Wet vs. Dry with EMS Training: Choosing the Right Approach

EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) training has gained popularity for its ability to deliver efficient and effective workouts. Traditionally, EMS Training has usually been delivered with a suit that has to be wet down with water. The water enables the electrical stimulation to conduct effectively from the electrodes to the skin and muscles. In more recent years, there have been significant advancements with “dry” EMS training technology and using suits that don’t need wetting down. In this article we will help you understand the difference between wet vs dry EMS training and which one is better suited for you.

One significant decision an investor needs to make is to choose between wet and dry EMS suits. Each approach has its pros and cons, and understanding them can help you make an informed decision for your business model.

What is an EMS Training Suit?

EMS training suits are a combination of a close fitting top and bottom (usually a vest and pair of shorts), made from breathable and flexible material. These are embedded with strategically placed electrodes which connect to a central control unit typically worn attached to your hip. This little unit is the powerhouse of EMS technology, acting as the control point for the electrical stimulation signals.

What is a Wet EMS Suit?

Known as the original EMS training suit, wet EMS suits require you to dampen them before wearing. The water acts as a conductor, helping electrical impulses reach your muscles more effectively.

Benefits & Disadvantages:

Pros:

1. Optimal Stimulation: Wet EMS Suits, when moistened with conductive gel or water, enhance the conductivity of electrical impulses, ensuring optimal stimulation of muscles during EMS training sessions.
2. Immediate Effectiveness: The wet system provides immediate and consistent stimulation from the first impulse, leading to quicker muscle activation and engagement.
3. More Economical: Wet undergarments are often cheaper than Dry Undergarments or Dry Suits for the client to purchase. 

Cons:

1. Messy Application: Applying conductive gel or water to EMS Suits can be messy and time-consuming, requiring additional preparation before each EMS session.
2. Time and Space: Wetting down a suit takes time and you need a dedicated space for that in your studio.
3. Maintenance Requirements: Wet EMS Suits need to be dried out properly in order to prevent odour and to ensure proper hygiene. 

What is a Dry EMS Suit?

The latest innovation in the EMS training community, dry EMS training suits use advanced electrode materials that don’t require water for conductivity. Typically, your sweat acts as enough of a conductor with this new technology.

Benefits & Disadvantages:

Pros:

1. Convenience and Customer Satisfaction: Dry EMS Suits eliminate the need for messy preparations with conductive gel or water, making them convenient and easy to use for EMS sessions. Also, clients prefer not to get wet.
2. Time-Saving: The absence of wetting down the EMS Suit saves time, allowing for more efficient and streamlined EMS workouts.
3. Stronger Stimulation: The dry stimulation in some Dry EMS Suits tends to be stronger when there is no need for an undergarment layer. 

Cons:

1. Reduced Initial Stimulation: Dry EMS Suits may provide slightly reduced initial stimulation compared to wet EMS Suits, as moisture enhances conductivity and muscle response. Sometimes the client needs to warm up for a couple of minutes. As the body temperature and moisture increases, so too does the stimulation. 
2. Adjustment Period: The trainer may need to reduce the stimulation once the client is warm. The Dry training can sometimes be a little more hands-on and require more interaction from the Trainer. 

Which EMS Training Approach is Right for You?

When deciding between wet and dry suits for EMS training, consider your priorities, preferences, and training goals:

• You prioritise convenience and comfort: A dry EMS suit may be the best choice for you.
• You prioritise a more intense experience and/or a lower cost: A wet EMS suit is likely the best choice for you.

Other Important Considerations:

• What is your target market? Most of the population prefer dry systems for convenience and a better overall stimulation. However, a small percentage the population (often over 70s) that cannot generate the body heat or moisture, may prefer a wet system (ie. in more clinical or rehabilitation sessions).
• If cost is a significant factor: Dry EMS Suits can be more expensive than Wet EMS Suits. If you are concerned that this cost may be a barrier to entry for some clients, then you may be best to choose a wet system.

Ultimately, both wet and dry EMS suits have their merits, and the choice depends on individual preferences. If you’re still not sure on the best approach for you or your business, contact us for more information and to learn about the range of XBODY systems available in Australia and New Zealand.