AUTHOR=Kemmler Wolfgang , Fröhlich Michael , Ludwig Oliver , Eifler Christoph , von Stengel Simon , Willert Sebastian , Teschler Marc , Weissenfels Anja , Kleinöder Heinz , Micke Florian , Wirtz Nicolas , Zinner Christoph , Filipovic Andre , Wegener Bernd , Berger Joshua , Evangelista Alexandre , D’Ottavio Stefano , Sara Jaskanwal Deep Singh , Lerman Amir , Perez de Arrilucea Le Floc’h Unai A. , Carle-Calo Abraham , Guitierrez Angel , Amaro-Gahete Francisco J. TITLE=Position statement and updated international guideline for safe and effective whole-body electromyostimulation training-the need for common sense in WB-EMS application JOURNAL=Frontiers in Physiology VOLUME=14 YEAR=2023 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2023.1174103 DOI=10.3389/fphys.2023.1174103 ISSN=1664-042X ABSTRACT=

Whole-Body Electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) is a training technology that enables simultaneous stimulation of all the main muscle groups with a specific impulse intensity for each electrode. The corresponding time-efficiency and joint-friendliness of WB-EMS may be particularly attractive for people unable or unmotivated to conduct (intense) conventional training protocols. However, due to the enormous metabolic and musculoskeletal impact of WB-EMS, particular attention must be paid to the application of this technology. In the past, several scientific and newspaper articles reported severe adverse effects of WB-EMS. To increase the safety of commercial non-medical WB-EMS application, recommendations “for safe and effective whole-body electromyostimulation” were launched in 2016. However, new developments and trends require an update of these recommendations to incorporate more international expertise with demonstrated experience in the application of WB-EMS. The new version of these consensus-based recommendations has been structured into 1) “general aspects of WB-EMS”, 2) “preparation for training”, recommendations for the 3) “WB-EMS application” itself and 4) “safety aspects during and after training”. Key topics particularly addressed are 1) consistent and close supervision of WB-EMS application, 2) mandatory qualification of WB-EMS trainers, 3) anamnesis and corresponding consideration of contraindications prior to WB-EMS, 4) the participant’s proper preparation for the session, 5) careful preparation of the WB-EMS novice, 6) appropriate regeneration periods between WB-EMS sessions and 7) continuous interaction between trainer and participant at a close physical distance. In summary, we are convinced that the present guideline will contribute to greater safety and effectiveness in the area of non-medical commercial WB-EMS application.