A study exploring the mechanisms behind why cognitive performance improves in response to exercise, has revealed forced muscle movement doesn't have the same effect as voluntary. Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is often used in physiotherapy and rehabilitation to help loosen tight muscles so they can recover. Devices trigger nerves that make muscles contract, ultimately relaxing and loosening tight spots.
Many gyms have also introduced EMS Training—which involves a person wearing similar devices during a workout—to help recruit more muscle fibers. Scientists have now investigated whether electrical muscle stimulation results in improved cognitive function, in the same way voluntary movement does. As part of the study, experiments were carried out with 24 young, healthy male participants.
Individuals were asked to complete cognitive tasks at rest and while cycling. They then had to do the same tasks with and without EMS being applied to the lower limb muscles. Participants completed the tasks quicker when voluntary moderate-intensity exercise was done.
This was not the case though during low-intensity exercise, and when only forced electrical stimulation was used. Co-author Dr. Joe Costello, from the University's School of Psychology, Sport and Health Sciences, said, "Our results suggest that the relationship between exercise and is crucial for faster reaction time.
Forcing the muscles to move using an electrical current takes away this connection, and as a result part.