At ORIEMS FIT, we love bringing you exciting research that sparks curiosity and inspires you to explore new ways to boost your health and fitness.
Today’s blog explores an intriguing study from Germany about how Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) combined with cycling can enhance your endurance performance.
Whether you’re an athlete or simply curious about fitness technology, this blog will break it all down for you in an easy-to-understand way.
(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 Paper Title:
Physiological Responses and Perceived Exertion During Cycling With Superimposed Electromyostimulation
Who Conducted This Research and Where?
This study was conducted by Patrick Wahl and a team of researchers from the German Sport University, located in Cologne, Germany.
This university is renowned for its elite sports research and training methodologies, making it a trusted source in sports science.
When Was This Research Done?
The study was published in 2012 in the prestigious Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.
Why Was This Research Done?
The researchers wanted to find out how adding EMS to cycling could affect endurance performance. Specifically, they explored whether EMS could help athletes achieve greater muscle stimulation and metabolic changes without putting excessive strain on the heart and lungs.
Who Participated in This Study?
- Participants: 10 healthy men in their mid-20s
- Experience: All participants were trained athletes with experience in endurance and strength training.
What Methods Were Used?
- Cycling With and Without EMS: Participants completed three cycling tests: one without EMS, and two with EMS at different frequencies (30 Hz and 85 Hz).
- Measurement Tools: The researchers measured heart rate, lactate levels, blood gases, and perceived exertion during and after cycling.
What Are the Findings?
General Explanation
The study found that cycling with EMS led to greater muscle engagement and metabolic activity compared to cycling alone.
These changes could make EMS a valuable tool for enhancing endurance performance and muscle adaptations.
Specific Evidence
-
Lactate Levels:
- Lactate levels, which indicate muscle activation, were 30% higher at peak effort when EMS was added to cycling.
- Higher lactate levels suggest that EMS increases the use of fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are crucial for endurance and power.
-
Respiratory Exchange Ratio (RER):
- RER, a measure of energy use during exercise, was significantly higher with EMS, indicating enhanced metabolic activity.
-
Creatine Kinase (CK) Levels:
- CK levels, a marker of muscle engagement, increased 50% more after cycling with EMS at 85 Hz compared to cycling without EMS.
-
Perceived Exertion:
- Participants reported higher effort levels during cycling with EMS, showing that EMS challenges the muscles more effectively than cycling alone.
Why EMS Could Be Helpful
This study shows that EMS can:
- Activate hard-to-reach fast-twitch muscle fibers.
- Increase the metabolic demands of your workouts, leading to better endurance.
- Provide a high-intensity muscle stimulus with less strain on your heart and lungs.
How This Study Can Help EMS Device Users
If you’re using an EMS device like the ORIEMS FIT EMS, this research highlights how:
- You can add EMS to low-intensity workouts for a greater muscle-building effect.
- EMS can be a useful tool for athletes recovering from injuries, as it provides a strong stimulus without overloading the cardiovascular system.
- Superimposing EMS on cycling or similar exercises can boost both strength and endurance.
What Do You Think?
Have you ever tried combining EMS with your workouts? Would you like to see how it could boost your endurance? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Research Details
Original Research Title: Physiological Responses and Perceived Exertion During Cycling With Superimposed Electromyostimulation
Simplified Name: How EMS Enhances Cycling Performance and Endurance
Link to Study: Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research is a highly trusted source in sports science, known for its peer-reviewed and evidence-based publications.
About ORIEMS FIT RESEARCH DIGEST
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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.
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