20-Minute Workouts vs. Lifting

UAE residents facing hectic schedules may find it challenging to devote hours to the gym. A new fitness trend, however, promises the benefits of a typical workout in much less time.

Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) training is gaining popularity, with one Dubai expert noting that a 20-minute EMS session can offer the same results as four hours in the gym. This makes it an appealing option for busy professionals and fitness enthusiasts.

EMS training involves wearing a specialized suit with electrodes that send electrical signals to muscles, causing them to contract.

Marcus Ringler, manager at Easy Fit and an EMS training expert, suggests that "EMS is far more efficient than weightlifting," offering a time-effective workout alternative.

Growing Popularity

Marcus, with experience in both Germany and the UAE, reports a significant rise in interest in EMS. He attributes this to the demand for fitness solutions that cater to the busy lives of UAE residents.

EMS attracts a wide audience, from those lacking time for long workouts to those preferring private sessions.

He mentions, "Many come to us saying they don't have time for the gym. With EMS, sessions once or twice a week suffice."

Typical clients include busy executives, parents, and those uncomfortable in crowded gyms. EMS is gentle on joints, reducing injury risks common in high-impact exercises like CrossFit.

Each session includes personal training, enhancing safety and workout effectiveness.

Laiba Ashfaq, a physiotherapist at Aman Lil Afia Clinic, highlights EMS's value in rehabilitation, stating, "EMS activates muscles without stressing joints, aiding recovery and restoring function." This makes EMS beneficial for injury recovery and boosting athletic performance.

Not a Replacement for Traditional Exercise

Despite its impressive results, experts advise against using EMS as a sole fitness approach. Ashfaq warns, "EMS isn't a substitute for traditional exercise," emphasizing that it lacks the mechanical stress needed for full fitness and health.

Swapna Mary John, a clinical dietitian at International Modern Hospital Dubai, agrees, recommending EMS as a supplement rather than a replacement and highlighting the importance of diet and exercise for well-rounded fitness.

"EMS aids muscle building and fat loss, but a balanced diet is vital," she advises, stressing the need for proteins, carbs, and healthy fats to support gains and health.

Safety Concerns

Despite its popularity, some remain skeptical about EMS. Marcus acknowledges concerns about its safety and efficacy, explaining that inconsistent training or poor diets often hinder results.

"Like any regimen, EMS success requires commitment, proper technique, and a balanced diet," he states.

Safety concerns over electrical currents in EMS are common. However, Marcus assures that EMS is safe when conducted professionally using certified equipment. He suggests trying a session to experience its benefits firsthand.

Marcus shares success stories, including a woman in Dubai who reduced her weight from 130kg to 85kg in six to eight months with EMS and a healthy diet.

"These stories are inspiring, but the best part is when clients report improvements like no longer having back pain," says Marcus, illustrating EMS's potential.

Source: khaleejtimes

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.