Weight Bearing Vibration Technology
posted on November 8th, 2007 in Benefits
Whole body vibration is not a new concept; exercise scientists have been studying the effects of intense vibrations for four decades. The technology is based on Rhythmic Neuromuscular Stimulation which is described as ‘cyclical vibrations capable of improving the condition of the joints relatively quickly’.
Originally developed by Russian scientist Vladimir Nazarov, whole vibration training was used to prevent astronauts’ muscles and bones decreasing in density when they were in space; the weightless atmosphere had predisposed astronauts to osteoporosis, but scientists found that standing on a vibrating platform stimulated muscle and bone development.
Commercial and home use
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Dutch Olympic trainer Guus van der Meer used this research in 1999 to develop a commercial grade vibration platform for the health and fitness sector. This new form of exercise has since become the workout choice for A-List celebrities. Kylie Minogue, Elle MacPherson and Claudia Schiffer are all advocates, as is the Manchester United Soccer team and the German National Football team. The latest development is that vibration platforms are now available that are suitable for the home user. From professional athletes looking for the extra edge, to senior citizens seeking a better quality of life, the vibration platform is a revolutionary machine designed for anyone to use, seemingly regardless of physical or neurological condition. Vibration machines may benefit a wide range of people are used today for
Most people using the platform are expecting a toned body, increased muscle strength, flexibility, stamina, fitness and wellbeing. However, there are a growing number of people using the vibration platforms for different purposes. |
How does it work?
A vibration platform is a resistance machine providing an outcome similar to ‘working out’ with free weights or weight-bearing equipment. In traditional strength and power training, the load on the muscles is determined by the weight lifted. When using the Vibration Platform, a specific frequency and amplitude of vibration is chosen and the movement of the plate loads the limbs.
Rigidity of the muscle is induced through the rapid contraction and vibration process in a short span of time. In other words, it is creating an excessive gravitational state by giving a vibrating motion to the muscle at the same time as you are giving a creating tension to the muscle in various positions.
The vibrations stimulate a reflex contraction within the muscle which leads to a high level of muscle activation and exertion.
Traditional resistance training and vibration technology
Traditional resistance training methods provide resistance on a single linear axis whereas the vibration platform’s resistance effects occur on multiple axes stimulating the entire body of fibres within a given muscle group. This means people may be able to achieve a better physical well being, which may improve their athletic capabilities and may rehabilitate injuries more quickly, regardless of medical, neurological or physical condition.
The vibration platform is said to stimulate superior muscle-activation compared to conventional training, therefore less time may be required to work muscle groups completely. The benefits therefore, may be further reaching than those achieved by ordinary exercise due to the deeper stimulation of the muscle group including nerves, bones, blood, ligaments & cartilage.
In summary, weight bearing vibration technology training may require only 1/3 the amount of time required for conventional training. This would be achieved through super compensation of the muscular system. When operating at high amplitude, the muscles are said to be contracting and releasing 35 times per second, while sustaining the resistance equal to over 3.9 times the user’s body weight. The body positioning plate houses a driving mechanism that evenly distributes vibrations throughout the body for the purpose of accelerating and magnifying a reflexive involuntary contraction.
Basically, a vibration platform is designed to do most of the work for you; contracting your muscles in the same way that you may do yourself if you were performing exercises without the aid of vibration. Manufacturers claim that WBV has the ability to stimulate 95 – 100% of your muscle fibres whereas in conventional training you only use around 30 – 40% of them, making each muscle contraction more significant which may produce faster and more effective results. Click here to view testimonials
