Muscle AtrophyEasymotion-2NCT06492057
Electromyostimulation (EMS) of Astronauts in Spaceflight (Easymotion-2)
A study testing Electromyostimulation (EMS), Myoton and Electromyography (EMG) in people with Muscle Atrophy and Myotonia, run by Charite University, Berlin, Germany at 1 site in Germany.
Trial summary
This is a prospective spaceflight study involving an investigational non-risk device called the EasyMotionSkin for whole body electric muscle (myo) stimulation (WB-EMS) onboard the International Space Station (ISS). Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 40 to 60 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Muscle Atrophy, Myotonia, Stiffness; Spine
- What is being tested?
- Electromyostimulation (EMS), Myoton and Electromyography (EMG)
- Type of treatment
- Medical device
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 12 participants
- Where
- 1 siteGermany
- Study dates
- 15 Sep 2025to 31 Dec 2029
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 40 to 60 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Astronauts with active Flight Medical
Who cannot join
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Diabetes
- Thrombosis
- Extreme blood pressure
- Abdominal \& inguinal hernias (bulges)
Show all 9Show fewer
- Strong neurological diseases
- Pregnancy
- Cancer
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Germany1 site
Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Mitte, State of Berlin, 10117
About this study
Official title: ElectroMyoStimulation (EMS Body Suit) Protocol to Improve Exercise Outcome in Space Missions (EasyMotion-2)
This is a prospective spaceflight study involving an investigational non-risk device called the EasyMotionSkin for whole body electric muscle (myo) stimulation (WB-EMS) onboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The purpose of this study is to show:
Read more
- optimized exercise outcome with EMS in human spaceflight
- demonstrate efficacy of EMS as alternative inflight exercise protocol
- provide a time-saving and reliable EMS-assisted exercise protocol compliant to astronauts for later use in planetary habitats and future deep space exploration
Eight (n=8) astronauts on long duration missions will take part in this study. This experiment uses the following hardware/software (HW \& SW): (A) EasymotionSkin suit (dry electrode muscle stimulation), B) non-invasive hand-held Myoton device (digitized passive muscle stiffness data collection). C) a customized Myoton body template suit (elastic yoga suit with customized anatomical reference labels to aid inflight Myoton data collection on dedicated perforated 2x2 cm small skin fields) at 5 different skin measurement points (MP), neck, back, shoulder, legs.
Before and after flight the following tests will be done once: Myoton data collection, dynamometry strength test, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for baseline comparison. Researchers will compare data from a non EMS control group (non EMS Astronauts, retrospective) to see if changes of passive muscle stiffness is seen in EMS Astronauts before, during and after spaceflight
Read the detailed description
In a previous space analog study (60 days reactive jumps on a sledge during bed rest immobilisation, Cologne, Germany, 2015) on n=24 voluntary participants followed by an experiment on the International Space Station, ISS (MYOTONES 2015-2023) the investigators used non-invasive Myoton technology (Myoton device) to detect digital biomarkers (passive muscle tone and stiffness) on twelve (n=12) study participants together with clinical imaging (MRI), muscle strength tests (dynamometry), and blood samples (biosamples) to study muscle properties and adaptation in microgravity following routine inflight exercise in ISS Astronauts. One of the MYOTONES ISS Astronaut already tested a space-qualified EasymotionSkin suit (Demo-Tech Experiment, German Aerospace Agency, Deutsches Zentrum fuer Luft- und Raumfahrt, DLR, 2022) that was used for about 20 minutes on top of the daily routine exercise protocol in order to optimize inflight training outcome by EMS technology in spaceflight. Preliminary results (n=1) showed feasibility of the novel EMS technology in spaceflight and suggested improved muscle health parameters (increased tone and stiffness) found in some muscle from torso (lower back) and limbs compared to a non-EMS mission crewmember. Easymotion-2 is designed to replicate similar changes in inflight passive muscle parameters (resembling muscle health) in eight (n=8) more ISS Astronauts for robust statistical analyses and interpretation. Pre and postflight baseline data collections with Myoton technology (passive tone [Hz] and stiffness [N/m]) serve as control for comparison. Protocol and recruitment of healthy study participants (male or female Astronauts) is under control by NASA via Informed Consent Briefing standardized procedures.
