FAQ's: Does vibration training work or is it a gimmick?

If anyone's not heard of vibration training, you basically perform exercises on a vibrating platform. There's lots of hype at the moment about 'a full workout in 10 minutes' and coverage in glossy magazines showing celebrities using them. It's easy to see why people might think it's a gimmick. Is it too good to be true?

The principle behind vibration training is extremely sound. force = mass x acceleration. To improve strength of the muscles a force needs to be applied. Traditional weight training involves using weight (mass) to overload the muscle. Vibration training instead uses acceleration caused by the high speed movement to apply an increased force.

If used correctly, vibration training is very effective. I use Powerplate at a weight loss clinic in Fulford, York where clients are generally looking for weight loss and toning. In this case, the main advantage comes down to time. Resistance training is hugely beneficial for weight loss. By increasing lean muscle tissue you increase your metabolic rate and burn more calories even when you aren't doing anything. Many people who wouldn't be prepared to spend three hours a week in the gym will do a couple of 20 minute sessions on Powerplate each week and can acheive better results in a fraction of the time.

I also use Powerplate in rehab work with clients with postural problems as well as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and Parkinsons and have seen some fantastic results. Loads of scientific studies also showing this method of training to be hugley beneficial.

Vibration training really comes in to it's own when combined with other methods of training. It's fantastic for correcting faulty movement patterns (the sort of thing that will lead to injury and pain if not corrected) before progressing to more complex movements. Also great as part of a warm up and cool down. Can even be used to reduce cellulite by increasing blood flow and helping get rid of toxins.

A number of gyms are starting to install these machines without providing adequate trainging for their staff on how to use them. Used incorrectly you will be dissapointed with the machines and consider them overhyped and useless. Used correctly, the results are exceptional. I definately think vibration training is here to stay.

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