Vibration machines have emerged as one of the most popular and exciting fitness trends. The idea of losing weight and getting in shape without having to do much is obviously appealing. But just how do these machines work? And are they just for losing weight? This article will answer these questions and show you why a vibration machine may be just the thing for you.
What’s this vibration thing?
Whole-body vibration is a form of passive exercise which was originally used to train Russian cosmonauts before spreading further afield. Now anyone can seek out the best vibration machine and use it at home. You stand on the platform with your knees bent at an angle of about 30 degrees while the machine vibrates beneath you. This is said to trick the body into believe that its falling, thereby activating very rapid muscle contraction and relaxation.
How does it help?
Manufacturers and proponents say the machines have a long list of benefits including increased circulation, stronger muscles, an improved range of motion and more core stability. They also say the machines increase metabolism, bone density, growth hormones and lymphatic flow while decreasing stress hormone cortisol and cellulite. It is said that as little as 15 minutes of vibration a day, three times a week is enough to bring about these effects. However, there is not enough research to prove that whole-body vibration has the same benefits are other forms of exercise like cycling or swimming.
What do the experts say?
Research shows that vibration may help improve muscle strength and help with weight loss when you also cut back on calories. Chief science officer of the American Council on Exercise Cedric Bryant, PhD, told WebMD it could presumably improve muscle strength and stability and bring about an increase in bone density. Similarly, a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that elderly people who could not do traditional forms of exercise were able to strengthen their muscle and move faster after using one machines.
It has also been found that doing squats, crunches and push-ups while sitting or standing on a vibration machine can substantially increase the potential of weight loss. Another study, this one published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, reported that mice placed on vibrating platform for 15 minutes, five days as week, for 15 weeks ended up the research period with smaller torsos than those who were placed on a non-vibrating plate.
What’s the bottom line?
If you have lower back pain or some other physical ailments, whole-body vibration may not be for you. Otherwise, incorporating it into your fitness regime won’t hurt and it may even be fun. At the very least, it may help to lower your stress levels. However, there is still not enough research to prove that it can fully replace traditional forms of exercise. If you truly want to lose weight, use the vibrating plate but also add some aerobic activity and strength training. You must also ensure you have a healthy, balanced diet with the appropriate caloric intake if you truly want to see results.
