Electromyostimulation—A Systematic Review of the Effects of Different Electromyostimulation Methods on Selected Strength Parameters in Trained and Elite Athletes

Abstract

This is the first part of 2 studies that systematically review the current state of research and structure the results of selected electromyostimulation (EMS) studies in a way that makes accurate comparisons possible. This part will focus on the effects of EMS on strength enhancement. On the basis of these results, part 2 will deal with the influence of the training regimen and stimulation parameters on EMS training effectiveness to make recommendations for training control. Out of about 200 studies, 89 trials were selected according to predefined criteria: subject age (<35 years), subject health (unimpaired), EMS type (percutaneous stimulation), and study duration (>7 days). To evaluate these trials, we first defined appropriate categories according to the type of EMS (local or whole body) and type of muscle contraction (isometric, dynamic, isokinetic). Then, we established the most relevant strength parameters for high-performance sports: maximal strength, speed strength, power, jumping and sprinting ability. Unlike former reviews, this study differentiates between 3 categories of subjects based on their level of fitness (untrained subjects, trained subjects, and elite athletes) and on the types of EMS methods used (local, whole-body, combination). Special focus was on trained and elite athletes. Untrained athletes were investigated for comparison purposes. This scientific analysis revealed that EMS is effective for developing physical performance. After a stimulation period of 3-6 weeks, significant gains (p < 0.05) were shown in maximal strength (isometric Fmax +58.8%; dynamic Fmax +79.5%), speed strength (eccentric isokinetic Mmax +37.1%; concentric isokinetic Mmax + 41.3%; rate of force development + 74%; force impulse + 29%; vmax + 19%), and power (+67%). Developing these parameters increases vertical jump height by up to +25% (squat jump +21.4%, countermovement jump +19.2%, drop jump +12%) and improves sprint times by as much as -4.8% in trained and elite athletes. With regard to the level of fitness, the analysis shows that trained and elite athletes, despite their already high level of fitness, are able to significantly enhance their level of strength to same extent as is possible with untrained subjects. The EMS offers a promising alternative to traditional strength training for enhancing the strength parameters and motor abilities described above. Because of the clear-cut advantages in time management, especially when whole-body EMS is used, we can expect this method to see the increasing use in high-performance sports.

Changes in quadriceps muscle girth after anterior cruciate ligament injury followed by electrostimulation combined with high protein diet and exercises (ARPwave method)

“…Filipovic et al [20] also analysed the NMES effects on chosen endurance parameters in sportspeople. The selection of 89 out of 200 studies was performed in accordance with the following criteria: age (35 years), healthy patient, NMES type (skin stimulation).…”

The Application of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Training in Various Non‐neurologic Patient Populations: A Narrative Review

“…Two reviews of studies in healthy subjects have shown MVC force improvements of between 7% and 62% [24,42]. NMES training also was effective in improving muscle strength in patients with advanced disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and congestive heart failure (CHF), in whom a Cochrane Review found significant improvements in quadriceps muscle strength [43].…”

Rhabdomyolysis in an elite dancer after training with electromyostimulation: A case report

“…1 Both whole-body EMS of several muscles simultaneously and local EMS applied on single muscle groups have proven to be an effective training modality. 2 A study conducted in elite volleyball players revealed >20% increase in jump height 4 weeks after application of EMS to defined muscles of the lower body. 3 Other studies with EMS applied locally to single muscles have shown positive effects on strength gain.…”