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Lietimevibe Frequently Asked Questions

ARE ALL VIBRATION PLATES THE SAME?

1. No. Just like cars or any product, you’ll find a wide variety of types and quality. Lifetimevibe is a top quality machine hand-built in the USA. Almost all other machiness, even some that are more expensive, are mass-produced in China in the same handful of factories.

Also, there are different types of vibration, different speeds, (hertz) and elevation heights. Lifetimevibe moves like a see-saw, up to 10 mm up and down. This motion is designed to simulate the natural action of walking, i.e. one hip is up while the other is down. This action is functional to the human body and very therapeutic.

Some other platforms move straight up and down at extreme high frequencies and can be jaring to the neck and skull. See our Product Comparison Page for More.

HOW IS LIFETIMEVIBE DIFFERENT?

 

See our Product Comparison Page.

Quality: Lifetimevibe is made in the USA out of top quality steel and wood. It is designed to last a lifetime and can be serviced if anything goes wrong. We offer a 3-year warranty, and the first group of machines manufactured 7 years ago are still in service–some used all day in busy Chiropractic offices.

Quiet: Lifetimevibe is whisper-quiet. Literally. We actually measured the sound at 42 decibels, which is about as quiet as a human whisper. Other machines are much louder and quite violent.

Beautiful: It looks great in the most elegant rooms of your home.

Simple: The controls are easy to understand, require no programming, and are simple to use.

Non-violent: A patented design isolates the handles and column from the vibration of the base. This also prevents the machine from wandering around your floor while in use.

Easily movable: Large wheels on the base make the Lifetimevibe easy to move when you want it to.

What are the benefits of a foot vibration machine?

Oscillating Vibration Technology provides you with full body stimulation as you stand on the vibration plate. The benefits for the body include improved lymphatic drainage, mobility, strength, stress management, digestion, neuropathy and many more. 

Regarding foot pain, LifetimeVibe improves blood circulation and oxygen enhancement to encourage nerves and the nervous system to function at a more efficient level helping to improve pain in the feet, legs, arms, etc. Whole body vibration provides a rapid foot massage and increased circulation to accelerate healing of even plantar fasciitis.

Learn more about how LifetimeVibe heals plantar fasciitis.

What is the best vibration plate brand for my body?

We often are asked why choose LifetimeVibe? What is the difference? Why is it better for my health? These are fair questions, so we have pulled together the research and compared LifetimeVibe to its competitors of which you can read here. That being said, here is why our customers love LifetimeVibe:

1) It feels good–It relieves pain, flushes toxins out, and improves fitness. Unlike others, it accelerates gradually and smoothly for a comfortable start, with 80 different speeds. Others start with a sudden shock acceleration that can be jolting and painful.

2) It gets used–It looks good in their living or family room, so they walk by it every day and use it every day.

3) The simple controls are intuitive–Unlike complicated touch screens with lots of programs to figure out, Lifetimevibe has solid aluminum controls that are obvious without any complicated instructions.

4) The quality is obvious–Unlike others made in China, the Lifetimevibe is hand made in the USA. Because of this quality craftsmanship, it includes a lifetime warranty on frame and motor, and with easily replaceable parts, it can easily be fixed if needed.

Learn more about why to choose LifetimeVibe.

Do vibration machines help leg circulation?

LifetimeVibe whole body vibration machines use a vibrating mechanism to stimulate the blood flow in your legs and feet. Vibration causes the tiny muscles in your tissues called capillaries to contract and expand, which helps increase blood flow through them. The increase of blood flow will also help improve oxygenation to the area. This can be very helpful for people who have poor circulation, especially those with diabetes or who are struggling with obesity. 

Learn more about how LifetimeVibe helps leg circulation.

What exercises can I do on a vibration plate?

LifetimeVibe offers a series of exercises designed for a vibration plate full body workout, many of which are available for free here on our website. The LifetimeVibe full body vibration machine is designed and equipped for a variety of exercises across the spectrum of desired workout difficulty from therapy to hit workouts.

