Whole Body Vibration & Weight Loss

Whole body vibration is the application of acceleration to increase gravitational force on the human body, resulting in a training effect. While research dating back to 1958 has confirmed the efficacy of WBV as a method of improving strength, stability and power production, it might not directly reduce body weight or percentage of body fat. Always consult your doctor before beginning any exercise regimen.

What is WBV?

Traditional dumbbell- and barbell-type resistance training relies on mass to activate muscles. As the weight being used gets heavier, the force being applied against gravity increases. This is why you need to use heavier weights at the gym as your strength increases. Vibration training does not increase mass, but relies instead on Newton's second law of motion: As the acceleration on an object increases, the force being applied to that object also increases. This force creates a tremendous training effect without adding external load.

How is WBV Used?

Vibration training is used primarily as part of the warm-up, stability, strength, power and recovery phases of a workout. Movements are progressed from the lowest frequency/amplitude, most stable position, to the highest frequency/amplitude, most dynamic position. Time under tension is generally 30 to 60 seconds at 30 to 40 Hz for one to two sets. Vibration training can be used in conjunction with other, traditional modalities or as a stand-alone program.

Is WBV Effective?

Independent research studies dating back to 1958 have shown vibration training to be an effective method of improving strength, power, stability, mobility, bone density, hormone levels and nervous system activation. Vibration training is ideal for clients with chronic and acute limitations to traditional exercise because no external weights are needed, and movement in the affected area can be minimized without a reduction in muscle and nervous system activation.

Significance

Documentation published by Power Plate International, makers of the Power Plate vibration training platform, do not have specific protocols for weight loss. However, research conducted at the Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, and at the Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics Laboratory at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Leuven, Belgium, have shown WBV to be effective at increasing lean body mass, which improves resting metabolic rate and increases caloric expenditure, resulting in lower levels of body fat when combined with a reduced-calorie diet.

Is WBV safe?

Vibration training is indicated for individuals with medical clearance for cardiovascular and resistance training exercise, and must be performed under the supervision of a fitness professional. Stay well-hydrated while using a vibration training platform, and never place your head or spine directly on the machine. Consult your doctor before beginning any vibration training program, especially if you are pregnant or use a pacemaker.