26 Healthcare Innovations Stay fi t, stay sharp Muscle up


Originally developed by NASA, EMS promises to build muscle without weights. We put two forms of the technology to the test. Words: Mattie Lacey-Davidson


B


uilding muscle without lifting weights — or resistance training of any kind — sounds like an


impossibility. But with technology that was originally developed by NASA, perhaps less so. EMS (electronic muscle stimulation)


was originally created to help astronauts build or maintain muscle in space — tricky without gravity. T is technology found its way from space and onto gym fl oors — with EMS suits giving a 45-minute weights workout in half the time. And now we can get it at home as well — although undoubtedly the eff ects will be somewhat watered down.


EMS at home Not to be confused with the likes of body toning belts, I put the MyoPulse to the test. You place pads onto the chosen area of your body and choose the setting you prefer (or can handle) while doing your exercises. It’ll work your muscles harder by engaging a greater number of muscle fi bres through the electronic muscle


stimulation. With gyms closed, my muscle strength is defi nitely not what it used to be, and working out with the MyoPulse felt like my workout had been turned up a level (or two), much like being in the gym with heavy weights at hand. £159 from myomaster.com


EMS bodysuits Strapped to your arms, legs, stomach and bum, these suits use low-frequency impulses to mimic the way your brain contracts your muscles. While your brain gets them working at around 30% when you exercise, EMS can add an extra 50%. It’s popular with both athletes and


celebrities — the likes of Usain Bolt and Ashley Graham have shown themselves at it on social media — and anyone can try it out at FLEX Chelsea in London. Whether your goal is preserving muscle while injured or building muscle mass, trainer Alex Parks walks you through simple exercises and the bodysuit ensures your muscles are working, hard. I tried it out for myself last year and noticed a diff erence after just two sessions. Of course, FLEX is currently closed, but sessions will be available once Covid-19 regulations allow it. fl exchelsea.com


Promotional Content • Saturday 6th March 2021


The MyoPulse can be placed anywhere on the body


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