Lifetimevibe is the best vibration plate for vibration therapy exercises because it allows a simple, easy adjustment or 12 pre-set programs. Let the vibration plate do the work to accelerate strength and flexibility gains as you exercise slowly.

How to decide: Confidence Fitness, Vibeplate, Vibra Plate vs LifetimeVibe?

We often are asked why choose LifetimeVibe? What is the difference? Why is it better for my health? These are fair questions, so we have pulled together the research and compared LifetimeVibe to its competitors of which you can read here. That being said, here is why our customers love LifetimeVibe:

1) It feels good–It relieves pain, flushes toxins out, and improves fitness. Unlike others, it accelerates gradually and smoothly for a comfortable start, with 80 different speeds. Others start with a sudden shock acceleration that can be jolting and painful.

2) It gets used–It looks good in their living or family room, so they walk by it every day and use it every day.

3) The simple controls are intuitive–Unlike complicated touch screens with lots of programs to figure out, Lifetimevibe has solid aluminum controls that are obvious without any complicated instructions.

4) The quality is obvious–Unlike others made in China, the Lifetimevibe is hand made in the USA. Because of this quality craftsmanship, it includes a lifetime warranty on frame and motor, and with easily replaceable parts, it can easily be fixed if needed.

Learn more about why to choose LifetimeVibe.

How can LifetimeVibe help swollen lymph nodes and other lymphatic issues?

The lymphatic system is responsible for many fascists of the body’s circulation and overall health. It carries away excess fluids in the body, it carries away fat and fatty acids to the circulatory system for removal, and it is the central part of what most people call “the immune system.” The lymphatic system’s health is vitally important to your health and how you feel daily. 

Whole body vibration experienced while using a LifetimeVibe machine, stimulates the lymphatic system. Specifically, it causes immune response in the lymph nodes, giving the body better defenses against illnesses.

Learn more about how LifetimeVibe improves lymphatic circulation and health.

How often should I use a vibration plate?

It’s always wise to start slow with any kind of new exercise. When using a LifetimeVibe machine, first try 10 minutes each day and see how you feel the next day. Then, you can increase to twice a day and eventually build up to several sessions if you wish.

On the other hand, some people with severe joint pain or other pre-existing conditions will benefit from using the more gentle Lifetimevibe vibration settings multiple times a day for just 1 or 2 minutes at a time.

Learn more about how often to use a LifetimeVibe.

Benefits of a vibration plate?

Whole body vibration machines stimulate movement throughout the body by allowing the muscles and joints to respond naturally to the vibrating plate’s movement. The vibration plate essentially mimics the body’s response to walking, running, or jumping, but at a much faster pace and lower intensity. That allows much more exercise and movement to be accomplished in a short amount of time. 

Learn more about how vibration plates work.

Why only 15 hertz?

LifetimeVibe only reaches a frequency of 15 hertz because users don’t really like to experience faster than that. Most users prefer between 4-10hz, when they have an easy to use and infinitely adjustable knob to change speed to wherever they like. 

LifetimeVibe also has a much higher amplitude than competitors, at 10mm (distance up and down) than competitors with faster hertz at about 1-2mm—but competitors often don’t publish their amplitude. When you have more amplitude, users don’t need or want a faster speed.

The big advantage of lifetimevibe is the ability to easily slow down to as little as 1-2hz, which is especially helpful for people with joint pain. Competitors generally cannot do that.

Learn more about the differences in brands or read, “Frequency vs. Amplitude: LifetimeVibe 15.5 hertz Explanation

Are there anabolic and catabolic benefits of using LifetimeVibe?

Whole body vibration machines stimulate movement throughout the body by allowing the muscles and joints to respond naturally to the vibrating plate’s movement. The vibration plate essentially mimics the body’s response to walking, running, or jumping, but at a much faster pace and lower intensity. That allows much more exercise and movement to be accomplished in a short amount of time. 

Therefore, full body vibration enhances the anabolic and catabolic benefits of exercising. Allowing you to gain muscle or burn fat depending on the exercises you choose to engage in while utilizing your LifetimeVibe machine.

