Effect of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) on muscle strength and body composition in people with a sedentary lifestyle and prediabetes
1
University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):A2815
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Prediabetes represents an intermediate metabolic state between normal glucose regulation and diabetes mellitus, characterized by elevated fasting plasma glucose or impaired glucose tolerance. Although physical activity (PA) interventions improve body composition, muscle strength, and HbA1c, low adherence remains a challenge. Therefore, time-efficient, low-barrier PA options are needed. Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) induces muscle contractions using externally applied electrical currents and can activate 8–12 major muscle groups simultaneously. The current study aims to evaluate the effects of WB-EMS on muscle strength and body composition in sedentary adults with prediabetes.
METHODS:
A total of 66 individuals with prediabetes and a sedentary lifestyle were randomized equally into three groups: (1) WB-EMS + fitness tracker + lifestyle education program (LEP), (2) fitness tracker + LEP, and (3) LEP only. WB-EMS training consisted of 1.5 × 20 min/week, with intensity adjusted according to perceived exertion. Body composition was measured via bioimpedance analysis (BIA), and handgrip strength using a hydraulic dynamometer. Assessments were conducted at baseline and post-intervention. Results and analysis: This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06188481). Among 254 screened individuals, 73 were enrolled, and 66 completed follow-up (mean age = 58.6 ± 7.2 years). The post-test assessment is anticipated to be concluded in December 2025. The results of the study will be presented at the conference.
CONCLUSIONS:
WB-EMS represents a joint-friendly exercise alternative that may improve muscle strength and body composition in sedentary adults with prediabetes. By promoting metabolic health and reducing progression to type 2 diabetes, this approach could support public health goals for diabetes prevention, enhance functional independence, and reduce healthcare costs associated with inactivity-related chronic diseases. Integration of WB-EMS into community and digital health programs could expand access to preventive exercise interventions for at-risk populations.
Prediabetes represents an intermediate metabolic state between normal glucose regulation and diabetes mellitus, characterized by elevated fasting plasma glucose or impaired glucose tolerance. Although physical activity (PA) interventions improve body composition, muscle strength, and HbA1c, low adherence remains a challenge. Therefore, time-efficient, low-barrier PA options are needed. Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) induces muscle contractions using externally applied electrical currents and can activate 8–12 major muscle groups simultaneously. The current study aims to evaluate the effects of WB-EMS on muscle strength and body composition in sedentary adults with prediabetes.
METHODS:
A total of 66 individuals with prediabetes and a sedentary lifestyle were randomized equally into three groups: (1) WB-EMS + fitness tracker + lifestyle education program (LEP), (2) fitness tracker + LEP, and (3) LEP only. WB-EMS training consisted of 1.5 × 20 min/week, with intensity adjusted according to perceived exertion. Body composition was measured via bioimpedance analysis (BIA), and handgrip strength using a hydraulic dynamometer. Assessments were conducted at baseline and post-intervention. Results and analysis: This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06188481). Among 254 screened individuals, 73 were enrolled, and 66 completed follow-up (mean age = 58.6 ± 7.2 years). The post-test assessment is anticipated to be concluded in December 2025. The results of the study will be presented at the conference.
CONCLUSIONS:
WB-EMS represents a joint-friendly exercise alternative that may improve muscle strength and body composition in sedentary adults with prediabetes. By promoting metabolic health and reducing progression to type 2 diabetes, this approach could support public health goals for diabetes prevention, enhance functional independence, and reduce healthcare costs associated with inactivity-related chronic diseases. Integration of WB-EMS into community and digital health programs could expand access to preventive exercise interventions for at-risk populations.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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