- Conditions
- Muscle Atrophy, Myotonia, Stiffness; Spine, Exercise Overtraining
- Being tested
- Electromyostimulation (EMS), Myoton, Electromyography (EMG), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Dynamometry
- Keywords
- skeletal muscle, passive muscle stiffness, muscle health, electromyostimulation, space flight, countermeasure
- Medical subject headings
- Muscular Atrophy, Myotonia, Overtraining Syndrome
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Electromyostimulation (EMS)Device
Also called EMS body muscle stimulation
EasymotionSkin body suit for digitally controlled electric impulses via Easymotion-2 software on crew iPad (frequency, impulse rate, duration) are transferred from integrated dry electrodes of the EMS- stimulation suit to activate surface muscle groups of the body (trunk), arms and legs
MyotonDevice
Also called passive muscle properties
The non-invasive Myoton technology collects data from passive muscle properties (tone and stiffness) obtained from selected anatomical surface muscle groups
Electromyography (EMG)Diagnostic test
Also called surface EMG/nerve impulse rate [amplitude/frequency]
As a standard method, surface EMG collects data from nerve impulse-triggered active muscle contractions, pre/postflight only
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)Diagnostic test
Also called MRI, Magnetic Resonance Tomography
MRI is a clinically standard (non-radiation) imaging method to study structural changes of the human body (organs, muscle, bones, tendons) at the macroscopic level, pre/postflight only
DynamometryDiagnostic test
Also called muscle functional test
Dynamometry is a standard functional and diagnostic method to test muscle strength in sports and rehabilitation. pre/postflight only
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| EMS (electromyostimulation) participants | Experimental | Healthy Astronauts that perform EMS-assisted inflight exercise onboard the International Space Station Receives: Device: Electromyostimulation (EMS); Device: Myoton; Diagnostic Test: Electromyography (EMG); Diagnostic Test: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI); Diagnostic Test: Dynamometry |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Myoton Tone (baseline preflight)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations for Outcome Measures 1-37: Hertz, Hz; Newton/meter, N/m; before launch (preflight), L-; recovery (postflight), R+; inflight days, FD; not earlier than, NET; not later than, NLT; electro-myo-stimulation, EMS; versus/against, vs; surface electromyography, sEMG.
Measured: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Myoton Tone (recovery postflight)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations for Outcome Measures 1-37: Hertz, Hz; Newton/meter, N/m; before launch (preflight), L-; recovery (postflight), R+; inflight days, FD; not earlier than, NET; not later than, NLT; electromyostimulation, EMS; versus/against, vs; surface electromyography, sEMG.
Measured: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Myoton Tone (inflight, preEMS-1)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Measured: FD20-30 days (time window)
Myoton Tone (inflight, preEMS-2)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Measured: FD60-80 days (time window)
Myoton Tone (inflight, post EMS-1)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Measured: NET R-18 days (time window)
Myoton Tone (inflight, post EMS-2)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Measured: NLT R-12 days (time window)
Myoton stiffness (baseline, preflight).
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Myoton stiffness (recovery, postflight).
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Myoton stiffness (inflight, preEMS-1)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: FD20-30 days (time window)
Myoton stiffness (inflight, preEMS-2)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: FD60-80 days (time window)
Myoton stiffness (inflight, postEMS-1)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: NET R-18 days (time window)
Myoton stiffness (inflight, postEMS-2)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: NLT R-12 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS1)
1st out of a total of 12 (1/12) single EMS-assisted inflight exercise between NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS2)
2/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS3)
3/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise, NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days(time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS4)
4/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS5)
5/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS6)
6/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS7)
7/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise, NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS8)
8/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS9)
9/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS10)
10/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS11)
11/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS12)
Last out of a total of twelve (12/12) single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
Dynamometry (baseline, preflight/power).
Standard muscle isometric/isokinetic tests (power [Watt] on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Dynamometry (baseline, preflight/torque).
Standard muscle isometric/isokinetic tests ( torque [Nm]) on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
sEMG (baseline, preflight/amplitude).
Non-invasive sEMG by amplitude on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus) as part of dynamometry. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
sEMG (baseline, preflight/frequency).
Non-invasive sEMG by frequency (Hz) on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus) as part of dynamometry. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Dynamometry (recovery postflight/power).
Standard muscle isometric/isokinetic tests (power [Watt] on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Dynamometry (recovery postflight/torque).
Standard muscle isometric/isokinetic tests (torque [Nm] on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
sEMG (recovery postflight/amplitude).
