EMS Combined With Resistance Training in Weight Lifters
Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexMale
Age18-40
SponsorRiphah International University
About this trial
The purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to determine the effects of Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) combined with resistance training on muscle mass, muscular strength, body composition, and power in trained weightlifters. Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups: one receiving resistance training alone and the other receiving EMS combined with resistance training. The intervention will be conducted for eight weeks, and outcome measures will be assessed at baseline, mid-intervention (4 weeks), and post-intervention (8 weeks). The findings of this study may provide evidence regarding the additional benefits of EMS when combined with conventional resistance training programs in enhancing muscular performance among trained athletes.
Eligibility criteria
This trial accepts healthy volunteersQualifiers
Male participants aged 18-40 years
Resistance training ≥3 times/week for at least 1 year
Active participation in weightlifting, bodybuilding, or strength athletics
Medically cleared for physical activity
Disqualifiers
Neuromuscular disorders
Cardiac pacemaker or implantable electronic device
Recent musculoskeletal injury (within the last 6 months)
Skin sensitivity or allergy to EMS electrodes
Trial design
Design model
Parallel
Treatments tested in this trial
EMS + Resistance Training
Other interventionThis group will combine the benefits of both EMS and Resistance Training to maximize muscle mass, strength, and body composition improvements using both EMS and RT (18). EMS will be applied to muscles using a frequency-specific protocol. EMS treatment according to the parameters defined as frequency (85 Hz), pulse duration (400 1s), and the duty cycle (10s on: 50s off). Exercises: A complementary schedule of EMS and resistance exercises. Frequency: 3 times per week (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday) for 8 weeks.
Resistance Training Only
Other interventionThis protocol will emphasize muscle strengthening through resistance training to improve strength and muscle mass through traditional resistance training methods (7). Exercises: A selection of exercises focusing on muscle mass and strength. Compound exercises (such as squats, deadlifts, bench press) and isolation exercises (such as bicep curls, triceps extensions) Frequency: 3 times per week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) for 8 weeks.
Treatment groups
34 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groupsGroup A: EMS + Resistance TrainingExperimental treatment 1 intervention
Group B: Resistance Training OnlyActive comparator 1 intervention
Trial outcomes
Primary outcomes
1
Mid Upper Arm Circumference
This measurement helps assess muscle size and mass in the upper arm. It is a simple, non-invasive way to estimate changes in muscle growth
Time frame
Baseline, Week 4, Week 82
Thigh Circumference
This measures the circumference of the thigh, another area where muscle growth can be tracked. It gives insights into lower-body muscle mass
Time frame
Baseline, Week 4, Week 83
Skinfold Thickness
This refers to the measurement of skinfolds at specific body sites (such as triceps, abdomen, and thigh) using calipers. It provides an estimate of subcutaneous fat and indirectly reflects muscle mass as well
Time frame
Baseline, Week 4, Week 84
30s Sit-to-Stand Test
This test measures functional lower-body strength by counting how many times a person can rise from a chair in 30 seconds. It assesses leg strength and endurance
Time frame
Baseline, Week 4, Week 8Sponsors and contacts
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Source ClinicalTrials.gov