What to Expect with your First EMS Training Session

What to Expect at an EMS Training Session

Whether you're new to the concept or have tried it before, understanding what happens during an EMS session will help you feel more comfortable and prepared to get the most out of your experience. First time sessions will typically be longer at 45-60 minutes, while subsequent sessions will run 30 minutes. 
Here’s what you can expect during an EMS training session:

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

Before your first EMS training session, you may have an initial consultation with a trainer or Coach. During this consultation:
Health History Review: The trainer will ask about your health, fitness goals, and any previous injuries or conditions that may affect your ability to use EMS. This helps ensure that EMS is right for you and that the session is tailored to your needs.
Goal Setting: Whether your goal is to build muscle, improve endurance, or recover from an injury, your trainer will discuss your objectives and design a personalized EMS session that aligns with your goals.
Electrode Placement: Your trainer will demonstrate the proper placement of the electrodes based on your targeted muscle groups. This is crucial for ensuring effective stimulation.

2. Getting Ready for Your EMS Session

Once you’ve done your consultation, signed the waiver, and have been briefed on EMS technology, you’ll be ready to suit up. There are 2 parts to the EMS suit set up. An under layer (called DryWear) and an outer layer (called the Training Suit).
The first part of suiting up will be putting on the DryWear. A team member will help to determine the right sizing and provide you with a top and bottom DryWear to change into. The DryWear will have electrode pads on them and are designed to be placed over each major muscle and have direct contact with your skin. It is important that these electrode pads touch your skin so that the EMS system works most effectively for the best desired results. (Note: it is highly recommended that no underwear garment or bra be worn under the DryWear)  
The second part of the suit is the outer layer, or Training Suit, which will go over the DryWear.  A team member will help to put the Training Suit on and adjust/tighten to make sure everything is connected properly for a comfortable and snug fit. Once the Training Suit is set up, you will be ready for the Trainer to calibrate the Suit to the system.

3. Calibration

For first time users, the trainer will take a few extra minutes to calibrate the Suit to the system. This means, setting each muscle group to a desired comfort level. Once calibration is complete, the training session can begin.

4. Starting the EMS Session

When the session begins, the EMS device will be turned on, and electrical impulses will begin to flow through the electrodes to stimulate your muscles. Here's what you can expect during the process:
Gradual Intensity Increase: The electrical impulses will initially start at a low intensity to allow you to get used to the sensation. Over time, the intensity may be gradually increased as you become more comfortable.
Muscle Contractions: The primary sensation you’ll feel is a muscle contraction. The electrical pulses cause your muscles to contract and relax in a rhythmic pattern, similar to how your muscles contract during regular exercise.
Varying Sensations: You may experience a tingling or pulsing sensation during the session. Most people describe the feeling as similar to an intense workout, but without the strain. If the sensation becomes uncomfortable or painful, notify your trainer, who can adjust the settings.

4. The Workout Routine

During an EMS session, you’ll typically engage in a combination of:
Static and Dynamic Exercises: Some EMS training sessions involve simply having the muscles stimulated while you remain still, while others combine muscle stimulation with physical movements or exercises. For example, you might perform squats, lunges, or core exercises while the EMS device targets your muscles for added stimulation.
Targeted Muscle Groups: Your trainer will focus the electrical impulses on specific muscle groups, depending on your fitness goals. Whether you're looking to target your arms, legs, abs, or back, EMS can help engage muscles that are sometimes hard to activate through conventional exercises.
Low to Moderate-Intensity Workouts: Since EMS works by stimulating muscles, your body doesn’t need to work as hard as during traditional workouts. However, the electrical impulses provide an added intensity to your muscles, so the workout feels more challenging even if you're performing fewer reps or lighter exercises.

5. Duration of the Session

EMS sessions typically last between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your goals and fitness level. Your trainer will allow for breaks based on the clients needs or fitness level. 
Note: If at any time, you feel discomfort or pain, it is important to let your trainer know as they can adjust intensity levels or allow for breaks.

6. Post-Session Recovery

Once your training session is complete, a Team member will help take off the Training Suit. After the Training Suit has been removed, you are free to change and take off the DryWear. A Team member will direct you to where to put your DryWear. 

After your EMS training session, you may experience some muscle soreness, similar to the sensation felt after an intense workout. However, the recovery process is usually faster due to improved circulation and muscle relaxation. 

Here's what you can expect after the session:
Muscle Fatigue: It’s normal to feel fatigued after a session as your muscles or unused muscle have been intensely activated. You might also experience a slight burning or tightening sensation in the targeted muscles.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water after your session to help flush out toxins and support muscle recovery.
Stretching: Your trainer may guide you through gentle stretching exercises to help ease any tightness and improve flexibility.