A wearable integrated textile EMG and muscle oximetry system for monitoring exercise-induced effects: a feasibility study

Exercise in microgravity is a necessary activity for astronauts to preserve skeletal muscles’ form and function. Due to the challenging work schedule on space flight as well as the environmental limitations, astronauts have limited time and limited equipment to perform specific physical activities able to stimulate the cardiovascular and neuromuscular systems. While studies have focused on the effects of spaceflight, little is known about the day to day changes in skeletal muscle form and function as well as the optimal ‘dose’ of exercise necessary to retain it. A wearable solution integrating electromyography (EMG) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was commissioned by the European Space Agency to be able to monitor the effects of dedicated exercise programs in-flight and be able to modify them according to individual astronauts’ needs and progressions. The aim of this study was to present the feasibility of a textile-wearable solution integrating EMG/NIRS and its applicability for assessing the effectiveness of the exercises typically performed by space crews. The results indicate that the proposed solution is feasible and it could be applied as a reliable tool on space flight for evaluating exercise-induced effects in skeletal muscles.