Day: February 16, 2025

By: Pierre Zarokian

You may have heard of a new trend among celebrities such as Tom Holland or the Kardashians, who are reportedly zapping their bodies into shape. The appeal, however, is not only for aesthetic purposes. Beyond the shiny lights of Hollywood and its fitness trends, there are many more benefits to uncover from this innovative technology making headlines lately.

Many of us find the notion of exercising regularly a little intimidating. From hectic schedules to that old nagging injury and the mental battle of getting started, motivating your body to move often can feel like pulling teeth.

Introducing Whole-Body Electrical Muscle Stimulation (WB-EMS), an emerging technology that is changing the way people approach fitness.

“Many times, traditional exercise comes with many roadblocks,” stated Conrad Sanchez, a respected Los Angeles-based EMS trainer with over 16 years of experience in the fitness industry. Sanchez holds a Master’s in Kinesiology and has certifications from all the major EMS training bodies. “People struggle all the time with being too busy, getting hurt, and struggling to maintain motivation,” he said.

This is where WB-EMS can offer a solution. Sanchez explains, “EMS sessions are huge time-savers—they usually do not last more than 20 minutes.” This makes it easier to accommodate strength training into even the busiest schedules. The reason why EMS workouts are so efficient lies in the technology itself. EMS uses electrical impulses to directly cause muscles to contract, similar to voluntary muscle contractions. This 1-2x a week, high-intensity yet low-impact full-body workout can be done in a fraction of the time it would take to complete similar exercises with traditional resistance training.

In addition, WB-EMS is particularly beneficial for those with injuries or chronic conditions. “Somebody with lower back pain can strengthen their core muscles without overloading the spine, for instance,” says Sanchez. This is because EMS can activate very selective muscles. With targeted use and placement of the electrical impulses, trainers can train muscle groups without causing injury to other areas from improper mechanical stress. Because of its specificity, EMS is a valuable tool for injury rehab and pain management. “People can get stronger while recovering from an injury,” adds Sanchez.

EMS also addresses one of the biggest mental barriers people have when it comes to working out, on top of physical limitations. “One of my clients had a knee injury and was not exercising at all,” remembers Sanchez. “He was able to walk around pain-free after a few sessions, focusing on glutes, quads, and hamstrings. We then slowly incorporated more full-body exercises to the point that he was able to resume his normal activities. That kind of transformation is incredibly rewarding to see.”

The advantages of EMS go beyond just recovering from injuries and saving time. Some research indicates that EMS training can help enhance muscle strength and endurance, improve core stability and posture, and potentially boost athletic performance. By activating a large number of muscle fibers at once, EMS may result in quicker increases in muscle mass and strength, comparable to what one might achieve through extensive traditional weight training, according to this study.

Additionally, EMS may contribute to overall health and well-being. By increasing muscle mass and metabolic rate, it can aid in weight management and enhance body composition. It also has the potential to improve cardiovascular health, increase bone density, and even elevate mood while reducing stress levels.

While EMS has many benefits, it is crucial that it is conducted by qualified and certified trainers. “Safety and effectiveness are paramount,” says Sanchez. “Collaborating with a certified EMS trainer ensures that the intensity and duration of the sessions are tailored to individual needs and fitness levels.”

EMS training is not merely about overcoming challenges; it’s about achieving tangible results. “All my clients report positive changes in body composition, including enhanced strength and muscle endurance,” Sanchez points out. “Whether it’s assisting a busy professional in fitting a workout into their lunch break or helping seniors regain their mobility, EMS offers a customized and effective route to a healthier lifestyle.”

As the fitness landscape continues to change, WB-EMS stands out as an appealing choice for those looking for a more efficient, effective, and accessible way to reach their health and wellness objectives.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical or fitness advice. Before beginning any new exercise regimen, including Whole-Body Electrical Muscle Stimulation (WB-EMS), it is important to consult with a healthcare provider or a certified EMS trainer to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific health needs. EMS training may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, and results may vary. Always seek professional guidance to tailor the training to your individual fitness level and goals.

Published by Stephanie M.