Pilates with whole body electromyostimulation exercise produces high levels of muscle damage

Abstract

Objectives The use of whole body-electrostimulation (WB-EMS) in combination with strength exercises has been proposed in order to improve muscle strength and rehabilitation. However, the combination of stimulation of muscle with exercise can induce muscle fibers break. This manuscript study Pilates Mat without or in combination with WB-EMS in trained individuals in order to determine the level of muscle damage. Methods We determined the effect of WB-EMS in combination of Pilates Mat in eighteen healthy and trained Intermediate Pilates Mat volunteers to determine the release of muscle damage biomarkers in plasma. Plasma levels of muscle damage markers (CK and transaminases) were determined by enzymatic assays. Results We found that WB-EMS produced a high rise of the release of creatine kinase and transaminases in individuals whereas Pilates Mat did not produce such as effect. The levels of CK in plasma were very high indicating dangerous levels near rhabdomyolysis. This effect was not accompanied by a rise in oxidative stress damage. Conclusions Our results indicate that WB-EMS must be used with precaution in trained and more importantly in non-trained individuals in order to avoid severe muscle damage.