I used an EMS device (Electric Muscle Stimulator) for almost a year a while back...and I'm thinking about ordering another one.

I know it sounds gimmiky most people say they're a waste of time...but it actually worked for me. So well in fact that I hurt myself. (More on that later)

I started using it because I had injured myself wrestling. I don't remember that brand or where I got it from but it came in a green plastic case with four pads...and even though it took a while to get used to it, the results were actually amazing. It only seems to work in places where you have low body fat but it contracts, holds, and releases the muscle leaving me pretty sore the next day.

After about six months I went back to the gym, did my cardio and decided to attempt some pull ups. I used to max out at around 6 but this time I kept going....10.....15....20........25....28.......and then my shoulder gave out. I tore something and was in extruciating pain for over a week.

The EMS machine worked...it gave me a lot of defination and serious strength, but my strength was almost artifical and wasn't to the core.

But now I'm thinking about ordering one again...I mean it worked, and if I continue to work out naturally and just use it as a suppliment it seems like a good idea.

Any thoughts?

Any idea where to get a good one for cheap?

sounds dangerous, ive always been scared of those things, they sound to good to be true. Anybody know what the science behind those are?

The "As Seen on TV" or belt-style ones don't work. But the one that I used with the stick on pads looks more like the ones used in rehab and it worked for me...I can't find the one I bought before. But this is the one I'm considering now. Vital Stim EMS (http://www.vitalitywebb.com/backstore/ems.htm?NexTag)

It looks simular the the one I had before, but this one has an AC Adapter which is good because I'd go through 9V batteries like crazy and those things were expensive!

I believe Waterbury has commented about them on t-nation and the types that are actually useful are seriously powerful and usually can only be found in the university / lab setting.

I ended up buying the Vital Stim EMS a few months ago and it works great...........although I havn't been using it.

I'd rather just lift my free weights at home or go to the gym than put the machine on. But for those looking for one, I'd reccomend it. The AC adapter works great but really hinders your movement since the cord is only 4ft long.