Non-invasive surface EMG (amplitude) on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus) as part of dynamometry. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
sEMG (recovery postflight/frequency).
Non-invasive surface EMG (Hz) on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus) as part of dynamometry. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (baseline preflight).
Standard clinical structural analysis by optical sections of lower leg and lumbar back muscle profile/volume area (square/3-D, centimeters). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (recovery postflight).
Standard clinical structural analysis by optical sections of lower leg and lumbar back muscle profile/volume area (square/3-D, centimeters). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Measured: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
EMS protocol report (ms)
Multiple measurements (milliseconds=ms) will be aggregated for each of the 12 single inflight EMS session (see Outcome 13-24) to report on inflight EMS protocol and to collect technical data (of muscle stimulation) for whole body inflight EMS monitoring and assessment. see Outcome1
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS protocol report (minutes)
Multiple measurements (duration/min.) will be aggregated for each of the 12 single inflight EMS session (see Outcome 13-24) to report on inflight EMS protocol and to collect technical data (of muscle stimulation) for whole body inflight EMS monitoring and assessment. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
EMS protocol report (Hz)
Multiple measurements (frequency/Hz) will be aggregated for each of the 12 single inflight EMS session (see Outcome 13-24) to report on inflight EMS protocol and to collect technical data (of muscle stimulation) for whole body inflight EMS monitoring and assessment. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Measured: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted9 Jul 2024
- Study start15 Sep 2025
- Primary completion31 Jul 2029 (estimated)
- Study completion31 Dec 2029 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (3)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Muscle AtrophyStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Charite University, Berlin, GermanyThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Basic science
- Allocation
- Not applicable
- Intervention model
- Single group
- Model description
- In the second phase of their long-duration flight (\>130 days or more), each participant wears a personalized Easymotionskin body suit (muscle stimulation suit) controlled by Easymotion App software on crew iPad for only for about 15-20 minutes while performing routine inflight exercise using standard inflight countermeasure devices (treadmill=T2, Cycle Ergometer on ISS, CEVIS; advanced Resistive Exercise Device, ARED) available onboard the ISS. Total EMS exercise time and duration: 12 times EMS plus T2, CEVIS or ARED within 3 weeks on ISS.
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 12 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Charite University, Berlin, Germany
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- German Sport University, Cologne
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Dieter Blottner, Charite University, Berlin, Germany
- Investigators
- Dieter Blottner, PhD, Principal investigator, Charite-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06492057
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 50WB2329
- Acronym
- Easymotion-2
- Status last verified
- Mar 2026
- First submitted
- 23 May 2024
- Last updated
- 23 Mar 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No: Results will not be shared to other researchers due to privacy reasons of participating Astronauts related to their Space Agencies
Publications
Schoenrock B, Muckelt PE, Hastermann M, Albracht K, MacGregor R, Martin D, Gunga HC, Salanova M, Stokes MJ, Warner MB, Blottner D. Muscle stiffness indicating mission crew health in space. Sci Rep. 2024 Feb 20;14(1):4196. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-54759-6.
PubMed 38378866Muckelt PE, Warner MB, Cheliotis-James T, Muckelt R, Hastermann M, Schoenrock B, Martin D, MacGregor R, Blottner D, Stokes M. Protocol and reference values for minimal detectable change of MyotonPRO and ultrasound imaging measurements of muscle and subcutaneous tissue. Sci Rep. 2022 Aug 11;12(1):13654. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-17507-2.
PubMed 35953503Schoenrock B, Zander V, Dern S, Limper U, Mulder E, Veraksits A, Viir R, Kramer A, Stokes MJ, Salanova M, Peipsi A, Blottner D. Bed Rest, Exercise Countermeasure and Reconditioning Effects on the Human Resting Muscle Tone System. Front Physiol. 2018 Jul 3;9:810. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00810. eCollection 2018.