Learn more about anabolic vs catabolic processes and vibration plates here

ARE THERE SPECIFIC TRAINING EXERCISES?

Yes, LifetimeVibe is the only machine that comes with a 165 page full exercise instruction book. This includes specific instructions for a wide variety of health conditions, as well as exercises for targeted parts of the body. Using this book, you will benefit from three professionally designed vibration programs for beginners, intermediate and advanced users. Also, strength exercises and flexibility exercises are available.

CAN WHOLE BODY VIBRATION Build Muscle?

Yes, Lifetimevibe exercises more than 95% of the muscles and joints at once. The muscles work together as you exercise, and some exercises can target specific muscle groups more than others. The vibration is highest in the body parts that are closest to the platform. The vibration dampens as it travels up the body.

CAN I LOSE WEIGHT?

Yes, you may lose weight! Most importantly, the vibration plate can relieve joint pain so that you are more active the rest of the day. This way, LifetimeVibe helps you burn more calories all day long.

In addition, using whole body vibration has been shown to increase lean muscle mass, therefore increase your metabolism and burn more calories. Dr James Levine, of the Mayo clinic has worked to develop the concept of “NEAT” non-exercise activity thermogenesis.  The body does not care whether you are sweating in a gym or scrubbing the kitchen floor on your hands and knees. Both activities are burning calories. His clinical research is redefining the concept of what constitutes “healthy activity”. “NEAT” shows us that all the body requires is muscle contraction, to burn calories, and promote better health, weight loss and an improved metabolic rate.

Ritzmann, Apr 2010 confirmed in the European Journal of Applied Physiology that movement on a whole body vibration platform can effectively create involuntary muscle contractions. Your body is actually working ON IT”S OWN to burn calories while vibrating on the platform. Thousands and thousands of muscle contractions are occurring in just a 10 minute time frame. While of the platform, 90% of the muscles work rapidly to use stored energy from fat cells, and assist the body in adjusting its metabolic rate to burn calories faster. Proper nutrition combined with whole body vibration assists in rapid and pain less weight loss in just 10 minutes a day.

For a more rapid weight loss add a cardio workout. Learn more on our weight loss research page.

CAN I REDUCE CELLULITE?

Yes, Studies have shown that cellulite can be significantly reduced through whole body vibration. One study found cellulite reduced 25% with just 3 sessions a week over 24 weeks. Combined with cardio, that reduction is boosted to 32%.

This is achieved through improving the body’s ability to drain toxins and lymphatic waste by promoting better circulation. This in turn reduces undesirable swelling in those areas of the body affected by cellulite. Being properly hydrated will also help the process so drink plenty of water. Learn more here.

CAN I USE IT EVERY DAY?

It is advisable to take at least a day or two off per week to let your muscles recover from the workouts. This would depend on the intensity and duration of your workouts, and on your individual health. 10 minutes 3x a week produces measurable results. Several times a day for fewer minutes is also beneficial.

What IF I’VE RECENTLY HAD SURGERY?

Please consult your doctor first. This of course depends on the severity of the surgery. Vibration has been used successfully for many rehab patients with supervision from a health care professional. The machine produces only movement, similar to walking. There are no extra magnetic waves produced that would interfere with metal or electronics in the body.

CAN I USE THE MACHINE WHILE PREGNANT?

Probably, unless you’ve been told to avoid walking or jogging. Consult your doctor, and make sure he is familiar with Lifetimevibe, not just other vibration plates, such as PowerPlate. LifetimeVibe is likely to be much safer than other vibration machines because it can be easily adjusted down to very slow frequencies.

The vibration machine produces movements very similar to walking–there are no powerful magnetic waves or electronic signals other than the movement. However, since a study could risk the health of the fetus, researchers will not undertake any studies using pregnant women. As such, there is currently no research available with whole body vibration and pregnancy.

CAN LIFETIMEVIBE STOP THE AGING PROCESS?

