EMS is Electrical muscle stimulation but it also goes by a few other names. The most common type of electrical stimulation that you may have already heard of is TENS (transcutaneous nerve stimulation) mostly used in rehabilitation.

EMS causes muscle contraction without any effort on your part. This is especially useful for people with mobility issues and muscle imbalances.

No you can’t just be lazy and get into shape using EMS.

HOW DOES EMS WORK?

Our brain sends impulses which stimulate the muscles to contract. Due to injuries, bad posture, compensation and degenerated muscles, the connection from brain to muscle can loose efficiency. This is where EMS steps in.

EMS efficiently targets the muscles directly, using electrical impulses. This bypasses the central nervous system to recruit a larger amount of muscle fibres. Thanks to direct stimulation, a larger percentage of the muscle is used in comparison to traditional training.

BENEFITS OF EMS

Reduce or remove impact from your training program.

Helps prevent injury.

Reduces muscle soreness.

Contracts a much higher percentage of muscles fibres.

Invigorates the body and mind.

Increases blood circulation.

DIFFERENT KINDS OF EMS

There are a few types of EMS and it’s important to know the difference. Low Frequency (LF) and Mid Frequency (MF). When using EMS we recommend looking for products that use mid frequency. This kind of frequency smoothly and steadily sends electrical impulses throughout the body. The result is deeper penetration into the muscles, more effective training/rehabilitation and a way more pleasurable overall experience.

The most common commercial type of EMS you will find is low frequency. Unfortunately this frequency level does not penetrate the skin and muscles as effectively and can even cause pain in some individuals. Many compare it to short, sharp burst of electricity.

DON’T BELIEVE THE HYPE

There is a lot of fake news being pushed about electrical muscle stimulation. Some large claims are being made and misinterpretations happen often. EMS is not a miracle tool. It will not make you the ultimate athlete or heal an injury instantly BUT if used in collaboration with current training and recovery methods it is an amazing tool that can help push you past your limits and make a speedy recovery.

HOW LONG HAS EMS BEEN AROUND

Using electricity to help heal injuries and sickness dates back thousands of years. It involved using animals such as electric eels and over countless trials has evolved into what it is today.