Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Stimulation Increases Muscle Activity During Exercise in Sedentary People

Objectives: A pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) induces electric currents in biological tissue, enhancing muscle energy expenditure during heavy constant-load exercises. In this paper, we investigate the PEMF effect on muscular activation in male sedentary people. Methods: The surface electromyographic (EMG) activity of the right leg’s vastus medialis (RVM) and biceps femoris (RBF) muscles was recorded and analyzed. The root mean square values were normalized to the peak amplitude observed during maximal voluntary contraction. Measurements were taken at baseline (stationary seated position), during warm-up (unloaded cycling), and throughout 15 min of constant-load exercise performed at moderate intensity. Subjects performed two experimental conditions, when PEMF was turned ON versus OFF. Results: No significant difference was found during the baseline. The analysis during warm-up showed significant differences between conditions (ON vs. OFF) for both muscles (RVM p = 0.019; RBF p < 0.001). The analysis during constant-load exercise showed significant differences between conditions (ON vs. OFF) for RVM only (p = 0.002). Conclusions: This study provides evidence that PEMF stimulation acutely enhances muscle activation, primarily in the vastus medialis, with a comparatively smaller effect on the biceps femoris during moderate-intensity cycling in sedentary young men. The observed increase in EMG activity suggests that PEMF may facilitate neuromuscular excitability and muscle recruitment, potentially through mechanisms related to calcium signaling and enhanced muscle perfusion.