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Physiological responses and perceived exertion during cycling with superimposed electromyostimulation
Patrick Wahl1, Jonas Schaerk, Silvia Achtzehn
1Institute of Training Science and Sport Informatics, German Sport University, Cologne, Germany. wahl@dshs-koeln.de
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|November 10, 2011
Summary
Adding electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) during cycling significantly increases metabolic changes, particularly at higher intensities. This suggests EMS may enhance skeletal muscle adaptations and improve aerobic performance, especially for those unable to sustain high workloads.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) is used for muscle conditioning.
- The combined effects of EMS and cycling on physiological responses are not fully understood.
- Investigating EMS during cycling can reveal potential benefits for athletic performance and rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the effects of local EMS during cycling on cardiorespiratory function, muscle metabolism, and perceived exertion.
- To compare these effects against cycling without EMS.
- To determine if EMS frequency influences the physiological responses during incremental cycling.
Main Methods:
- Ten healthy males completed three incremental cycle ergometer tests to exhaustion.
- Tests included cycling without EMS and with EMS at 30 Hz and 85 Hz.
- Measurements included cardiorespiratory parameters, blood lactate, bicarbonate, gas exchange, cortisol, creatine kinase (CK), and perceived exertion.
Main Results:
- EMS significantly increased lactate and respiratory exchange ratio at intensities >=75% peak power output (PPO).
- EMS led to lower bicarbonate, base excess (BE), and Pco2 at >=75% PPO.
- Perceived exertion was higher with EMS at 100% PPO, and CK levels were elevated 24 hours post-exercise.
Conclusions:
- Cycling with EMS induces greater metabolic alterations than cycling alone, especially at higher intensities.
- These metabolic changes suggest EMS may enhance skeletal muscle metabolism and adaptations.
- Superimposed EMS during cycling could benefit aerobic performance enhancement in athletes and patients with limitations, though increased muscle demand must be considered.
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