Thanks to endorsements from celebrities like Madonna, power training vibration plate machines have become a fitness craze. However, mainstream science still questions the vibration plate's overall effectiveness as a weight-loss tool, creating doubt as to whether the machines are a truly revolutionary exercise device or merely the latest fad.
History
Russian scientist Vladimir Nazarov pioneered the idea of vibrational training, using it to strengthen Russian astronauts during space flights. Not long after, Russian ballet dancers used the same principles to help improve muscle strength and accelerate injury recovery. In 1999, Dutch Olympic trainer Guus van der Meer built on Russian research to develop a vibrating plate machine for the health and fitness world.
Identification
Resembling a tall floor scale, a vibration plate machine typically has a wide, flat base that vibrates and a vertical bar at the front with handles to provide stability. Users stand on the vibrating plate and hold the handlebars, remaining in place while the machine's base vibrates.
Function
Vibration plate machines vibrate anywhere between 30 and 90 times a second, forcing the user's body to adjust to the rapid movements. As a result, the user's muscles constantly fire to maintain balance and respond to the vibrations. In theory, this constant muscle flexing of up to 50 times a second tones the body, builds strength and burns fat.
Uses
Manufacturers of vibrating plate machines often recommend using the machines for 15 minutes, three times a week. Since the machines require no heavy weights or strenuous activity, users of all ages and fitness levels can partake in vibrational workouts. For optimum benefit, users also can perform squats, stretches and other exercises while standing on the vibrating plate, taxing muscles further.
Expert Insight
While many users, including celebrities, might swear to their effectiveness, vibration plate machines still lack legitimate scientific evidence supporting their abilities to shed pounds and improve strength. According to Andree Dean, the chief executive of the Fitness Industry Association, vibration plate machines should be used only as part of a complete exercise program. Dean warns that vibrating plate machines provide no cardiovascular exercise, which is important to maintaining a healthy heart and circulatory system. Cedric Bryant, chief exercise physiologist for the American Council on Exercise, also recommends using vibration plate training only to supplement a sensible diet and exercise program.
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