (Vertical Power)
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EMS Group: +14% improvement
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Control Group: No significant change
✅ This shows EMS boosted explosive leg power, essential for breaking lines or winning high balls.
4. Countermovement Jump (CMJ)
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EMS Group: +10%
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Control Group: No significant change
✅ Improved performance in real-world rugby actions like jumping to catch or contest the ball.
5. 1RM Leg Press and Sprint Speed:
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No significant improvements in 1RM or 10–30 m sprint times.
⚠️ EMS may not replace traditional load-based strength training but works well as a supplement.
💡 What Does This Mean for EMS Users?
This research shows that EMS can significantly increase muscle strength and jumping power in trained rugby athletes—even without changes to their regular workout routines.
For EMS users, especially athletes:
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It may help boost leg strength in-season without extra wear on joints.
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It offers an effective way to maintain or improve muscle capacity during recovery phases or injury rehab.
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EMS can help target underused muscle groups that might be neglected during regular training.
🏆 Why This Study Matters
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Elite Athlete Tested: Participants were top-tier rugby players—not beginners.
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Published in a Peer-Reviewed Journal: Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research is highly regarded in sports science.
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Objective Data: Based on isokinetic testing and biomechanical measurements—not just self-reports.
🔗 Research Source
Title: Effects of Electromyostimulation Training on Muscle Strength and Power of Elite Rugby Players
Link: Access Full Study on RESEARCH GATE (PDF)
🤔 What Do You Think?
Could EMS help you gain an edge in your sport?
Do you use EMS for recovery or conditioning?
Let us know in the comments below—we want to hear your experience!
🔍 About ORIEMS FIT Research Digest
We break down real scientific studies to show how EMS and other wellness tech may benefit recovery, mobility, and performance. No hype—just research made easy.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This post is for informational and recreational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new treatment. For full terms, visit our ORIEMS FIT Disclaimer.
