1. Possible applications

Low-frequency electrical stimulation (below 1 kHz) is used in many fields. These include medical-therapeutic applications such as prevention of muscular atrophy or quicker convalescence. It is used in other areas such as training aimed at preventing (or reducing) back pain and urinary incontinence. In amateur and professional sport, low-current EMS is also used in the areas of strength and endurance training. It can also be used for whole body or muscle relaxation and massage.

2. Forms of training

In strength training in particular, low-frequency EMS leads to an increase in voluntary contractions, which can be at a specific angle, or dynamic within a certain range of motion (ROM). In practice, those undergoing training tighten their musculature or move it simultaneously with the intensification of the electrically induced stimulation. The stimulation is of local muscles, several muscle groups or whole body EMS training. Another option is combined training where a mechanical stimulus (e.g. weight training) and low-frequency EMS are used simultaneously or successively.

3. Current level of research

Low-frequency EMS is used in the above fields with training taking various forms. The investigation by Fritzsche et al. (2010) showed for the first time the effects of low-frequency whole body EMS training in patients with cardiac insufficiency in secondary prevention efforts. The improvements to objective performance capabilities and optimisation of muscular-physiological and metabolic parameters were significant. They exceeded the results of established aerobic forms of training as part of primary and secondary cardiological rehabilitation of patients with chronic heart insufficiency (CHI).

As people advance in years, progressive inactivity atrophy starts to affect important hormone-producing structures. These include the thyroid gland, adrenal cortex, the pancreas and the gonads. Consistent EMS training promotes hormone production in the glands and testosterone and growth hormones increase greatly. The ageing process can thus be slowed down using regular EMS training with EasyMotionSkin. This mostly occurs due to increased hormonal and enzymatic activity, which slows down cell degeneration processes. The effect on increasing libido is a side-effect of EMS training with EasyMotionSkin that is being documented more and more. Older gentlemen have reported improved circulation in their sexual organs and women experience an upsurge in libido. Both effects can be explained by the significantly increased circulation of the pelvic floor. Sexuality is still a hot issue for those with advancing years! Consulting with the patient on these issues is therefore important.

5.Maintaining the muscular ‘corset’

Your whole body changes as you get older. It leads to a progressive decrease in muscle strength and a reduction in the active muscle profile. High levels of pain often (back, limbs) discourage people from participating in regular training which then increasingly reduces the mobility of the whole body. EMS training with EasyMotionSkin is an ideal alternative for this group, helping them keep their muscular ‘corset’ in top condition and further improve it. Significant strength gains are also evident in elderly exercisers. The targeted simultaneous training of agonists/antagonists does not involve painful pressure on the joints. The stimulation of low-lying muscle areas (e.g. intervertebral musculature) targets pain in the back and eliminates it permanently. Training is for everybody, regardless of age or level of fitness. Accordingly, EMS training with EasyMotionSkin now has a prominent role in age rehabilitation, and preventive medicine.

6.Strengthening bones

Scientific studies have demonstrated the interaction between physical activity and healthy bone structure. Only if the body is placed under sufficient exertion will the necessary calcium and vitamins be made available for bone revitalisation from one’s diet. There is also the risk of osteoporosis to contend with which is a reduction in mineralisation in the bone structure. Sufferers of this condition may experience bone fractures from everyday activities. The compressive and tensile forces present in EMS training with EasyMotionSkin increase strength and bone mineralization. And even if osteoporosis has been diagnosed, targeted training using EasyMotionSkin can slow down, or even reverse the degenerative process. Increasing numbers of younger patients are suffering from osteoporosis all of whom could benefit from a EMS training programme as a preventive measure.