Jessica Alba Tried an Electrical Muscle Stimulation Workout

Learn more about the high-tech workout method.

In the realm of celebrity fitness, new and innovative workout techniques are always being explored. Case in point is Jessica Alba's recent experiment with electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) during her exercise routine. Her longtime trainer, Ramona Braganza, took to Instagram to share a glimpse of Alba using this cutting-edge fitness technology.

Braganza captioned the post, "Being a celebrity trainer for over two decades has let me introduce novel trends in the fitness industry to my clientele. The latest buzz is all about electro-muscle stimulation which is gaining immense popularity in Europe." She further explained, "EMS exercises use a spectrum of electric currents to induce muscle contractions. This leads to increased activation of muscle fibers, enhanced blood circulation throughout the body, and more calories burnt within a shorter span."

The accompanying image showcased Alba performing a squat while donning an EMS suit, which delivers specific electric currents. Braganza mentioned, "For my clients who have hectic schedules, it's crucial to make their health and fitness routines as convenient as possible."

Braganza informed Shape that this was Alba's maiden attempt with EMS. She emphasized her commitment to staying ahead with technological advancements in fitness, working with Wiemspro to achieve this. "Our first session involved testing the suit, which went successfully," she added. Braganza also noted, "Jessica has always been receptive to exploring new methodologies."

With EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation), you can intensify your workout routine in a limited time span, as Jessica Alba showcases in Braganza's social media post. This method involves wearing suit, vest or shorts that transmit electrical stimulation to extensive body areas while engaging in exercise. The electrical impulses lead to muscle contractions and greater muscle involvement, explains Blake Dircksen, D.P.T., C.S.C.S., a physical therapist at Bespoke Treatments, New York City.
EMS-based workouts are typically short, around 15 minutes, and include low-impact activities like planks, lunges, squats, as portrayed by Alba. Despite the minimal time frame for exercising, EMS makes each movement feel more challenging, accelerating fatigue. Post-workout soreness depends on multiple factors like work intensity, weights used, time duration, eccentric load, and if any movements were performed in new ranges, adds Dircksen.
Braganza suggests incorporating EMS training once or twice weekly, which is the "maximum recommended amount". She also warns about potential soreness from high-intensity EMS settings. Hence, her objective is to use EMS combined with other modalities.
If you have access to EMS technology, it might appear as an efficient way to accomplish gym workouts within a limited time. However, it's crucial to have realistic expectations as there is a lack of substantial research verifying the efficacy of EMS for workouts, says Jaclyn Fulop, M.S.P.T., founder of Exchange Physical Therapy Group. It's worth mentioning that misuse of unregulated EMS products can lead to burns, bruising, skin irritation, and pain, as per the Food & Drug Administration.
In conclusion, while there are definite advantages and disadvantages to using such advanced workout technology, if you're intrigued by Alba's technique, consider finding gyms equipped with EMS units or trainers who are proficient in using them.