Science

One of the most frequently asked questions, besides how EMS training works, is whether EMS training has been examined in studies. Since EMS has been used in sports for over 50 years, there are numerous studies and research articles on the topic. Sports professionals and athletes have explored EMS training as a complementary element in structured routines. There are many studies that examine the potential applications of EMS training.

 

 


The following studies examine the use of EMS and provide interesting insights into potential areas of application:

  • Porcari, J., Ryskey, A., & Foster, C. (2018): This controlled study analysed differences between EMS users and a control group. The authors documented differences in muscle activation and other training parameters. Here is the study.
  • Anderson, A. G., Murphy, M. H., Murtagh, E., & Nevill, A. (2006): This controlled study compared two groups – one completed a training programme with EMS, the other without. Both groups trained over the same period with an identical training plan. While both groups showed documented changes in certain physical metrics, the EMS group showed greater average changes. The results provide insights into how EMS may be integrated into regular training under specific conditions. Here is the study.
  • Porcari, J. P., Miller, J., Cornwell, K., Foster, C., Gibson, M., McLean, K., & Kernozek, T. (2005): In this controlled study, two groups were compared: one used an EMS abdominal training programme for eight weeks, the other served as the control. Participants in the EMS group completed regular sessions. The results showed that this group had greater average documented changes in areas such as muscle activity and perceived body awareness. The findings suggest that EMS training was examined as part of a structured training concept. Here is the study.
  • Mester, J., Nowak, S., Schmithüsen, J., Kleinöder, H., & Speicher, U. (2008): This controlled study analysed the effects of different training forms – mechanical, electrical (EMS), and combined – on strength diagnostic parameters. Over a longer period, participants trained in groups using different types of stimulation. The analysis showed that particularly the combination of mechanical and electrical stimulation led to greater average documented changes in selected strength-related parameters. The results indicate that EMS was examined as a supportive element within a structured training setting. Here is the study.
  • Ballantyne, E., & Donne, B. (1999): In this controlled study, two groups were compared – one trained over several weeks using an EMS abdominal trainer, the other did not. The study documented selected training-related parameters over a defined period. While the control group showed no significant changes, the EMS group showed documented changes in selected strength and endurance parameters. The results indicate that EMS can be used effectively to support training. [Ballantyne, E., & Donne, B. (1999). Effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on static and dynamic abdominal strength and endurance in healthy males. Sports Science, 431]

These studies offer just a small insight into existing research. In addition, many other scientific publications explore the use of EMS in training contexts. As part of our commitment, we support ongoing scientific engagement with the topic of EMS.