By: Pierre Zarokian

Remember the 70s when people would wear stimulation patches on their abdomen to get a six-pack while watching TV? Some trends come back, and this one is returning with renewed interest. Whole-Body Electrical Muscle Stimulation (WB-EMS) has been around for the last decade in Europe, but it is gaining traction in the U.S.

“WB-EMS makes exercise more accessible,” explains Conrad Sanchez, an EMS educator and celebrity trainer in Los Angeles with over 16 years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry. “It’s ideal for a wide range of individuals, from busy professionals to seniors and those recovering from injuries.”

Who Can Benefit the Most from Electrical Muscle Stimulation?

• Busy Moms and Professionals: Juggling a million things, working long hours, and not finding time to hit the gym? WB-EMS can potentially pack a 2-hour workout into just 20 minutes, according to some research studies comparing strength results at the end of several weeks of training. Sanchez gives the example of an executive he trains in his office during his lunch break.

• Seniors: Muscles work on a “use it or lose it” principle. As we age, the muscle fibers responsible for strength and power start to atrophy unless we engage in resistance training, which is where WB-EMS can be particularly effective, explains Sanchez. “I train a couple, they’re 80 and 77 years old, and their stress tests showed improvement compared to two years prior after only two months of training twice per week,” adds Sanchez.

• People with Limited Mobility: WB-EMS is often considered an ideal fitness option for individuals with injuries, joint pain, or limited range of motion. “For example,” explains Sanchez, “someone with knee pain can strengthen their leg muscles without putting undue strain on the joint.” There are electrodes for every major muscle group, and they can all be individually adjusted to the desired intensity. This minimizes stress on injured areas while still providing a full-body workout.

• Sports Enthusiasts: For fitness enthusiasts seeking to enhance their performance, WB-EMS can be a valuable resistance training tool. By engaging a high percentage of muscle fibers simultaneously, EMS may lead to quicker gains in strength, improve muscle mass, and enhance explosive power. This can be particularly beneficial for weekend warriors who would rather spend more time playing the sports they love or engaging in activities such as running and cycling.

• Athletes: Have you heard of Usain Bolt? Maybe the name is enough of a hint to guess that he was using WB-EMS before it came to the U.S. Athletes generally prefer to dedicate more time to practicing their respective sport than lifting weights – unless, of course, they’re weightlifters. Athletes also tend to get injured or need to preserve their joints from too much high-impact activity, making WB-EMS a potential training method.

• Weight Loss: EMS fitness may help increase muscle mass, engage more muscle fibers, and increase metabolic rate. All these elements can contribute to the larger fat-loss equation, which also requires proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress management, clarifies Sanchez.

Who Might Not Be Suitable for WB-EMS?

There are some absolute contraindications. Absolute means under no circumstances can individuals partake in a whole-body electrical stimulation exercise program.

• Pregnant or suspected pregnancy.
• Individuals with pacemakers or other medical implanted devices.
• People with severe cardiovascular disease.
• People with severe kidney disease.
• People with severe neurological disease.
• People with epilepsy or seizures.

Recommended Frequency for WB-EMS Training:

The optimal frequency of WB-EMS sessions varies depending on individual goals and fitness levels.

“Generally, 1-2 sessions per week are recommended for most individuals,” says Sanchez. “However, this can be adjusted based on factors such as fitness goals, recovery rates, and individual needs. A qualified EMS trainer will assess your specific needs and create a personalized training plan that aligns with your goals and limitations.”

It seems WB-EMS offers a wide range of benefits for those who may not prefer traditional gym workouts or weightlifting. For more information on Conrad Sanchez, you can visit his website: www.conrademsfitness.com.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or qualified EMS trainer before beginning any new fitness regimen, including Whole-Body Electrical Muscle Stimulation (WB-EMS). WB-EMS may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, including but not limited to pregnancy, pacemakers, severe cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, neurological disorders, or epilepsy. Results may vary, and appropriate guidance should be sought to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Published by Stephanie M.