Non-Athletic Cohorts Enrolled in Longitudinal Whole-Body Electromyostimulation Trials-An Evidence Map

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) offers a time-efficient, joint-friendly, and customizable training method.
• WB-EMS attracts a broad user base, including non-athletic populations.
• Understanding the application of WB-EMS across various non-athletic cohorts is crucial for its wider adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map the existing evidence on non-athletic cohorts participating in WB-EMS research.
• To identify the range of populations and conditions studied using WB-EMS.
• To pinpoint research gaps in WB-EMS application for specific non-athletic groups.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive systematic literature search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
• Eighty-six eligible longitudinal trials were identified and analyzed.
• Data extraction focused on cohort characteristics, conditions studied, and reported outcomes.

Main Results:

• WB-EMS research adequately covers all adult age categories for both males and females.
• The majority of addressed cohorts (58%) were overweight/obese.
• Commonly studied conditions include cancer, obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, chronic heart failure, and low back pain. No adverse effects were reported. Evidence gaps exist for nervous and cerebrovascular diseases.

Conclusions:

• WB-EMS is extensively researched in adult populations, especially those with metabolic and musculoskeletal conditions.
• The intervention appears safe across diverse non-athletic cohorts.
• Further research is needed to explore the efficacy of WB-EMS in individuals with nervous and cerebrovascular system diseases.