PubMed 30018567
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 23 Mar 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- ElectroMyoStimulation (EMS Body Suit) Protocol to Improve Exercise Outcome in Space Missions (EasyMotion-2)
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06492057
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- Easymotion-2 / 50WB2329
- Conditions
- Muscle Atrophy, Myotonia, Stiffness; Spine, Exercise Overtraining
- Keywords
- skeletal muscle, passive muscle stiffness, muscle health, electromyostimulation, space flight, countermeasure
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Enrolling by invitation
- Enrolment
- 12 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Charite University, Berlin, GermanyUniversity, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- German Sport University, Cologne
- Study start
- 15 Sep 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 31 Jul 2029 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 31 Dec 2029 (estimated)
- First posted
- 9 Jul 2024 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This is a prospective spaceflight study involving an investigational non-risk device called the EasyMotionSkin for whole body electric muscle (myo) stimulation (WB-EMS) onboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The purpose of this study is to show:
- optimized exercise outcome with EMS in human spaceflight
- demonstrate efficacy of EMS as alternative inflight exercise protocol
- provide a time-saving and reliable EMS-assisted exercise protocol compliant to astronauts for later use in planetary habitats and future deep space exploration
Eight (n=8) astronauts on long duration missions will take part in this study. This experiment uses the following hardware/software (HW \& SW): (A) EasymotionSkin suit (dry electrode muscle stimulation), B) non-invasive hand-held Myoton device (digitized passive muscle stiffness data collection). C) a customized Myoton body template suit (elastic yoga suit with customized anatomical reference labels to aid inflight Myoton data collection on dedicated perforated 2x2 cm small skin fields) at 5 different skin measurement points (MP), neck, back, shoulder, legs.
Before and after flight the following tests will be done once: Myoton data collection, dynamometry strength test, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for baseline comparison. Researchers will compare data from a non EMS control group (non EMS Astronauts, retrospective) to see if changes of passive muscle stiffness is seen in EMS Astronauts before, during and after spaceflight
Detailed description
In a previous space analog study (60 days reactive jumps on a sledge during bed rest immobilisation, Cologne, Germany, 2015) on n=24 voluntary participants followed by an experiment on the International Space Station, ISS (MYOTONES 2015-2023) the investigators used non-invasive Myoton technology (Myoton device) to detect digital biomarkers (passive muscle tone and stiffness) on twelve (n=12) study participants together with clinical imaging (MRI), muscle strength tests (dynamometry), and blood samples (biosamples) to study muscle properties and adaptation in microgravity following routine inflight exercise in ISS Astronauts. One of the MYOTONES ISS Astronaut already tested a space-qualified EasymotionSkin suit (Demo-Tech Experiment, German Aerospace Agency, Deutsches Zentrum fuer Luft- und Raumfahrt, DLR, 2022) that was used for about 20 minutes on top of the daily routine exercise protocol in order to optimize inflight training outcome by EMS technology in spaceflight. Preliminary results (n=1) showed feasibility of the novel EMS technology in spaceflight and suggested improved muscle health parameters (increased tone and stiffness) found in some muscle from torso (lower back) and limbs compared to a non-EMS mission crewmember. Easymotion-2 is designed to replicate similar changes in inflight passive muscle parameters (resembling muscle health) in eight (n=8) more ISS Astronauts for robust statistical analyses and interpretation. Pre and postflight baseline data collections with Myoton technology (passive tone [Hz] and stiffness [N/m]) serve as control for comparison. Protocol and recruitment of healthy study participants (male or female Astronauts) is under control by NASA via Informed Consent Briefing standardized procedures.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Basic science
- Allocation
- Not applicable
- Intervention model
- Single group
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 1
- Model description
- In the second phase of their long-duration flight (>130 days or more), each participant wears a personalized Easymotionskin body suit (muscle stimulation suit) controlled by Easymotion App software on crew iPad for only for about 15-20 minutes while performing routine inflight exercise using standard inflight countermeasure devices (treadmill=T2, Cycle Ergometer on ISS, CEVIS; advanced Resistive Exercise Device, ARED) available onboard the ISS. Total EMS exercise time and duration: 12 times EMS plus T2, CEVIS or ARED within 3 weeks on ISS.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| EMS (electromyostimulation) participants | Experimental | Device: Electromyostimulation (EMS), Device: Myoton, Diagnostic Test: Electromyography (EMG), Diagnostic Test: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Diagnostic Test: DynamometryHealthy Astronauts that perform EMS-assisted inflight exercise onboard the International Space Station |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 40 to 60 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (1 listed)
- Astronauts with active Flight Medical
Key exclusion criteria (9 listed)
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Diabetes
- Thrombosis
- Extreme blood pressure
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Electromyostimulation (EMS)Also: EMS body muscle stimulationEasymotionSkin body suit for digitally controlled electric impulses via Easymotion-2 software on crew iPad (frequency, impulse rate, duration) are transferred from integrated dry electrodes of the EMS- stimulation suit to activate surface muscle groups of the body (trunk), arms and legs | Device | EMS (electromyostimulation) participants |
| MyotonAlso: passive muscle propertiesThe non-invasive Myoton technology collects data from passive muscle properties (tone and stiffness) obtained from selected anatomical surface muscle groups | Device | EMS (electromyostimulation) participants |
