Effects of an Eight-Week Superimposed Submaximal Dynamic Whole-Body Electromyostimulation Training on Strength and Power Parameters of the Leg Muscles

This randomised controlled trial compared eight weeks of strength training with WB-EMS and the same training without electrostimulation. The aim was to determine whether EMS provides an additional effect on lower limb strength and power in physically active people. Participants trained twice a week for eight weeks. The results showed an improvement in maximum strength and power parameters in both groups. The additional effect of WB-EMS was apparent particularly in some strength parameters, whereas for explosiveness and power the difference between the groups was not pronounced. The authors conclude that EMS can represent a suitable supplement to strength training but does not automatically guarantee significantly better results than well-guided training without EMS.

- Randomised controlled trial. - 8 weeks of training. - Improvement in lower limb strength. - Benefit particularly for strength parameters. - Smaller effect on explosiveness and sport-specific performance.

EMS can be a suitable supplement to strength training in athletes and active people, particularly if the goal is developing lower limb strength.