Alternative Exercise Technologies to Fight against Sarcopenia at Old Age: A Series of Studies and Review

The publication summarises the available evidence on two modern exercise technologies, whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) and whole-body vibration (WBV), as alternatives to conventional strength training in older people. The authors point out that regular physical activity remains the most effective means of preventing sarcopenia, yet many older people are unable or unwilling to complete sufficiently intensive exercise. It is precisely for this group that WB-EMS and WBV can represent effective alternatives. Based on their own studies and other published work, the authors report that WB-EMS leads to improvements in muscle mass, muscle strength and functional performance, achieving comparable or better results than conventional resistance training in some parameters. Vibration training, by contrast, improves mainly muscle strength and performance, but its effect on muscle mass gain has not been clearly demonstrated. The authors therefore regard WB-EMS as one of the most promising alternative methods for preventing sarcopenia.

- The review evaluates the use of WB-EMS and WBV in the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia in older people. - WB-EMS demonstrably increases muscle strength, muscle mass and functional performance in older people. - The effects of WB-EMS are, according to the summarised studies, comparable to or higher than those of some forms of conventional resistance training. - WBV improves mainly muscle strength and performance, but the evidence for an increase in muscle mass is limited. - WB-EMS can be a suitable alternative for older people who are unable to complete conventional strength training. - The authors recommend further high-quality studies with a sufficient number of participants to confirm the long-term effects.

The review confirms that WB-EMS represents a promising method for preserving muscle mass, developing muscle strength and supporting functional independence in later life. Thanks to its low time cost and the possibility of individual adjustment, it can be a suitable component of programmes focused on active ageing, sarcopenia prevention, rehabilitation and care for older people. At the same time, it stresses that WB-EMS does not replace exercise but expands the options for effective exercise in people with limited physical capacity.