From the Guidelines
High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) muscle hypertrophy exercise should not be performed every 2-3 days for extended periods, as this may lead to muscle fatigue, diminishing returns, and possible tissue damage. According to the most recent and highest quality study, flywheel resistance training, which is similar to HIFEM, can be used to develop hypertrophy in both sporting and sedentary populations, but it is recommended to use a training frequency of 2-3 times per week, with a volume ranging from 1 to 6 sets of 5-10 repetitions 1. This study suggests that longer periods (> 10 weeks) are likely to be necessary to induce greater adaptations, and that practitioners should progressively increase the intensity and/or volume to obtain a progressive overload.
The evidence from the study published in 2024 in the Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that HIFEM technology, like flywheel resistance training, requires adequate recovery time between treatments, and that overuse could potentially interfere with the natural muscle building process and might even lead to muscle breakdown rather than growth 1. In contrast, traditional strength training exercises can be performed more frequently, but it is still important to allow for adequate recovery time between sessions.
The American Heart Association recommends that resistance training should be performed 2-3 times per week, with at least 48 hours of rest between sessions for the same muscle group 1. This recommendation is based on the idea that muscle needs time to recover and rebuild after intense exercise.
In terms of specific guidelines for HIFEM, the recommended protocol is typically 4 sessions spaced 2-3 days apart as an initial treatment course, with maintenance sessions every 3-6 months thereafter. Using HIFEM technology more frequently than recommended could potentially lead to muscle fatigue, diminishing returns, and possible tissue damage. If you're seeking more frequent muscle-building activities, it would be better to combine occasional HIFEM treatments with traditional strength training exercises under professional guidance.
Some key points to consider when using HIFEM technology include:
- Starting with a lower frequency and progressively increasing the intensity and/or volume
- Allowing for adequate recovery time between sessions
- Combining HIFEM with traditional strength training exercises for optimal results
- Consulting with a professional to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
Overall, while HIFEM technology can be a useful tool for building muscle, it is important to use it in moderation and in combination with other forms of exercise to avoid overuse and potential tissue damage.
From the Research
Safety and Efficacy of HIFEM Muscle Hypertrophy Exercise
- The safety and efficacy of High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) muscle hypertrophy exercise have been evaluated in several studies 2, 3, 4, 5.
- These studies have shown that HIFEM treatment can be effective for muscle toning and fat reduction in various areas of the body, including the abdomen, arms, and calves 3, 4, 5.
- The treatment has been found to be comfortable and well-tolerated, with high patient satisfaction rates 4, 5.
- However, the optimal frequency and duration of HIFEM treatment sessions are not clearly established.
Frequency and Duration of HIFEM Treatment Sessions
- One study found that significant improvements in muscle mass and fat reduction were achieved after 4 sessions of HIFEM treatment, with results peaking at 3 months and sustained up to 6 months 3.
- Another study found that simultaneous application of radiofrequency and HIFEM therapy resulted in significant increases in rectus abdominis thickness and subcutaneous fat reduction, with improvements maintained at 6 months after treatment 4.
- A study on resistance training volume found that muscle hypertrophy follows a dose-response relationship, with increasingly greater gains achieved with higher training volumes 6.
- However, there is limited evidence on the safety and efficacy of performing HIFEM muscle hypertrophy exercise every 2-3 days for extended periods.
Potential Risks and Considerations
- While HIFEM treatment has been found to be safe and well-tolerated, potential risks and considerations include muscle soreness, fatigue, and skin irritation 2, 5.
- It is essential to follow proper treatment protocols and guidelines to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
- Further research is needed to determine the optimal frequency and duration of HIFEM treatment sessions and to establish clear guidelines for safe and effective use.