| Electromyography (EMG)Also: surface EMG/nerve impulse rate [amplitude/frequency]As a standard method, surface EMG collects data from nerve impulse-triggered active muscle contractions, pre/postflight only | Diagnostic test | EMS (electromyostimulation) participants |
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)Also: MRI, Magnetic Resonance TomographyMRI is a clinically standard (non-radiation) imaging method to study structural changes of the human body (organs, muscle, bones, tendons) at the macroscopic level, pre/postflight only | Diagnostic test | EMS (electromyostimulation) participants |
| DynamometryAlso: muscle functional testDynamometry is a standard functional and diagnostic method to test muscle strength in sports and rehabilitation. pre/postflight only | Diagnostic test | EMS (electromyostimulation) participants |
Primary outcome
Myoton Tone (baseline preflight)
Time frame: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations for Outcome Measures 1-37: Hertz, Hz; Newton/meter, N/m; before launch (preflight), L-; recovery (postflight), R+; inflight days, FD; not earlier than, NET; not later than, NLT; electro-myo-stimulation, EMS; versus/against, vs; surface electromyography, sEMG.
Myoton Tone (recovery postflight)
Time frame: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations for Outcome Measures 1-37: Hertz, Hz; Newton/meter, N/m; before launch (preflight), L-; recovery (postflight), R+; inflight days, FD; not earlier than, NET; not later than, NLT; electromyostimulation, EMS; versus/against, vs; surface electromyography, sEMG.
Myoton Tone (inflight, preEMS-1)
Time frame: FD20-30 days (time window)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Myoton Tone (inflight, preEMS-2)
Time frame: FD60-80 days (time window)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Myoton Tone (inflight, post EMS-1)
Time frame: NET R-18 days (time window)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Myoton Tone (inflight, post EMS-2)
Time frame: NLT R-12 days (time window)
Passive muscle tone [Hz] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Myoton stiffness (baseline, preflight).
Time frame: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Myoton stiffness (recovery, postflight).
Time frame: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Myoton stiffness (inflight, preEMS-1)
Time frame: FD20-30 days (time window)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Myoton stiffness (inflight, preEMS-2)
Time frame: FD60-80 days (time window)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Myoton stiffness (inflight, postEMS-1)
Time frame: NET R-18 days (time window)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Myoton stiffness (inflight, postEMS-2)
Time frame: NLT R-12 days (time window)
Passive muscle stiffness [N/m] numerical indices. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS1)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
1st out of a total of 12 (1/12) single EMS-assisted inflight exercise between NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS2)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
2/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS3)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days(time window)
3/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise, NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS4)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
4/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS5)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
5/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS6)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
6/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS7)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
7/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise, NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out")at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS8)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
8/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS9)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
9/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS10)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
10/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS11)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
11/12 single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
EMS body stimulation (inflight EMS12)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
Last out of a total of twelve (12/12) single EMS-assisted inflight exercise NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window) with 1-4 days in between "wash-out") at tolerable stimulation merged to nominal daily inflight exercise countermeasure sessions at crew discretion. Applies to Outcome Measures 13-24: Abbreviations see Outcome 1.
Dynamometry (baseline, preflight/power).
Time frame: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Standard muscle isometric/isokinetic tests (power [Watt] on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Dynamometry (baseline, preflight/torque).
Time frame: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Standard muscle isometric/isokinetic tests ( torque [Nm]) on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
sEMG (baseline, preflight/amplitude).
Time frame: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Non-invasive sEMG by amplitude on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus) as part of dynamometry. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
sEMG (baseline, preflight/frequency).
Time frame: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Non-invasive sEMG by frequency (Hz) on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus) as part of dynamometry. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Dynamometry (recovery postflight/power).
Time frame: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Standard muscle isometric/isokinetic tests (power [Watt] on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Dynamometry (recovery postflight/torque).
Time frame: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Standard muscle isometric/isokinetic tests (torque [Nm] on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
sEMG (recovery postflight/amplitude).
Time frame: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Non-invasive surface EMG (amplitude) on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus) as part of dynamometry. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
sEMG (recovery postflight/frequency).