There are many factors that accelerate aging. Inactivity and stress are two. Vibration exercise has been shown to decrease the stress hormone cortisol and increase serotonin (a well-known contributor to feelings of well-being), and it has been decreases pain in joints and general stiffness, promoting movement and activity.

Does Lifetimevibe SPEED RECOVERY AND HEALING?

Whole body vibration improves recovery time and healing by increasing the blood flow during its usage. As hundreds of cycles of contraction and relaxation are experienced by the muscle you have a squeezing and relaxation of the blood vessels. This milking effect increases the blood flow to the injured area and carries valuable nutrition to improve the remodeling of an injury as well as fuel muscle cell metabolism. It is suspected to be in the same class as High-energy ultrasound and cold laser therapy but there is no research to support this yet.

DOES IT REPLACE ALL EXERCISE?

No. But a lot depends on what exercise you are currently getting. Whole body vibration on its own is not a cardio workout. You are encouraged to supplement your vibration workout with a cardio workout when possible. However, for athletes and frequent exercisers, the vibration machine can accelerate recovery, improve flexibility, and strengthen muscles.

HOW DOES WHOLE BODY VIBRATION AFFECT MY JOINTS?

One of the greatest features of whole body vibration is that it is low impact – meaning it is easy on your joints. So whether you already have some joint issues or are just trying to avoid future problems, whole body vibration is a great choice.

HOW Does Whole Body Vibration Work?

The LifetimeVibe vibration platform produces oscillating vibrations from a side-alternating rocking movement which simulates walking. When the left side goes up, the right side goes down. Some other popular machines, by contrast, vibrate the entire platform directly up and down, like jumping. When these vibrations of other machines are extremely fast and vertical, they can create harsh, jarring sensations in the neck and head.

 

With LifetimeVibe, the body reacts to this natural stimulus with an involuntary “stretch reflex” body reaction. This is the reflex that occurs when the doctor hits your knee or elbow with a reflex hammer. As a result of the rapid stretch to the muscle tendon caused by the tap of the hammer (the oscillating platform), the muscle contracts to oppose the stretch.

The vibration, frequency, amplitude, and resulting acceleration create thousands of these muscle contractions in a matter of just minutes. Without being aware of it, when we are in motion our muscles are always reacting to keep us upright and balanced. This natural reaction is what’s being employed with whole body vibration. By keeping the body constantly a little out of balance, these muscles have to keep working. Every time the plate moves, your body has no choice but to respond; rebalancing you by engaging and disengaging your muscles numerous times per second. The best part is, because the reactions are so quick and involuntary, it actually feels good! The sensation is more like a massage or gentle stretching- nothing like pounding through several sets at a gym. Depending on the speed, your muscles will contract up to 30 or more times per second. Energy is safely and effectively transferred to your body, stimulating every cell, your muscles, your bones and your soft tissue. Contractions occur in nearly 100% of the muscles, in comparison to 40-50 % involvement in traditional exercise. As a result of this exceptional high number of contractions a wide array of benefits are experienced.

HOW IS CIRCULATION AFFECTED?

While performing exercises your muscles are contracting- this would usually decrease your circulation but with whole body vibration, circulation in both the muscles and skin tissue may be increased significantly especially while enjoying the massage positions. Learn more about circulation here.

HOW DOES GRAVITY AFFECT WHOLE BODY VIBRATION?

Whole Body Vibration uses the power of gravity (the pull that is exerted by the earth). As the machine accelerates, it pushes up against your body and creates an extra force-known as a g-force. Imagine you were to hold a 12-pound weight in your hand. No problem right? Now imagine someone were to drop that weight, just by an inch or two, into your hand. You would have to use a little more strength to keep that weight from falling. The weight hasn’t changed, but it feels heavier. Now, imagine someone were to drop that weight into your hand 30 times a second! Your muscles would be working much harder that if they were just holding the weight. So while your muscles are working to keep you balanced, they actually have to stabilize a heavier load than they would if you were standing on the ground. Your body literally feels as though it weighs more, meaning you have to work against an increased weight or “load” than your muscles are used to. Thus you are using the “POWER OF GRAVITY” to enhance your workout.

HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED TO USE IT TO SEE RESULTS?

Use of Whole Body Vibration is similar to regular training in some aspects. How often you use it will depend on what you are hoping to accomplish. For those looking for strength gains, we recommend approximately 5 times per week. Others may use it every day for recovery and warming up and cooling down. Due to its ability to increase circulation, lactic acid is quickly cleared, leading to faster recovery and ability to use it again. In many aspects, whole body vibration exercise is more efficient than conventional training. With regular weight training, muscles undergo some micro tears through the stresses placed on it. This leads to a recovery time of 48 hours before engaging in that activity again. Vibration training minimizes these micro tears. Combine this with the increased circulation; there is less than a 24-hour recovery period, depending on the time, speed and amplitude of the exercise.

HOW LONG OF A SESSION IS NEEDED TO RECEIVE BENEFIT FROM WHOLE BODY VIBRATION?

You will probably notice some benefit almost immediately – often after 1 minute, you may feel changes. A full session should take approximately 10 minutes. This workout can be used as a stand-alone program or in conjunction with other strength or cardio training.

HOW SHOULD I STAND?

Stand tall, tummy tight, buttock tucked, legs straight, head up. Try then bending at the knee. Notice the difference.

HOW MANY CALORIES ARE USED WITH WHOLE BODY VIBRATION?

Let’s look at it another way. Our metabolism is unique to us. Metabolism is our body’s ability to burn a certain number of calories a day. The higher our metabolism, the more calories a day we can burn every day. Whole Body Vibration exercise has been shown to increase our resting metabolism. To answer the question, vibration exercise will allow you, over time, to burn more calories per day than you did before starting vibration training. This will help in preventing a drop in metabolism if you wanted to lose weight, or allow you to be able to eat healthy and maintain your weight over time.

I HAVE ARTHRITIS. WILL WHOLE BODY VIBRATION BE HELPFUL?

Exercise has shown to be beneficial for those with arthritis. WBV strengthens the muscles around the joints and will help keep the area stabilized. Vibration exercise minimizes stress on the joints, making it an ideal exercise solution. Various health professionals have incorporated vibration training into their treatment plans. Once you are screened by your health professional, they will be able to recommend the appropriate vibration treatment regimen for your particular condition. Click here to read more about whole body vibration and arthritis. Learn more at our arthritis research page.

I HAVE FIBROMYALGIA. Can LifetimeVibe help?

An effective program for those with fibromyalgia will involve exercises that promote strength, flexibility and endurance. Vibration exercise has been shown to produce greater increases in flexibility over conventional training, with less stress on the joints. In addition, strength gains with vibration training are comparable to regular exercise, except the time to complete exercises is shorter. More importantly, vibration exercise has been shown to be gentle and safe, without putting undue stress on your joints. Consult your physician prior to starting any exercise program. Click here to read more about whole body vibration and fibromyalgia.

Waht is HZ or Hertz?

Hertz is a unit of frequency, the same as the number of cycles per second. When the platform is set at  16 HZ (80 on the Lifetimevibe rotary dial) the targeted muscles are given 16 pulses per second, causing the muscles to contract and relax by natural reflex, 16 times per second.

Some machines only operate at extreme high frequencies and dont alow much variability. Others only have set programs. Lifetimevibe allows for the maximum amount of variation in frequency, which research has shown is important. Only Lifetimevibe allows you to easily slow down the vibration to as little as 2 cycles per second.

I HAVE OSTEOPOROSIS. HOW CAN WHOLE BODY VIBRATION HELP ME?

Vibration training helps by increasing the strength of your muscles. It is well known that the strength of the bones is influenced by the strength of your muscles. Vibration training is a safe and gentle way to achieve these strength gains. Click Here to read more about Whole body vibration and Osteoporosis.

IS THERE A TRAINING SCHEDULE?

Three to 10 minute sessions are a good way to begin. The initial training phase occurs on a neurological level, it is necessary to become accustomed to this new form of exercise to receive its full effect.Your present physical condition will determine when you begin to really experience results. It is normally between 2 to 6 weeks. However, many times results are noticed in days rather than weeks.

