Electrical muscle stimulation devices promise to provide toning, reduce body fat and improve overall strength. The scientific studies behind EMS technology began in 1780 when an anatomist discovered that applying an electrical current to a frog's leg forced muscle contraction. This is the basis for modern-day devices. Talk to your doctor if you are considering trying an EMS toning belt, especially if you are being treated for any cardiac illness.or have a pacemaker.
Devices
The style of EMS device depends on the use. Those meant for home exercise are belts that wrap around different areas of the body. These products produce a mild electrical current that stimulates muscle contraction. EMS units for therapeutic use differ in styling, but the primary concept is the same. A mild shock causes the muscle to contract and hold as long as the current runs. Once released, the muscle will return to normal. This means the stimulators may help with toning but have limitations. EMS technology does have a role in physical therapy and rehabilitation. Medical professionals use devices to stimulate muscles that cannot move on their own due to injury.
Muscle Mass
Muscles retain their tone as long as they contract and relax regularly. Using a home EMS system may help maintain tone and keep muscles firm. What EMS devices will not do is build muscle mass, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Creating muscle enhancement comes from challenging your body. Stressing the muscles by increasing resistance causes them to break down and rebuild stronger. This requires more than just a contraction, which is what you get with an electrical stimulator. EMS devices may help maintain muscle tone temporarily, but they will not increase the body size or reduce fat.
Safety
There is some concern about safety when using an electrical muscle stimulator such as burns, shocks, skin irritation and bruising, notes the FDA. The products sold commercially use a conductive material meant to protect the body from damage. Many devices provide a gel pad that keeps the current from burning skin tissue. When the pads wear thin, there may be problems with the device. As of 2011, the FDA has cleared only one EMS device for use as a form of exercise to tone muscles.
Do They Work?
A 2002 study published in the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" concluded that EMS systems have no real effect as a form of exercise. The FDA admits they may help with toning, but you must already have good muscle tone prior to use. Some commercial products claim to improve the abdominal region; clinical research does not support this claim. The best way to keep muscles tone is to incorporate a regular exercise program into your life. Talk to your doctor about healthy ways to improve your fitness level.
References
- Texas A&M University; Electrical Muscle Stimulation; Ernie Kirkham
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Electronic Muscle Stimulators
- "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research"; Effects of Electrical Muscle Stimulation on Body Composition, Muscle Strength, and Physical Appearance; John P. Porcari, et al.; 2002
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