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Completed

NCT Number: NCT07394595

Upper Versus Lower Limb Cycling Exercise With Electrical Muscle Stimulation on Perceptual Responses, Energy Feelings

In comparing the two types of cycling exercises, the perceptual responses, such as perceived exertion and fatigue, as well as subjective feelings of energy, are crucial metrics. Lower limb cycling is traditionally associated with higher levels of exertion due to the larger muscle groups involved. However, when EMS is applied, both upper and lower limb cycling might exhibit altered perceptions of effort and energy levels, with EMS potentially equalizing the exertional differences. This research is significant for designing exercise programs that optimize energy expenditure and enhance performance, particularly in rehabilitative settings or for individuals looking to diversify their physical training regimens.

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Key information

Conditions

Healthy

Age range

18 year–50 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

faculty of physical therapy ,Cairo University

Cairo, 11311, Egypt

About this study

Perceptual responses, such as perceived exertion and enjoyment, play a critical role in exercise adherence and overall experience. By examining the differences in these responses between upper and lower limb cycling combined with EMS, we can identify which modality might be more favorable for maintaining motivation and engagement in young adults. This demographic is particularly crucial as they transition into lifelong fitness habits. Exploring how EMS impacts these perceptual responses can provide insights into optimizing exercise regimens for enhanced user experiences, potentially leading to better adherence and improved fitness outcomes.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Adults aged 18-45 years
  • No history of cardiovascular or musculoskeletal disorders
  • Physically active individuals with a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week

Exclusion criteria

  • Current use of medications affecting muscle function
  • Pregnant or lactating individuals
  • Involvement in other structured exercise programs

Treatment and study plan

Upper Limb Cycling with EMS

Other

Upper Limb Cycling with EMS: Participants will perform cycling exercises using an arm ergometer combined with EMS applied to the upper limbs. (Biceps, triceps, and deltoids) Jones et al., 2011

Lower Limb Cycling with EMS

Other

Lower Limb Cycling with EMS: Participants will engage in traditional cycling exercises using a stationary bike with EMS applied to the lower limbs. (Quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles)

EMS upper and lower

Other

EMS applied to the lower limbs. (Quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles) and EMS applied to the upper limbs. (Biceps, triceps, and deltoids)

Primary outcomes

  1. Perceptual Responses

    Time frame: at baseline and at 8 weeks

    Assessed using the Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale.

  2. Self-Perceived Energy Feeling

    Time frame: at baseline and at 8 weeks

    (All participants will fill a short questionnaire (from 1 to 5 points) about their perception of energy before every training. Energy Feeling will be assessed (Evergy level, Fatigue Level, Feeling of Alertness, and Feeling of Focus for the task, valued from 1 = low energy to 5 = high energy).

Secondary outcomes

  1. Perception of Effort during Endurance Training

    Time frame: at baseline and at 8 weeks

    (Borg Scale (6-20) will be used to collect the perception of effort during endurance training (every 5 minutes) and 15-20 minutes after each session).

  2. Blood lactate concentration

    Time frame: at baseline and at 8 weeks

    measured using capillary puncture during submaximal and maximal incremental exercise

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

MTI University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Upper Versus Lower Limb Cycling Exercise With Electrical Muscle Stimulation on Perceptual Responses, Energy Feelings in Young Adults

Important dates

Study start
2026
Primary completion
2026
Study completion
2026
First posted
Feb 6, 2026
Registry last updated
Mar 17, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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