Efficacy and Safety of Low Frequency Whole-Body Electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) to Improve Health-Related Outcomes in Non-athletic Adults. A Systematic Review

This systematic review summarises the results of 23 expert publications arising from 14 research projects focused on the use of whole-body electromyostimulation (EMS) in the non-athletic adult population. The authors analysed randomised controlled trials, controlled studies and meta-analyses of individual data in order to assess the effect of EMS on muscle mass, muscle strength, body composition, back pain, physical performance and selected health markers. The results showed that EMS can contribute significantly to increasing muscle mass and muscle strength, reducing body fat and relieving chronic back pain. Positive effects were recorded particularly in middle-aged and older people, people with sedentary lifestyles, sarcopenia, metabolic syndrome or a limited ability to perform conventional strength training. The authors also note that EMS is not a replacement for all forms of physical activity but represents an effective and time-saving alternative for people who are unable or unwilling to complete conventional exercise programmes regularly.

- The systematic review included 23 expert publications from 14 research projects. - EMS significantly increases muscle mass and muscle strength. - Total and visceral body fat are reduced. - A favourable effect on chronic back pain was demonstrated. - Positive changes in some cardio-metabolic markers were recorded. - The results were most pronounced in untrained people and the older population. - EMS represents a time-efficient form of training with a typical frequency of 1-2 sessions per week of 20 minutes.

This systematic review provides a summary of the scientific knowledge to date on the use of WB-EMS in the general adult population. The results support the use of EMS as a tool for developing muscle mass, improving physical fitness, reducing fat and supporting active ageing. It can be particularly beneficial for people with sedentary jobs, older people, or clients looking for a time-efficient way of working on muscle mass.