Claims that vibrating fitness machines provide fitness benefits from vibration alone make these products sound easy and appealing. Unfortunately, it is not a shortcut to fitness. These machines do provide benefits, but those able to engage in traditional exercise should do them for best results. Ace Get Fit recommends that whole-body vibrating fitness routines be used in addition to traditional exercise, not in place of it.
What is a Vibrating Fitness Machine?
According to Ace Get Fit, different manufacturers have different designs of vibrating fitness machines. Most consist of a vibrating platform on which the person can sit or stand. The variables are the number of vibrations per second and the depth of vibration. Claims have been made that the vibrations produced by these machines will cause the muscles to contract and exercise them.
Elderly Adults
MayoClinic.com notes that elderly patients can see improvement from vibration machines. Bone mineral density can increase in older women who use the machines. Elderly patients also can experience improved muscle strength and balance.
Weight Loss
Diabetes Forecast reports on a study done at Artesis University College and the University of Antwerp in Belgium which concluded that vibration training may have benefits for obese patients. In a study of 79 overweight adults, those who used vibration platforms to perform a variety of exercises lost 11 percent of their body weight. In a follow-up, they had maintained a 10.5-percent weight loss.
Considerations
Using the vibration platform properly is very important for good results. Just standing on the platform is not likely to provide much benefit. Exercises like push-ups and sit-ups need to be performed while on the platform for optimal benefits. It is helpful to have trained personnel instructing exercisers on good form.
Cost
According to Williams Healthcare Systems, the weight limit of a vibrating platform is between 1,200 and 1,500 lbs. Typically made of solid steel, the 24" by 24" size is recommended for home use, weighs 80 lbs. and, as of 2010, costs $1,995.00. The clinic or club unit is 24" by 40" and weighs 125 lbs. The 2010 price is $2,595.00. Considering the cost, it would be wise to try the platform at a club before purchasing one for home use.
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