Looking to amp up your gym routine in the New Year? Researchers at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) suggest that incorporating neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) into traditional resistance training could be just the ticket for boosting muscle mass and strength. Dr. Sudip Bajpeyi, a professor in UTEP's Department of Kinesiology, is at the forefront of this electrifying research.
A recent meta-analysis study, published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, examined the effects of NMES used in tandem with weight training exercises like bench presses or squats. The study, encompassing over 12 individual research projects, found that this combination yields better results in terms of muscle mass and strength than resistance training alone. Bajpeyi noted that using electrical stimulators whilst, exercising contributed to these superior outcomes.
NMES devices use electrical currents to stimulate the muscle contractions typically initiated by the brain. "Under normal conditions, the brain activates muscles by sending signals through the nervous system," Bajpeyi explained, as per UTEP. By replicating this natural process externally, NMES can make the muscles contract involuntarily, a potentially game-changing approach for those with various barriers to traditional exercise.
While the health and fitness community buzzes with the potential of NMES, it's important to note that longer periods of this enhanced training, ranging from two to 16 weeks, were shown to be more beneficial. The UTEP team includes research associates like Gabriel Narvaez and doctoral candidates such as Jehu N. Apaflo. They are broadening the scope of their exploration into how NMES may also impact metabolic health, specifically in managing blood glucose levels and decreasing type 2 diabetes risk.
"Exercise is medicine, but not everyone is able or willing to engage in traditional exercise,” Bajpeyi said, as obtained by UTEP. He believes NMES holds significant promise for augmenting metabolic health by bolstering muscle mass which, in turn, can enhance the body's ability to process blood glucose. The MiNER lab at UTEP, which Bajpeyi directs, is actively recruiting individuals for upcoming studies to investigate these benefits further.
