Frequently Asked Questions
NMES & GENERAL INFO
What is nmes (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation)?
NMES is the activation of muscle contraction using electrical impulses. These mimic the messages that come from the central nervous system enabling the muscle to contract. By increasing the intensity of the stimulation from our devices more muscle fibres can be recruited for a more sustained period during any one cycle of muscle contraction. See our blogpost for more information about muscle stimulation: What is neuromuscular electrical stimulation?
What are the benefits of NMES?
NMES when used according to instructions, optimizes the benefits of training. NMES is a non-invasive training and workout system which can be an adjunct to voluntary training. Without the need for weights NMES can enhance muscle performance through strength, endurance and resistance training whilst avoiding stress to the joints. Post-training fatigue can be minimized in addition to preventing training plateaus.
What does NMES feel like?
Depending on the program choice and intensity of stimulation used, NMES sensation can range from slight twitching to a full tetanic contraction.
Who can use NMES?
NMES is suitable for atheletes, keen sports people and for anyone wishing to improve their general wellbeing. diPulse is a platform designed to assist the user in reaching their individual training goals.
Can I build muscle with NMES?
With the ability to contract a muscle for a more sustained period during a stimulation cycle, NMES can build overall performance. By gradually increasing the intensity of the stimulation, as part of your training programme, more muscle fibres can be recruited during each muscle contraction which can lead to improved muscle development.
Can I damage my muscle fibers?
diPulse programmes are designed to provide warm up, training and cool down phases which support muscle integrity. It is important to gradually build up your training tolerance and stimulation intensity to ensure your body adapts healthily to the exercises you are performing. Over training or too high intensities may lead to Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOM's).
Is it normal to experience twitching during the rest phases within the programs?
Yes this is perfectly normal - it allows muscle relaxation between the workout phases to enhance the effect of training
Are there any contraindications to using NMES?
Our diPulse User Manual outlines a list of contraindications to NMES. If you are in any doubt : Please consult your doctor before using the device.
I have very dry skin, is that a problem when using the diPulse system?
Dry skin could create an insulating effect to the current. Always ensure good contact between the carbon electrode and the skin. Fill the conductive mist bottle with water, spray the carbon electrode and the skin area it contacts to ensure optimal conductivity.
Why do I have to use the water mist spray?
Water creates the important contact between the carbon electrode and the skin. Inadequate conductivity due to poor contact reduces the stimulation efficiency.
Where do I have to spray the water?
Dampening the carbon electrodes and the skin contact area before putting on the garments will ensure good electrode conductivity.
Can I use too much water?
No. It is better to use too much water than not enough. Inadequate contact between the skin and the carbon electrodes reduces the stimulation efficiency
Is the level of stimulation intensity the same for everyone?
Everyone has their own level of tolerance and sensitivity based on numerous physiological factors. No two people will experience stimulation intensity the same which is why it is important to only increase your training with diPulse gradually to allow your body to adapt at its own rate.
Can anyone use the programs?
The diPulse programs have been designed to suit all aspects of physical training - from sport and fitness to massage and wellbeing, thereby ensuring its suitablity for all adult age groups. Users under the age of 18 should do so under adult supervision
PRODUCTS
How do I position the SMARTBELT correctly?
The SMARTBELT is designed to be placed over either the abdominals or the lower back. On both of these placements it is important that the belt is placed in the centre of the body segment.
How do I place the SMARTSTRAPS correctly?
The SMARTSTRAP is best placed with the flag directly over the middle of your muscle and with the SMARTSTIM MODULE turned outwards from your body.
How do I place the SMARTKNEE correctly on my knee?
When using the SMARTKNEE the “dP”logo should be positioned directly over your knee cap.
Do I wet the SMARTSUIT before or after I have it on?
Only wet the skin surface of the muscle group and carbon electodes you want to stimulate, ideally before wearing the suit. Once wearing the SMARTSUIT it is possible to wet the electrodes externally if more moisture is required.
How do I wash the SMARTSUIT and can it be washed with other items?
Please find washing instructions on a label inside the SMARTSUIT. The SMARTSUIT may be washed with other items.
Is there anything I have to do before using the SMARTSUIT for the first time?
Rubbing clean the SMARTSTIM MODULE magnetic connectors found on the SMARTSUIT before first use will remove any production residue and allow for unimpeded connectivity.
Is there a correct way to attach the SMARTHEART monitor?
No. Providing it is fully clipped on it will function optimally.
LED is flashing red on my SMARTSTIM MODULE - what does this mean?
The SMARTSTIM battery needs charging, please plug in your SMARTSTIM MODULE to the charging station.
