Can EMS Workouts Boost Your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)?

Ever wondered why some people seem to burn calories effortlessly, while others struggle to keep weight off? It all boils down to metabolism, specifically your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). But what exactly is BMR, and can EMS (electro muscle stimulation) workouts give it a much-needed boost?

What is BMR?

BMR is the minimum amount of calories your body burns at rest to maintain essential functions like breathing, circulation, and cell production. It’s kind of like your body’s idling engine-even when you’re not actively moving, it’s still using energy to keep you going. BMR is influenced by several factors, including:

-Muscle mass: Muscle is metabolically active tissue, meaning it burns calories even at rest. So, the more muscle you have, the higher your BMR.

-Age: BMR tends to decrease with age as muscle mass naturally declines.

-Sex: Men generally have a higher BMR than women due to naturally greater muscle mass.

-Body composition: Lean body mass (muscle, bone, and organs) burns more calories than fat tissue.

A higher BMR means you burn more calories throughout the day, even without exercise.

So, what if you could increase your BMR and burn more calories naturally? This is where Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS) training comes in.

Can EMS Workouts Increase BMR?

EMS workouts involve using electrical currents to stimulate muscle contraction. EMS can be an efficient way to build muscle, which could potentially lead to a higher BMR.

Here’s why EMS could be beneficial, with some studies backing the claims:

-Muscle activation: A 2019 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that EMS workouts were effective in activating a wider range of muscle fibres compared to traditional bodyweight exercises. This broader activation could lead to more comprehensive muscle growth.

-Increased strength: A 2020 study in the European Journal of Sports Science showed that EMS training resulted in significant improvements and muscle strength. Stronger muscles require more energy to maintain, even at rest, potentially boosting BMR.

-Convenience: A 2017 study in the International Journal of Sports Medicine highlighted the time-efficiency of EMS workouts. Compared to traditional weight training, EMS sessions can be shorter and less strenuous, making them easier to fit into a busy schedule. This can be particularly beneficial for those new to exercise or with limitations that make traditional workouts difficult.

However, it’s important to consider some limitations:

-EMS is not a magic Bullet: Building muscle takes time and consistency, and MS alone may not be enough to significantly boost BMR. Combining EMS with a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial.

-BMR is affected by individual factors: Age genetics, and diet all play a role in BMR. EMS might not have the same effect on everyone.

So, can EMS help with BMR?

The evidence suggests it might be a promising option, especially for those new to exercise or with limitations. However, for optimal results, consider EMS as a complimentary tool alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise routine.

Here are some additional tips for boosting your BMR:

-Strength training: Focus on building muscle mass with exercises that target major muscle groups.

-Eat a balanced diet: Ensure you’re consuming enough protein to support muscle growth and repair.

-Get enough sleep: When sleep-deprived, your body produces more stress hormones that can negatively impact metabolism.

By combining these strategies, you can create a sustainable approach to increasing your BMR and reaching your fitness goals. Remember, consistency is key. Ready to learn more about how EMS can complement your fitness routine? Contact us today!