RT Journal Article T1 Surface electromyography during physical exercise in water: a systematic review A1 Cuesta-Vargas, Antonio A1 Cano Herrera, Carlos Leonardo K1 Ejercicio físico - Medición AB Background: Aquatic exercise has been widely used for rehabilitation and functional recovery due to its physical and physiological benefits. However, there is a high variability in reporting on the muscle activity from surface electromyographic (sEMG) signals. The aim of this study is to present an updated review of the literature on the state of the art of muscle activity recorded using sEMG during activities and exercise performed by humans in water.Methods: A literature search was performed to identify studies of aquatic exercise movement.Results: Twenty-one studies were selected for critical appraisal. Sample size, functional tasks analyzed, and muscles recorded were studied for each paper. The clinical contribution of the paper was evaluated.Conclusions: Muscle activity tends to be lower in water-based compared to land-based activity; however more research is needed to understand why. Approaches from basic and applied sciences could support the understanding of relevant aspects for clinical practice. PB BMC Springer Nature YR 2014 FD 2014-04-15 LK https://hdl.handle.net/10630/37878 UL https://hdl.handle.net/10630/37878 LA eng NO Cuesta-Vargas AI, Cano-Herrera CL. Surface electromyography during physical exercise in water: a systematic review. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2014 Apr 15;6(1):15. doi: 10.1186/2052-1847-6-15. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 24731774; PMCID: PMC4129181. DS RIUMA. Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Málaga RD 19 ene 2026