IS THERE BENEFIT FROM MOVING SIDE TO SIDE?

Yes, try moving side to side in a pivotal action. The following are the advantages and benefits from this movement. – Provides larger amplitude resulting in greater work done, per unit of time – “Rewires” the neurological pathways – Provides better stabilization of the head and spine – Provides increased use of postural muscles – Improves flexibility – Simulates the natural locomotor, crossover pattern – Improves neuromuscular communication

IS WHOLE BODY VIBRATION LIKE A TREADMILL?

No. Oscillating Vibration is a gentle workout that is not hard on your joints. Instead of walking, you simply stand or perform simple exercises on a moveable vibrating plate that encourages muscle contractions using your body’s own weight.

IS WHOLE BODY VIBRATION SAFE?

Yes. Oscillating Vibration Technology is considered the safest form of vibration. However, like all new exercise programs, it’s important to consult your health care professional first. Countless hours of exercise have been preformed using whole body vibration with no averse effects. Whole Body Vibration is very safe but may not be suitable for some people. Please be sure to seek medical advice before using whole body vibration. In particular, if you are pregnant, have a pacemaker or other implant, please do not undertake Whole Body Vibration without the approval of your medical practitioner.

IS WHOLE BODY VIBRATION TRAINING CREDIBLE?

Absolutely! Its usage for physical fitness purposes has been supported internationally by NASA, professional athletes, celebrities, physiotherapists, medical and chiropractic professionals. We have provided examples of medical journals detailing the benefits of Whole Body Vibration as related to each malady that this can help treat. With its wide potential application, new research is constantly being initiated across numerous North American and European Universities. Since most Whole Body Vibration systems were developed in Europe, most of the peer-reviewed publications have come from there. At present there are nearly 100 articles dealing with the effects of and related benefits of WBV. Articles in Spine, Journal of Bone and Mineral Density, and Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise are but a few of the periodicals that have addressed WBV. The Library of Medicine has 978 papers addressing whole body vibration.

MY DOCTOR/SPECIALIST DOESN’T KNOW ABOUT WHOLE BODY VIBRATION. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

 Our health research page is a good start. You could share and discuss with your doctor. Both nationally and internationally Vibration Training is becoming more widely known. The knowledge and know-how on the many applications of Vibration Training is growing rapidly – not only in the world of health and fitness clubs, but also in the area of medical and rehabilitative care. If your doctor, specialist, or physiotherapist would like to know more about whole body vibration have them do a bit of research for themselves. 

SHOULD I USE WHOLE BODY VIBRATION BEFORE OR AFTER PARTICIPATING IN SPORTS ACTIVITIES?

Both, normally it takes about 30 minutes of stretching to get your muscles and joints limber. As little as 5 minutes of vibration may give similar results. Using vibration after sporting activities washes the muscles of lactic acid thus less stiffness.

WHAT ARE MASSAGE SPEEDS USED FOR?

Massage enhances circulation considerably. You may experience a slight redness on the skin and feel an itchy tingly, warm sensation. Whole body vibration increases lymphatic drainage, flushing of toxins from your body, increases production of Human Growth Hormone and reinforces the production of collagen to improve the suppleness of your skin.

WHAT BENEFITS WILL I EXPERIENCE USING WHOLE BODY VIBRATION?

 

Our health benefits research page explains this in detail.

There are many and they are amazing. Here’s a start:

