Effects of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation on Strength-, Sprint-, and Jump Performance in Moderately Trained and Trained Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) in developing strength, sprint performance and jumping ability in moderately trained and trained athletes. Five methodologically very similar studies involving a total of 112 athletes were included in the analysis. The authors compared the effects of conventional sports training with programmes supplemented by WB-EMS. The results showed that WB-EMS can represent a suitable supplementary training stimulus for increasing sports performance. The benefit was apparent particularly in some strength parameters. Conversely, for sprint performance and jump height, the differences found between groups were rather small. The authors note that athletes often already perform at a high level, so the scope for further improvement is limited. They simultaneously recommend longer interventions and a higher training frequency for a better assessment of the effectiveness of WB-EMS in sporting populations.

- Systematic review and meta-analysis of 5 studies. - A total of 112 trained athletes. - WB-EMS can act as a supplementary stimulus to sports preparation. - The greatest effect was observed for strength parameters. - The benefit for sprint and jump performance was rather limited. - The authors recommend longer training programmes for a more precise evaluation of the effect.

The study shows that WB-EMS can be an effective supplement to sports preparation, particularly when the goal is strength development. However, in already well-trained athletes, dramatic improvements in sprint or jump parameters cannot be expected. Its greatest benefit may be as a complement to standard training, not as a replacement for it.