EMS Machines: Body building and Muscle Growth

By Tens Machine UK Content Team  .  Last Updated Monday, 4th July 2022

EMS and how it Works

Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS), also known as E-stim, is a technique that involves the application of electrical pulses to the skin. These pulses serve to stimulate injured muscles, manipulate nerves to reduce pain, or induce muscle contractions, often a combination of both.

EMS works by delivering electrical currents that closely resemble the signals produced by neurons. These currents can target either the nerves or the muscles. The therapy is primarily used for muscle recovery, as the electrical stimulation prompts specific muscles to contract. This contraction, in turn, enhances blood flow and accelerates the repair process for injured muscles, resulting in faster recovery compared to traditional methods without the use of an EMS device.

Individuals experiencing discomfort or pain following an intense gym workout or a heavy training session may find relief by using an EMS device or a combination device. These devices, such as Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and EMS units, can help alleviate pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals from the nerves to the brain. This pain relief is achieved by interrupting the normal pathway of pain receptors, providing a temporary respite from discomfort.

Can EMS be used for building muscle?

Many individuals involved in bodybuilding, athletics, and fitness pursuits are constantly seeking ways to gain a competitive edge, particularly in terms of muscle building and faster recovery. While professional therapists can provide effective massages to alleviate knots and pains, this approach can be costly and timing-dependent. As a result, many people are turning to EMS devices or combination devices that allow them to perform the therapy themselves and expedite the recovery process.

One significant advantage of EMS is its ability to control muscle contractions for longer periods than an athlete can achieve on their own. This feature proves beneficial for those seeking to increase muscle mass and enhance their training sessions. Athletes naturally experience both mental and physical fatigue during workouts, which limits their ability to sustain prolonged muscle contractions. With the assistance of an EMS device, individuals can extend the duration of muscle contractions, leading to enhanced muscle growth and improved training outcomes.

Furthermore, these devices can be valuable for preventing muscle atrophy during recovery from surgeries or when a limb is immobilized. By using an EMS device, muscles can be stimulated and contracted without moving the immobilized limb, reducing pressure on the joints. This targeted muscle activation helps to maintain muscle strength and fitness during periods of immobilization, such as post-surgery or during rest days. Consequently, athletes can resume their training at a similar level as before the immobilization period, minimizing setbacks and maximizing progress.

 

Other Types of E-Stim Devices?

There are two main types of Electrical Stimulation (E-Stim) devices available: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS).

  1. TENS Machines: TENS machines are primarily used for chronic or long-term pain relief, although they can also provide short-term pain relief. If you're interested in learning more about the benefits of TENS machines, you can find detailed information on our blog page.
  2. EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation): EMS devices deliver a slightly stronger current compared to TENS machines, with the goal of targeting and contracting specific muscles in the body. By placing the EMS device electrodes on the desired area, the device induces muscle contractions. As mentioned previously, this helps improve muscle strength and promotes faster muscle recovery.
  3. Combined Devices: As the name suggests, combined devices combine both TENS and EMS functionalities. These devices are ideal for individuals who require pain relief, if necessary, while also enjoying the benefits of electrical muscle stimulation. The combined device offers the convenience of both modalities in a single device.