  • Only a ten minute time commitment per session.
  • Increases oxygenation in the blood due to the aggressive pumping of the muscle.
  • Increases blood flow
  • Raises testosterone levels 7% and growth hormone levels, 361%
  • Enhanced endorphin release generating that feel good sensation which follows a traditional workout ( Runners high)
  • Decreased production of Serum Cortisol, the stress hormone, 32%
  • Increased production of HGH, the growth hormone and all of its anti=aging benefits.
  • Lactic acid and amino acids are washed from the body due to the aggressive pumping action of the muscle. Result less stiffness.
  • Eliminates the effects of stress on the joints, ligaments and tendons as compared to traditional exercise.
  • Lymphatic drainage and microcirculation, which detoxifies and reduces congestion in your fat and cellulite, resulting in inches lost.
  • Improved digestion.
  • Reduces pain and disability associated with osteoarthritis.
  • Redevelops and exercises the muscles, joints and reflexes after injury.
  • Muscle toning in legs, arms and abdomen.
  • Core muscle conditioning and strengthening.
  • Helps combat Seasonal Affective Disorders by increasing serotonin production.
  • Reduces acute and chronic lower back pain due to muscle strain and core muscle strengthening.
  • Helps to deepen and redevelop the neuromuscular pathways.
  • Stimulates the neuromuscular system.
  • Improves muscle power and muscle strength
  • Body reshaping
  • Tones and increases muscle fiber
  • Less stress on the cardiovascular system
  • Improves postural reflexes due to the cross-over pattern of vibration.
  • Increases flexibility by providing aggressive stretch/relax action
  • Increases range of motion (especially important in golf and tennis).
  • Improves balance due to improved muscular communication.
  • Improves coordination because of better muscular communication.
  • Improves mobility due to the natural pattern of walking.

WHAT IS NEW IN RESEARCH?

A lot! See our health benefits research page. 

You might also check out the National Library of Medicine database, pubmed.gov.

Whole body vibratation has 40 years of research behind its science. As with any technology, the individual needs to take a critical look at the research and validity behind it. Research in numerous North American, European and Asian universities on whole body vibration continues. Most whole body vibration platforms originated in Europe and most research originates from European publications.

There are now hundreds of articles and influential peer reviews in journals such as Spine, Journal of Bone and Mineral Density and Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise discussing the positive effects of vibration technology. Presently, whole body vibration is gaining ground in the US and is now being used by high-level competitive athletes and individuals suffering from debilitating neurological conditions. In the past year alone, American researchers have proven its ability to improve body composition, bone density, muscle strength, and functional activity performance.

WHAT IS AMPLITUDE?

Amplitude relates to the lows and highs of the vibration platform. If your feet are placed in the center of the platform you will be exercising at a lower amplitude than if your feet are placed on the outer edge of the plate. The displacement on the outer edge of the platform is 10mm. Greater and quicker results are experienced when your feet are on the outer edge of the platform, however, this may be to aggressive for some bodies. Start in the center of the platform and work your way to the outer edge at you own pace.

WHAT IS THE AGE LIMIT TO WHOLE BODY VIBRATION EXERCISE?

There is no upper age limit to this type of exercise. By itself, it does not indicate a contraindication. Whole Body Vibration has many benefits for the elderly population, including positive effects on bone density, improvements in blood circulation, and increase in strength, balance and flexibility. All this is accomplished with less stress on the joints, tendons and ligaments than conventional exercise.

WHAT IS THE SCIENCE BEHIND WHOLE BODY VIBRATION?

The science behind Vibration exercise follows several different principles: 1. The Stretch Reflex: The movement of the vibration plate simulates the body’s natural ‘stretch reflex’ . This is similar to the knee jerk reaction that occurs when the knee is tapped by a reflex hammer in a doctor’s office. Without thinking about it, your body responds with a strong involuntary muscle contraction, leading to your leg ‘kicking out’. With Whole Body Vibration technology, these strong muscle contractions can be repeated at a rapid rate. At a frequency of 6 to 30 times a second, Whole Body Vibration can produce up to 1800 muscle contractions in 1 minute. 2. Nearly 100% Muscle Recruitment: Due to its involuntary effect on muscle contraction, nearly 100% of the muscle fibers are recruited. Compare this to conventional training where there is only on average 40% muscle recruitment. This benefits the rehabilitation patient looking to add stability and strength to all muscles around their joints and to the athlete looking to maximize strength gains. 3. Increased Blood Circulation: The gentle rapid contractions of up to 3000 times per minute allow the muscle to work as a pump in introducing blood to even the smallest blood vessels. This leads to the ability of the body to carry off waste products much faster, leading to increased peripheral circulation.

