Vibration Training For Weight Loss

Many of us continue to be intrigued by promises of so called "easy weight loss," which are extended by the creators of a plethora of equipment, regimens, and procedures. Will we ever see the day that the old adage "no pain, no gain" is outdated? Some proponents of vibration training are indicating that we are now entering just such an era.

Description

Vibration training is accomplished by utilizing a specially designed platform which vibrates very quickly in different directions. Users can assume various positions on the platform such as standing, sitting, and even placing their hands on the platform to support their upper body weight. In addition to assuming a static position during vibration training, movements such as resistance exercises and stretches can be performed while working on a vibration machine.

Availability

When vibration platforms first made their appearance, they were primarily used in therapeutic settings and specialized athletic training facilities, due to excessive size and cost. However, as the cost and size of vibration equipment decreases, fitness facilities have made this an available option for their members. Entire "vibration studios" provide a fitness environment focused on the providing access to the technology. However, only recently has in-home use of vibration platforms been gaining popularity.

Vibration Training Theory

According to VibrationPlate.org.uk., a site designed for the sale of vibration training equipment, the benefits of vibration training are thought to be delivered at the muscular level. As the plate vibrates, your muscles move as well, reflexively lengthening and contracting. It is these minuscule muscular movements, when repeated thousands of times during the course of a vibration training session, that are thought to bring beneficial results.

Research Results

According to a twelve-week study conducted on lab rats at Oregon State University, Department of Nutrition and Exercise Sciences, thirty minutes on a vibration platform five days per week resulted in "significant body composition differences" between the whole body vibration group and the control group. The vibration therapy was credited with lowering total body weight, total body fat, and body fat percentage. Another study conducted in Belgium concluded that whole body vibration training aided in sustaining long-term weight loss.

Expert Insight

Edward R. Laskowski, M.D., a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist at Mayo Clinic, says, "whole body vibration isn't likely to result in measurable weight loss." And while vibration training may "help you burn a few extra calories... it isn't as effective as physical activity that you initiate and maintain yourself." Dr. Allie McAllister, an author for Creators.com, agrees that vibration training has been shown to bring "modest health benefits," however, there is "less evidence to suggest that it can promote weight loss or reduce body fat."