What if I told you that you could achieve a full-body strength and cardio workout in just 20 minutes, with the same results as spending hours in the gym? It may sound too good to be true, but after experiencing Electro-Muscle Stimulation (EMS) training at a BODY20 studio in Des Peres, I can assure you: this futuristic fitness trend is a game-changer in time management.
Initially developed in Europe in the 1970s for elite athletes, EMS has evolved significantly. Fast-forward to 2007, and Germany was buzzing with personal training studios offering EMS workouts to the general public. The concept quickly spread across international markets before making its U.S. debut in 2017, when BODY20 opened its first studio in South Florida. Now, it's slowly becoming the go-to for time-strapped professionals, new moms, fitness newbies, and even rehab clients.
So, what exactly is EMS training?
Using wearable technology, EMS sends low-level electrical impulses to your muscles, stimulating them to contract—a lot. In just one 20-minute session, your muscles can fire up to 36,000 times. Compare that to the 1,000 or so contractions you'd get in a typical 90-minute gym workout, and you begin to understand why this tech is turning heads. The best part? There's no heavy lifting, no high-impact jumping, and absolutely no strain on your joints. Just effective, efficient, muscle-engaging movement.
As a Certified Exercise Physiologist, the science checked out. But still, I wasn't sure what to expect when I walked into the studio. Let me tell you—it felt more like stepping into a boutique wellness spa from the future than a traditional gym. Think sleek design, a pristine space, and a warm welcome from staff who really know their stuff.
After a thorough introduction, I suited up. The EMS gear is a comfortable and safe suit that fits snugly, allowing for a full range of motion. Within moments, I could feel my muscles firing like never before. The movements themselves were simple—lunges, squats, some light upper body work—but the sensation? Totally new. It was like a workout and a wake-up call rolled into one. Two days later, my muscles still had that satisfying post-workout ache that says, "Yep, you did something good."
After my session, I spoke with Tristina Phelps, the studio owner, and Josh, the General Manager. What stood out most was the technology's inclusivity. They've worked with clients across the spectrum, from athletes looking to break through plateaus to individuals recovering from injury to those who have struggled with traditional training methods. Joint pain, poor posture, muscle imbalances—they've seen EMS help with it all. It's not magic—it's just smart science, made incredibly user-friendly.
Here's the thing: if you've ever said you don't have time for the gym, hate the intimidation factor of lifting weights, or want a low-impact option that actually builds strength, you owe it to yourself to give EMS a shot.
It's efficient. It's high-tech. It may feel a bit unusual at first. But one thing's for sure-it delivers results.
Consider this your invitation to try something different. Because 20 minutes might be all you need to change your fitness routine—and your results—for good.
Join me at Body20 studio's one-year anniversary on September. And follow me @ktelizabethwellness for more ways to become Strong By Intention.