LED is flashing quickly in red on my SMARTSTIM MODULE - what does this mean?
A problem has been detected in the hardware. Try restarting the device. If the problem persists please contact diPulse for assistance.
No heart rate is detected through my SMARTHEART monitor- what does this mean?
Conductivity may be an issue. Remove and replace the SMARTHEART monitor from the magnetic connectors, ensuring they are firmly reconnected. Wet the carbon electrode and skin contact area to improve conductivity.
How long does it take to charge the SMARTSTIM MODULES?
It typically takes 90 minutes for a full module to charge.
Can I overcharge the SMARTSTIM MODULES?
It isn't possible to overcharge the modules - they will indicate a full charge when the green light stops flashing
How do I know when the SMARTSTIM MODULE is fully charged?
Once the SMARTSTIM MODULES are fully charged the green light will stop flashing.
BLUETOOTH
Why does my Bluetooth sometimes not connect to the SMARTSTIM MODULES I'm using?
If the SMARTSTIM MODULES not in use are left in the charging station, theycan also be recognised by your Bluetooth device. Please remove the SMARTSTIM MODULES from the charging station after they are charged and not in use.
Why is my Bluetooth not working?
The diPulse app requires permission to use Bluetooth while connecting to the SMARTSTIM MODULE. Turn on Bluetooth from your mobile settings and enable diPulse to connect. Always ensure your Bluetooth and location are enabled within the mobile settings while connecting to your diPulse devices.
Why does my Bluetooth keep disconnecting?
Mobile devices have certain limitations when multiple Bluetooth connections are active. Other Bluetooth devices may disrupt the connection to the diPulse App. To avoid disconnection, the diPulse SMARTSTIM MODULES should be the only Bluetooth devices connected to the mobile app during use.
Why can't I connect all my SMARTSTIM MODULES?
Due to safety reasons some programs are restricted to use a limited number of SMARTSTIM MODULES. In this case the diPulse App will limit the number of SMARTSTIM MODULES the user can connect to ensuring safe use of the product.
Can I use Android or iOS?
Yes both iOS and Android are compatible for the diPulse App.
Can I use any smart watch device?
Apple Smart Watch can be used with Apple iPhone and Android smart watch can be used with an Android Smart Phone.
STIMULATION & APP
Can I use too high stimulation intensities and cause damage?
diPulse programs are designed with user safety in mind however it is advised that stimulation intensity is gradually increased during the contraction period, so that the body has time to adapt. To ensure user total control over stimulation intensity, when the program moves from warm up to workout the intensity is automatically reduced by 50%. Once in the workout phase the intensity can then be incresed accordingly. If a program is paused or skipped, intensity will automatically be reduced by by 50%.
Why does the intensity drop when I go from Warm up to Workout in the training programs?
The workout phase is designed to be more intense for the purpose of muscle training than the warm up and cool-down phases. Stimulation intensity drops automatically during the transition from warm up to workout by 50% as a protective feature from diPulse. You should alway begin programs on low stimulation intensity and gradually increase to the desired level.
Why does the intensity drop when I press Pause and then Resume?
diPulse programs should always be increased gradually when starting a training session. If a program is paused then the stimulation intensity drops by 50% when resumed to allow for a gradual restarting period, giving the user full control once again over the stimulation intensity.
Why don't I feel a good muscle reaction even when I increase the intensity above 30?
Inadequate contact between the skin and the carbon electrodes reduces the stimulation efficiency. Please use water to wet the electrode and the underlying skin.
My SMARTSTIM MODULES are not synchronized, how do I re-synchronize them?
There is a Sync option in the diPulse app on your smartphone. Synchronization can be restored by selecting this option.
How many programs can I use at once?
Only one program can be running at a time.
How many muscle groups can I stimulate during one training session?
A maximum of 4 SMARTSTIM MODULES can be used at any one time, stimulating a maximum of two different muscle groups (left & right sides).
How do I update my SMARTSTIM MODULE?
On the main menu page on your diPulse app press the settings icon in the top right corner, scroll down to the option update firmware. Turn on your SMARTSTIM MODULE(S) and select update all - here your modules can be updated. Allow the modules to update to 100%
Why don't I feel a good muscle reaction even when I increase the intensity above 30?
Inadequate contact between the skin and the carbon electrodes reduces the stimulation efficiency. Please use water to wet the electrode and the underlying skin.
Why can I only skip phases in certain programs?
