WHOLE BODY VIBRATION:  I know, I know it sounds kinda like something you would use in the privacy of your bedroom right? Well its not, so get your head out of the gutter! 

Whole body vibration (WBV) is actually a fitness concept whereby a user stands on a vibrating platform to perform various exercises.  The platform vibrates at variable frequencies which cause the users muscles to contract and retract.  Recent studies show that standing on a WBV machine can be as effective for the user’s muscles as the same amount of time on a stationary bicycle. Click here to view the study.

These machines have gained a reputation for providing fast and effective whole body work outs with a wide range of health benefits. The theory is that the user can get a complete workout from just 10-15 minutes on the platform.  Some studies have show increases in lymphatic drainage, decreased cellulite, decreased cortisol production, increases in human growth hormone production, and increased bone density.  Many of these studies were performed by various Doctors and independent researchers. Most experts conclude that more testing needs to be done before the exact benefits can be identified.

When I first heard about these machines, I thought “ya right”.  My skepticism quickly faded when I got on a pivotal platform and cranked it up to full speed.  Within the first ten seconds my back and my abs began contracting.  As soon as I bent my knees, the vibration transferred directly into my quadriceps and hamstrings.  Now I use a whole body vibration machine on a regular basis for toning up.  Some manufacturers make over-sized platforms that allow you to do weighted exercises like barbell squats.  If you think regular squats are tough, wait until you try a proper vibration training squat.  

Whole Body Vibration
I have tried various WBV machines and have found that some feel better than others.  I tried three different models from a company called PowerPlate that ranged in price from $2,500 to over $10,000. When initially standing on one of these platforms, the vibrations transferred straight into my body all the way up to my head.  Its not for everyone especially me.  I couldn’t stand on that machine for more than a minute before I felt like my teeth were going to grind away and my eyeballs were going to pop out.  I  then tried a pivotal vibration unit called NitroFit which rocked my body from side to side.  I liked this machine because it started at lower speeds and allowed me to gradually work my way into a full vibration.  Even at the highest speeds my head didn’t take on very much vibration at all.  I went on the internet to do some more research and found a lot of random explanations about all of these vibration technologies. 

The most comprehensive overview of WBV that I found was from Wikipedia– I suggest giving a quick read so that you can better understand what WBV is about.

Click Hereto go to WIKIPEDIA’s Explanation of Whole Body Vibration.

Have you been on a whole body vibration Machine or  do you own a whole body vibration machine?

Tell us about it!