FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
EMS training from BODYWAVE is a full body workout that doesn’t only target one specific muscle group. During EMS training, up to 90% of muscles are activated simultaneously and the muscle contractions are of higher quality and more intense than a voluntary exertion can do alone. Compared to conventional weight training, EMS training activates deeper muscle groups which leads to better balance amongst the muscles in the body and increased core stability.
The BODYWAVE EMS device is able to stimulate multiple muscle groups simultaneously, allowing for a repeated activation of the whole body. You’ll always do your EMS training under the guidance of a personal trainer who can activate eight muscle groups individually (such as the lower back, stomach, biceps and glutes) according to your goals and needs.
In order to achieve the most effective results for muscular adaptation and physical functioning, your body needs time to rest and recover. Research shows that recovery and adaptation periods after whole-body BODYWAVE EMS training sessions are significantly longer than for weight and resistance training. It is not beneficial to train more often to gain better results because BODYWAVE EMS training is so intense and effective, you only need one session per week.
We recommend to supplement a BODYWAVE strength training with other activities, the type of exercise depends on the individual goals of a client. Somebody wanting to increase muscle mass would receive a different recommendation than somebody wanting to lose weight.
In general, moderate cardio training (tramping, running, swimming, cycling or rowing), i.e. activities to facilitate significant changes of heart rate and oxygen consumption are an ideal extension of the BODYWAVE strength training.
You’ll feel a difference after your first EMS training session. As your body releases endorphins and as most major muscle groups in your body have been activated, you will experience increased physical awareness, resulting in an improved posture. After a day or two, you’ll feel some muscle stiffness, which is normal and is indicative of your body’s recovery process. Within a period of about 4 weeks, you’ll feel stronger and different muscles will improve to coordinate movements more effectively.
After roughly 6 to 8 sessions (6 to 8 weeks) you will not only feel, but also see a visible difference from the EMS training in the form of gradually increased muscle formation and a possible reduction in body fat (depending on your diet). As with conventional training, EMS training should be done regularly to ensure and maintain optimal results.
Over the last few decades, an extensive amount of research has proven the effectiveness and scientific validation of EMS training. Amongst others, areas of improvement include:
- Maximum strength
- Strength endurance
- Hypertrophy (muscle growth)
- Speed, responsiveness and agility
- Perceived physical well-being
- Balancing of muscular imbalances (i.e. reduction of back pain)
No, any type of physical training is an activity that requires you to get out of your comfort zone, but never to hurt you!
Yes, EMS training imitates the natural principle of muscle contraction, which is a result of the interaction between the brain, the central nervous system and muscle tissue. BODYWAVE uses a low frequency stimulus to activate intense muscle contractions and your personal trainer will ensure your individual training levels are an optimum fit for you. In comparison to other strength training, EMS training is known to be particularly gentle on joints.
However, certain medical conditions are known to be contraindications and EMS training with BODYWAVE is not recommended for the following conditions: (1) pregnancy; (2) pacemaker or other electrical implants; (3) acute illness, such as fever, viral infections or acute inflammatory processes. Medical consent might be necessary for some physical conditions and these should be discussed with your personal trainer before any training commences.
EMS training with BODYWAVE has been scientifically proven to be effective for people of different age groups and different fitness levels. This means a performance athlete with many years of training experience can train next to a person who has been physically inactive for many years. However, certain medical conditions are known to be contraindications and EMS training with BODYWAVE is not recommended in certain cases (see Is EMS Training Safe?).
For some medical conditions, a doctor’s consent might be needed and suitability for the training needs to be assessed on an individual case-to-case basis. Medical conditions* requiring assessment include the following:
- Circulatory disorders, acute stroke, stent, thrombosis and cardiovascular diseases (i.e. arteriosclerosis)
- Bleeding, bleeding tendency or hemophilia
- Diabetes mellitus
- Abdominal wall hernia or inguinal hernia
- Severe neurological disorders (i.e. epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis etc.)
- Acute operation (within 8 weeks, depending on individual case)
*Please note: the above list is not exhaustive and if you have any medical condition which could be affected by EMS training, it is your responsibility to inform your trainer and doctor so an appropriate assessment can be made.
No, any type of physical training is an activity that requires you to get out of your comfort zone, but never to hurt you!
EMS training has been used for decades in the fields of sports medicine and rehabilitation. Over the last 10 years EMS training has widened its spectrum of application to include general fitness and sports performance. Therefore a wealth of research information exists on EMS training amongst its different areas of application and has proven its scientific effectiveness. Some of the most significant research findings have shown positive training effects on muscle-mass (Kemmler & Von Stengel, 2013).
Research from the German Sports University Cologne (Filipovic et al., 2012; Speicher et al., 2008) found significant improvements in speed and maximum strength after a period of EMS training.
Research in the field of rehabilitation at the University of Bayreuth (Boeck-Behrens et al., 2002) has shown significant levels of pain relief in participants suffering from back pain.
EMS training has further shown to be an effective training method for the elderly (Kemmler & Von Stengel, 2012) and for cardiologic patients, as research from Bad Oeynhausen has shown (Fritzsche et al., 2010).
Come as you are! For your trial we will provide you with the specially designed BODYWAVE shirt and tights you need for an EMS training session. When you sign up you can purchase your own set or make use of our laundry service that gives you access to a set of garments and a towel at each session. You can train barefoot or wear trainers.
Yes. Each training session can accommodate two people. It’s often more fun and motivating if you train with someone you know, so we actively encourage it.
EMS training with BODYWAVE is a high intensity training session and it is therefore important to have a sustainable meal (carbohydrate and protein-based) 2 to 3 hours before training. We also recommend drinking at least 500ml water an hour before training to ensure proper hydration. Avoid heavy, starch-based meals and sugary or carbonated drinks before your EMS training session.