Time frame: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Non-invasive surface EMG (Hz) on calf muscle (gastrocnemius) and lower deep back muscle (erector spinae/multifidus) as part of dynamometry. Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (baseline preflight).
Time frame: L-105+/-30 days (time window)
Standard clinical structural analysis by optical sections of lower leg and lumbar back muscle profile/volume area (square/3-D, centimeters). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (recovery postflight).
Time frame: R+30+/-10 days (time window)
Standard clinical structural analysis by optical sections of lower leg and lumbar back muscle profile/volume area (square/3-D, centimeters). Abbreviations: see Outcome 1
EMS protocol report (ms)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
Multiple measurements (milliseconds=ms) will be aggregated for each of the 12 single inflight EMS session (see Outcome 13-24) to report on inflight EMS protocol and to collect technical data (of muscle stimulation) for whole body inflight EMS monitoring and assessment. see Outcome1
EMS protocol report (minutes)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
Multiple measurements (duration/min.) will be aggregated for each of the 12 single inflight EMS session (see Outcome 13-24) to report on inflight EMS protocol and to collect technical data (of muscle stimulation) for whole body inflight EMS monitoring and assessment. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
EMS protocol report (Hz)
Time frame: NET R-60 and NLT R-21 days (time window)
Multiple measurements (frequency/Hz) will be aggregated for each of the 12 single inflight EMS session (see Outcome 13-24) to report on inflight EMS protocol and to collect technical data (of muscle stimulation) for whole body inflight EMS monitoring and assessment. Abbreviations: see Outcome1
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 23 Mar 2026.
- Background: PubMed 38378866Schoenrock B, Muckelt PE, Hastermann M, Albracht K, MacGregor R, Martin D, Gunga HC, Salanova M, Stokes MJ, Warner MB, Blottner D. Muscle stiffness indicating mission crew health in space. Sci Rep. 2024 Feb 20;14(1):4196. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-54759-6.
- Background: PubMed 35953503Muckelt PE, Warner MB, Cheliotis-James T, Muckelt R, Hastermann M, Schoenrock B, Martin D, MacGregor R, Blottner D, Stokes M. Protocol and reference values for minimal detectable change of MyotonPRO and ultrasound imaging measurements of muscle and subcutaneous tissue. Sci Rep. 2022 Aug 11;12(1):13654. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-17507-2.
- Background: PubMed 30018567Schoenrock B, Zander V, Dern S, Limper U, Mulder E, Veraksits A, Viir R, Kramer A, Stokes MJ, Salanova M, Peipsi A, Blottner D. Bed Rest, Exercise Countermeasure and Reconditioning Effects on the Human Resting Muscle Tone System. Front Physiol. 2018 Jul 3;9:810. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00810. eCollection 2018.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No. Results will not be shared to other researchers due to privacy reasons of participating Astronauts related to their Space Agencies
Related trials for Muscle Atrophy
Enrolling by invitation
Online Exercise Program for Transplant Patients: A Pilot Study
Kidney Transplantation, Physical Function
Active, not recruitingPhase 4
A Study Evaluating the Effectiveness and Safety of Risdiplam Administered as an Early Intervention in Pediatric Participants With Spinal Muscular Atrophy After Gene Therapy
Muscular Atrophy, Spinal
Not yet recruitingPhase 2
A Study of Bimagrumab in Participants With HFpEF
Heart Failure, Diastolic, Diastolic Heart Failure
Not yet recruiting
The Aim of the Study is to Decipher the Alterations in Signalling Pathways of Skeletal Muscle Stem Cells (Satellite Cells (SCs)) in Individuals With COPD, as Well as to Examine the Effect of Exercise Training on SCs.
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), Sarcopenia in Elderly
Not yet recruitingPhase 2
MF-300 for Treatment of Age-Related Sarcopenia
Sarcopenia in Elderly
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Dieter Blottner, PhD principal investigator
Charite-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Electromyostimulation (EMS), Myoton and Electromyography (EMG) in people with Muscle Atrophy and Myotonia, run by Charite University, Berlin, Germany at 1 site in Germany.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 1 inclusion and 9 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: enrolling by invitation, as of the sponsor's last update on 23 Mar 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Germany. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Myoton Tone (baseline preflight) (time frame: L-105+/-30 days (time window)). The study lists 37 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06492057, which also lists 3 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 23 Mar 2026.