Making Workouts More ‘Electric’ Could Increase Muscles, Build Strength: New Study
You probably already know that wearable tech, such as smartwatches and heart rate monitors, can help athletes optimize their training and enhance their performance.
Introducing Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) Devices
Athletes looking to improve muscle mass and strength may want to consider wearing a neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) device.
How NMES Works
“Under normal conditions, the brain activates muscles by sending signals through the nervous system,” explained Sudip Bajpeyi, a kinesiology professor at the University of Texas at El Paso.
“NMES mimics this process by delivering external electrical currents to the nerves, causing the muscles to contract, without input from the brain,” Bajpeyi continued. “Think of it as though your muscles are contracting involuntarily.”
Athletes Test NMES Devices
Zahra Fatahimeiabadi, a graduate student at the University of Texas at El Paso, demonstrates a resistance workout while using an NMES unit.
The device, which can be affixed to gym shorts, may raise some eyebrows in the weight room.
What NMES Devices Can Do
It’s a handheld unit holding wires attached to electrode pads that athletes place on the skin over the muscles they want to target. Users can adjust pulse frequency, intensity and stimulation duration.
New Study Finds NMES Devices Increase Strength and Muscle Mass
Bajpeyi’s team analyzed 13 studies comprising nearly 400 people who performed resistance exercises such as bench presses or squats.
Participants’ muscle mass and strength were measured at the start and end of each study.
The researchers compared the results of those who embraced NMES while exercising to those who did not, finding greater gains in strength and muscle mass with the gadgets.
Future Research Directions
Bajpeyi said future studies should investigate if utilizing NMES while resistance training can affect metabolic or heart health.
Potential Benefits of NMES
Bajpeyi is exploring whether NMES can lower high blood sugar and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
“Exercise is medicine, but not everyone is able or willing to engage in traditional exercise,” he said. “NMES has great potential for improving metabolic health by building muscle mass, which can help the body process blood glucose more effectively.”
Conclusion
While wearable tech and traditional exercise remain important for athletes, the study suggests that NMES devices could provide an additional boost for those looking to improve their muscle mass and strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)?
A: NMES is a device that uses electrical currents to mimic the way the brain sends signals to the muscles, causing them to contract involuntarily.
Q: How do NMES devices work?
A: NMES devices use electrical currents to deliver external electrical currents to the nerves, causing the muscles to contract without input from the brain.
Q: Are NMES devices safe to use?
A: NMES devices are considered safe to use, but individuals with certain medical conditions should consult with a doctor before using the devices.
Q: Can NMES devices be used by anyone?
A: NMES devices can be used by individuals of all ages and fitness levels, but they may be more beneficial for those who have difficulty engaging in traditional exercise or want to enhance their workout gains.
