If you’ve been following celebrities like Liz Hurley, Heidi Klum, or Madonna on Instagram, you might have noticed them engaging in a rather unusual workout regimen – one that involves being connected to wires. This intriguing fitness trend is none other than EMS training, which stands for Electrical Muscle Stimulation. Claiming to deliver the benefits of four hours of conventional exercise in just a brief twenty-minute session, it’s no wonder that interest in EMS training is growing, with 1.6k of you seeking more information about it.
WH Editor-in-Chief Claire Sanderson was sent to experience EMS training in London. In this article, we’ll provide an honest review of her experience.
Understanding EMS Training
EMS, or Electrical Muscle Stimulation training, is a cutting-edge fitness approach that employs electrical impulses to enhance muscle contractions during workouts. EMS training experience, combining advanced technology with expert coaching to deliver exceptional results.
How Does EMS Training Work?
EMS training entails the controlled delivery of electrical impulses through specialized EMS suits or electrodes placed on specific muscle groups. These impulses activate deep muscle fibers that are often difficult to engage through conventional exercise alone. This leads to more intense muscle contractions, resulting in a highly efficient workout, all completed in just 20 minutes.
While further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness, some studies have shown promising results. For instance, a 2021 study demonstrated significant improvements in body circumference and cardiovascular function in women who used an EMS suit during low-intensity resistance exercises.
Does EMS Training Work for Abs?
A common query is whether EMS training effectively strengthens abdominal muscles. The answer is, Yes! EMS training is particularly effective for strengthening your abdominal muscles. Specialized EMS protocols and tailored workouts focus on helping you achieve stronger abs faster and more effectively.
What Happens During an EMS Training Session?
A typical EMS training session involves wearing a custom-designed EMS suit while being guided by a certified EMS trainer. EMS device and suit are completely wireless, enabling a wider range of exercises. The trainer leads you through a series of low-impact exercises, adjusting the intensity to match your fitness level and goals, all within a time-efficient 20-minute session.
Is EMS Training Safe?
Safety is a top priority in EMS training. Trainers are highly skilled and knowledgeable in EMS technology, ensuring effective and safe sessions. They conduct thorough assessments to determine suitability and tailor workouts to individual needs. It was noted that EMS training was initially developed as a rehabilitation tool to assist individuals with certain disabilities.
Who Should Avoid EMS Training?
EMS training may not be suitable for pregnant individuals or those with specific medical conditions, such as epilepsy or pacemakers. The team conducts comprehensive health assessments to determine suitability and make appropriate recommendations for each client.
Frequency of EMS Training
The frequency of EMS training sessions varies from person to person, with many clients benefiting from 1-2 sessions per week in combination with other forms of exercise. Trainers work closely with individuals to create personalized training plans aligned with their objectives.
EMS Training at Home
If you have your own EMS suit and access to an EMS trainer, you can absolutely engage in EMS training at home. Both home sessions and studio sessions, where trained professionals provide expert guidance, ensure you get the most out of your workouts while prioritizing safety and effectiveness.
Weight Management with EMS Training
For those wondering if EMS training aids in weight management, the answer is yes. EMS training is an effective tool for weight management. It helps increase muscle mass and boost metabolism, contributing to a healthier body composition. When combined with a balanced diet and lifestyle, EMS training can support your weight management goals effectively, allowing you to burn up to 500 calories in just 20 minutes.
Editor-in-Chief Claire’s Honest Review
Claire Sanderson, WH Editor-in-Chief, shared her firsthand experience with EMS training. She described the sensation of the EMS suit as slightly tingly and a bit strange but not unpleasant. Claire also noted that the instructor gradually increased the stimulation intensity, which, for her first session, was turned up higher than usual. She likened the sensation to a TENS machine but more intense.
Claire found that simple movements became considerably harder due to the electrical current charges through her muscles. However, the aesthetic results were quick to appear, with her bum looking more lifted, and her arms appearing sculpted after just a few sessions. Claire did experience significant muscle soreness after her sessions, particularly in her lower body.
She emphasized that EMS training offers quick results in a short amount of time, making it ideal for individuals with time constraints or those looking to prepare for a special event. However, Claire also noted that it provides a different feeling compared to traditional weight training.
EMS training offers a unique and time-efficient approach to fitness, with potential benefits for muscle strengthening, weight management, and quick results. While more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness, it is considered a safe option when performed under the guidance of trained professionals. Whether you’re seeking a convenient workout solution or looking to complement your existing fitness routine, EMS training may be worth exploring.