EMS Training in Review: The Effect on Your Muscles

EMS training is a popular method to complement your physical activity. Especially for people with limited time or those looking for a structured workout routine, EMS offers a new approach to movement in everyday life.

But how can the effects of EMS training be perceived? And what do existing experiences show?

Various studies, including from the German Sport University Cologne, have examined the effects of EMS applications. Participants who regularly integrated EMS impulses into their training routine were observed over several weeks.

The evaluations showed: many participants noticed subjective changes within just a few weeks—such as increased muscle activation or a greater sense of physical performance. EMS training is therefore experienced differently by each individual, and its impact depends heavily on factors such as training frequency, baseline fitness, and lifestyle.

The results suggest that EMS can be a useful complement to regular workouts.


How does muscle activation through EMS work?

Muscle activity results from contractions—that is, the tensing and relaxing of muscles. EMS targets this process directly: external impulses are used to activate specific muscle groups.

Regular EMS use typically involves two to three sessions per week. With this routine, you can gradually build a structured exercise program. In recreational fitness, EMS is seen either as a standalone session or a supplement to existing training.

What do the electrical impulses do to your muscles?

The concept of electrical impulses forms the foundation of EMS training. These impulses trigger targeted muscle contractions—similar to lifting weights. The difference, however, is that with EMS, stimulation comes from external electrodes rather than your own movement.

This focused stimulation allows you to consciously activate specific muscle groups, regardless of physical movement. Bodify users see this as a flexible way to shape their physical activity according to individual needs.

The following points give you further insights into the EMS concept and how it can expand your workout routine:

EMS can be a flexible training option in your everyday life

In a busy schedule, finding time for exercise isn’t always easy. EMS training is seen as a time-efficient method for incorporating physical activity into your day.

We recommend short 25-minute sessions, two to three times per week. Sessions are done at home and require minimal preparation—something many users find especially convenient.
Your pace? That’s entirely up to you.

With EMS, you can target specific muscle groups

Many traditional training methods focus on endurance or full-body movement. But if you want to activate specific muscle groups more directly, you might be looking for additional methods—and this is where EMS comes into play.

With Bodify trainers, you can tailor your sessions to focus on areas like the abs, legs, arms, or glutes. By placing the trainers in the right spot, these areas can be directly stimulated and activated. This lets you decide where to focus your training.

EMS is also used in professional training environments, often as a supplement to existing programs or to target specific muscle responses.

Whether for supporting movement routines, convenient home use, or as a new training method—EMS offers flexibility and can be adapted to your personal fitness goals.

Targeted stimulation triggers muscle activation

EMS training works by sending precise impulses to trigger muscle contractions. These stimuli can result in increased muscle tension, similar to active movement. For many Bodify users, this is an intense yet controlled way to activate their muscles.

That makes EMS a great option for intentionally integrating movement into your day—flexibly and according to your individual needs.