2026 Volume 53 Issue 3 Pages 168-174
Objective: Phase angle (PhA) is an indicator associated with muscle quality and is known to improve with regular resistance training. However, for individuals who have difficulty engaging in such training, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) may serve as an alternative method. Nevertheless, the effects of EMS on PhA have not been fully investigated.
Methods: Twelve healthy adult males participated in this study. PhA of the upper and lower limbs was measured at baseline, after a 4-week control period, after an 8-week EMS intervention, and following a 4-week detraining period. During the intervention period, EMS was applied to both thighs at the maximum tolerable intensity for 30 minutes per day, twice a week, for 8 weeks.
Results: Lower limb PhA significantly increased compared to baseline, after the EMS intervention compared to before the intervention, and after the detraining period compared to before the intervention. No significant changes were observed in upper limb PhA before and after the intervention.
Conclusion: Regular EMS applied to the lower limbs improves lower-limb phase angle in healthy adult males.