The programs within the category Sports & Fitness are all training programs . Training sessions with diPulse include a warm up, workout and cool-down phase. If you have already warmed up, or wish to finish the current active phase of the training program, you have the option to skip through this stage and progress to the next one.
What is the function of the grouping option when you are stimulating several muscle groups simultaneously?
Selecting Add Group option on your diPulse app enables the intensity of multiple SMARTSTIM MODULE to be controlled together.By using the ALL UNITS option and then +/- buttons you can increase or decrease stimulation for all units simulateously.
Why do my SMARTSTIM MODULES sometimes disconnect when I’m using them?
Bluetooth connection devices can be subject to interference from other Bluetooth units with mobile connections, sometimes from devices used externally by other mobile users. Disconnecting other Bluetooth devices or using a maximum of two SMARTSTIM modules at the same time can mitigate this issue.
training
What is CMT (Combined Muscle Training)?
CMT refers to the user performing active movement or exercise whilst using NMES to boost the effects of training alone. See our blogpost for more information about CMT: What is CMT?
Why is the CMT program limited to 10 cycles?
Limiting the number of cycles helps protect the user from over-training and the potential of DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness).
Can I overtrain with diPulse?
First time users of diPulse are initially recommended to use modified levels of intensity to avoid Delayed Onset Muscle Sorenes. (DOMS). Stimulation intensity should be increased gradually.
I perspire very heavily when I workout. Is this dangerous?
No, not at all. Contrary to existing products on the market, diPulse garments perform better when there is increased moisture between the skin and the carbon electrodes. Sweating during your workout will improve conductivity for the electrical current. Sweating profusely while using the adhesive gel-pads may however impede their attachment to the skin.
Is there a risk of developing muscle imbalance?
Like with every exercise program you should always focus on full function and consider the whole body when training
Can I train with diPulse everyday?
Although NMES offers an efficient and intensive way to train, muscle revival is an important aspect to include in your program. Frequency of training will depend upon the physical conditioning of the user. Three training sessions weekly is generally considered intensive use.
Are there any risks training with diPulse?
diPulse offers a unique way to challenge your muscles without stressing the joints with weights. Gradually increasing stimulation intensity is the safest way to progress your training program.
What Intensity should I use during training?
This depends on the individual's tolerance and sensitivity. The muscle contraction should feel strong and intense but not painful.
Is it essential to do the Warm-up program?
As with all physical activity, warming up prepares the muscles and joints for training and therefore it is important to factor this into your program to minimise the risk of muscle damage.
Is it essential to do the Cool-down program?
Cooling-down after exercise helps reduce post-training muscle fatigue and provides a relaxing effect to help retutn the muscle to it's resting state.
Is it normal to have red patches on the skin after training?
Red patches (erythema) following training sessions with muscle stimulation can occur as a result of increased blood circulation under the electrodes. This is a normal but transient bodily response to muscle activation.
What happens if I feel a burning sensation under the carbon electrode? Is this normal?
A burning sensation can occur when the carbon electrode has become too dry and conductivity is reduced. To avoid this, always spray the carbon electrode and the underlying skin with water before beginning a training session.
Can I re-attach a SMARTSTIM MODULE if it falls off during training?
Yes you can re-attach a SMARTSTIM MODULE during training. It will automatically reconnect at the full level of intensity.
How wet does the carbon electrode have to be?
The more moist the carbon and underlying skin, the better the conductivity.
Why do I experience a difference in stimulation through the garment despite having the same intensity?
The carbon electrode may not be sufficiently moist or positioned accurately on the skin. Dampen the electrode and check it is positioned correctly.
How often can I train with diPulse?
Although NMES offers an efficient and intensive way to train, muscle revival is an important aspect to include in your program. Frequency of training will depend upon the physical conditioning of the user. 3 times weekly is generally considered intensive use.
Can I move freely whilst using the products?
Our products are designed to allow full and free movement during all of your workouts.
I feel some discomfort during the stimulation especially when I increase the intensity.
Inadequate contact between the skin and the carbon electrodes reduces the stimulation efficiency and can cause an uncomfortable sensation. Adding moisture to the area of the skin under the electrode and to the surface of the electrode will ensure good conductivity.
Are there any dangers when training with NMES?
diPulse muscle stimulation is designed with muscle integrity at the forefront. Improving muscle strength without impacting or loading the joints offers enhanced joint stabilty as well as building muscle safely. Increasing stimulation intensity too quickly may cause Delayed Muscle Onset Soreness and over-training can have adverse health effects. Only increase stimulation intensity gradually to allow your body time to adapt to your training program. If you have any doubts about your physical fitness or contraindications for use, please consult your doctor.