WHAT IS WHOLE BODY VIBRATION?

Whole Body Vibration is an innovative, safe, and effective exercise option. It is the use of a moving platform at specific frequencies and amplitudes to superimpose vibration on normal functional strengthening exercises. Whole body vibration works directly through the nervous system creating a significant increase in the normal physiological responses of the body to exercise.

WHAT MAKES WHOLE BODY VIBRATION EXERCISE DIFFERENT FROM CONVENTIONAL TRAINING?

Whole Body Vibration has the competitive advantage over conventional training due to its ability to provide a more effective and efficient exercise without the constraints associated with regular training, such as joint stress, lengthy repetitions and time commitments. Research has shown similar strength gains to conventional resistance training at a fraction of the time. Ten minutes of Vibration exercise produces similar results to 60 minutes of conventional training. In addition, there is less stress on the joints, ligaments and tendons with Vibration training when compared to regular resistance training. Therefore, Whole Body Vibration provides an effective solution to those that may benefit from weight training, but are unable to engage in that type of exercise program.

WHO IS THE IDEAL CLIENT FOR THIS FORM OF EXERCISE?

Our research has found the following people gain the most benefit from this exercise:

  • Geriatric/Aging Boomers for balance, bone density, muscle stimulation, mood improvement through serotonin.
  • Athletes who want to improve core muscle function, extremity stabilization, and overall body awareness (Mechanoreceptors from joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons aid in body orientation and Proprioceptors, which provide the sense of position).
  • People with busy lifestyles, especially for those who sit most of the day. The Whole Body Vibration machine can get blood flowing in a more time-efficient way than other forms of exercise.
  • Travelers and long haul truck drivers. Sitting for long periods frequently can cause blood clots or other problems, which this can prevent.
  • Women post-pregnancy. Certain postures will focus on strengthening and reducing around the hips, thighs and abdomen areas very quickly.
  • Back patients. It is proven to actually help with many lower back issues.

WHO USES WHOLE BODY VIBRATION?

Whole Body Vibration is used in hospitals, chiropractic offices and physical therapy clinics, rehabilitation facilities, fitness centers and in personal homes. This technology can benefit seniors, those with physical disabilities, athletes, or any person looking to improve their health and get fit. Due to its many benefits, WBV is quickly gaining acceptance by universities, professional sports teams, and health professionals in the rehabilitation and medical fields.

WILL I FEEL ANYTHING DIFFERENT WHILE USING WHOLE BODY VIBRATION?

Yes, it is common to feel itching in your legs during and after using the vibration. This is due to enhanced blood flow and it usually subsides in a few minutes as your blood flow returns to normal. As circulation improves to the lower extremities you will feel the positive benefits.

WILL WHOLE BODY VIBRATION IMPROVE MY FLEXIBILITY?

Yes, this is one of the first things you will notice. Your body is becoming more flexible and your range of motion is increasing. Research has shown that stretch positions with vibration training will give an even greater increase in flexibility. An extra bonus is that your muscles are stretched in the same position as in everyday movement. Whole body vibration works your muscles by gently forcing the muscle to contract and release. This lengthens the fibers of your muscles, in other words, it stretches them as the muscle lets go. Try this simple test. Stand on the machine with your arms out to the side. (If you feel unsteady place on arm out to the side and place the other arm on the top of the machine for support). Turn from the hips as afar as you can to the right and then the left. (Change arms when you twist if you need support). Now turn the machine on and stand for 2 or 3 minutes then try rotating again. You will be amazed how much farther you can twist and reach!

WILL WHOLE BODY VIBRATION IMPROVE MY GOLF GAME?

Strength, flexibility and balance-that’s what you need for a great golf game. Vibration has been particularly highlighted in the scientific and sports community in the area of explosive strength gains. Flexibility allows for an increased range of motion- in plain terms, you can reach back further and follow through farther, to make your swing longer. Vibration gives you the stability needed for accuracy, Use it before your game as a warm up or during the off season to maintain strength.