An increasingly more popular method of fitness training has been the use of whole body vibration exercise as a means to increase fitness levels, promote functional training and rehabilitation modalities. Vibration exercise is unique in that it causes your muscles to contract in ways that conventional exercise training cannot. besides gaining strength and flexibility, the results of vibration training also include therapeutic benefits, as well.
Because extended periods of time spent in space caused the Russian cosmonauts to lose bone density and muscle mass, Russian scientists and researchers lookd for ways to negate the detrimental effects of lack of gravity. Whole body vibration technology was developed which produced staggering results among the Russian cosmonauts. Not only did vibration exercise and therapy stop bone mineral loss and muscle atrophy, it actually increased bone density and helped to maintain and build muscle strength and mass. This tremendous breakthrough changed the Russian space program by giviing their cosmonauts the ability to stay in space for longer periods of time without suffering from lack of gravity.
Vibration exercise technology was eventually adapted by NASA and the American space program, with the same impressive results. This was spurred on by the success that the Russians found with their experiments with vibration exercise. Ultimately, fitness, wellness and healthy equipment manufacturers took this opportunity and developed ways to provide these same principles of vibration technology to the general public. Unfortunately, with more and more companies appearing on the marketplace selling WBV equipment, it has created a lot of confusion and misinformation, therefore making it tough for the general public and consumer to figure out who and what to believe concerning whole body vibration machines.
Whole body vibration machines move in different planes and depending upon which plane the vibration plate or platform (and user) moves in, will determine the type of effects on the body. Essentially, there are two general planes that whole body vibration machines move in. The first is strictly up and down (also called lineal or vertical movement) and the second is called pivotal (see-saw or teeter-totter). Some companies actually have a third way of movement which is called elliptical (more horizontal and less vertical motion).
The vibration platforms are scientifically calibrated to produce precise vibrations at a set amplitude (vertical displacement) and frequency (platform speed). When the user stands on the platform, the vibration energy is transferred to the entire body. These vibrations generate involuntary contractions in the muscle fibers several times per second. By adjusting either of the two variables (amplitude or frequency) you can affect the number of times per second your muscles contract, the amount of G force exerted on your body, the degree of difficulty for stabilization, the detoxification effect, etc. Different frequencies will have different effects on our bodies. Depending on what effects you are hoping to benefit from, will determine what frequency you should run or program your machine to.
As a result of the vibration exercise, our bodies will adapt to the different stimuli and respond with several healthful benefits. These include: Increased bone mineral density Increased overall strength Increased flexibility Increased core strength Improved blood and lymph drainage (detoxification effect) Improved balance, stability and coordination Burn fat-weight loss Muscle relaxation Rehabilitation of injuries Joint mobilization Scar tissue healing Hormonal changes Neurological stimulation Increased mobility Decreased lower back pain Improved muscle tone
Most whole body vibration exercise sessions are designed for use in short sets of 15-180 seconds therefore an entire workout can consist of only 12-15 minutes actually spent on the platform (beginner). Performing these exercises three to five training sessions per week will yield incredible health and fitness benefits for users of all age groups.
The medical community, to include chiropractors, osteopaths and physical therapists have acknowledged whole body vibration exercise as a safe therapeutic and rehabilitative modality. Professional athletes from all sports have added WBV exercises to their training regimens, while gyms, spas and wellness clinics and even assisted living facilities have incorporated WBV equipment into their programming and business models.
There are many companies selling whole body vibration products in the marketplace. Although most of the manufacturing is done overseas, there are several WBV companies that manufacture solely in the USA. WBV pricing ranges from $250-$15,000 depending upon the manufacturing standards and quality, features and the intended usage.
It’s this author’s opinion that the WBV’s under $1,000 are not really worth purchasing. Buy a home treadmill, instead! An entry level lineal WBV will cost just about $1,000. An entry level oscillating WBV will cost approximately $2,000. Most of the better home-light commercial WBV’s cost approximately $2,500-$3,000. Above $3,000, through $12,000, are light commercial to heavy duty commercial WBV units, usually intended for athletes, gyms, clinics or heavy traffic places that get frequent member or patient usage.
For more information concerning purchasing whole body vibration exercise equipment, please access: http://www.befullyfit.com/art-HyperVib.htm
Bruce Lipsky, MS has over 30 years of extensive experience in the corporate and commercial sectors of the fitness and health industry. Discover which WBV company Bruce recommends
