| We
studied the effects of self-administered neuromuscular electrical
stimulation (NMES) on changes in strength, endurance, selected anthropometric
measures, and subject's perceived shape and satisfaction of the abdominal
wall. Twenty-four adults (experimental group) stimulated their abdominals
5 days per week (20-40 minutes per session) for 8 weeks and refrained
from engaging in any additional exercise during the study. A control
group (N=16) refrained from exercising the abdominals or engaging
in any other exercise training during the study. Subjects were tested
at the beginning, mid-point, and end of the study. Isometric strength
of the abdominal muscles was tested using a isokinetic dynamometer,
endurance was measured using the ACSM curl-up test, abdominal circumference
was measured using a steel tape measure, and body shape and satisfaction
were assessed via questionnaire. The stimulation group had a 58% increase
in abdominal strength, whereas the control group did not change. The
stimulation group also had a 100% increase in abdominal endurance
versus a 28% increase in the control group. Waist circumference decreased
by of 3.5 cm in the stimulation group compared to no significant change
in the control group. All 24 subjects in the stimulation group felt
that their midsections were more "toned" and "firmed"
and 13/24 (54%) felt that their posture had improved as a result of
the stimulation. None of the control group subjects reported changes
in these parameters. There were no significant differences in body
weight, BMI, or skinfold thickness over the course of the study in
either group. NMES, as used in the current study, resulted in significant
improvements in the muscular strength and endurance of the abdominal
region, as well as subject's perceived shape and satisfaction of the
mid-section.
KEY
WORDS: Fitness, training, isometric.
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