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The OHM Effect

A fast 25-minute EMS workout where the suit is your gym, delivering strength and mobility.

Just over a year after opening, OHM Fitness has become one of Columbia’s most unique and effective wellness studios. With 25-minute classes that deliver full-body results, OHM has tapped into what so many people want today—a fitness routine that feels doable, sustainable, and genuinely effective.

For anyone new to the concept, EMS stands for Electrical Muscle Stimulation. During a workout, members wear OHM’s emPower bodysuit, which uses gentle electrical impulses to activate muscles more deeply than traditional exercise. In simple terms, it helps your muscles work smarter—allowing a short session to feel like hours in the gym.

Owner Tracy Barnes says this technology has been a game-changer for busy people who want to feel better without rearranging their entire day. “People want to take back their time,” she says. First-timers walk out surprised by how quickly they feel a difference. “If someone’s unsure, I tell them to jump in. It changes your body fast.”

This year brought big upgrades, including OHM’s new V2 emPower suits—similar in look, but more durable and designed for an even smoother workout. Members often say the suit is your gym, and now OHM offers the option to purchase a personal suit for at-home training.

Programming continues to evolve, with a new Pilates class becoming an instant favorite. OHM also keeps members motivated with Styku body scans that show steady fat loss, increased muscle mass, and improved mobility. Red light therapy has also gained popularity, supporting recovery while noticeably improving skin tone and firmness.

The most meaningful changes, though, happen in everyday life. Tracy hears from members who are moving better, feeling stronger, and experiencing renewed confidence. One member in his 70s called OHM “life-changing.” Others appreciate the skin-tightening benefits, especially those using weight-loss medications or navigating aging.

This year, Tracy is excited for what’s next: new technology, expanding services, and a growing community. “Everybody has a home at OHM,” she says. “Wherever you’re starting, we’re here to help you feel your best.”

OHM Fitness • 1406 Forum Blvd Unit #101, Columbia, MO • (573) 397-7934

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