The use of whole body
vibration technology is not new; in fact, WBV machines as we know them today
are not completely different from the models used a few decades ago, the basic
functioning principles being the same.
A whole body vibration
machine sends vibration waves throughout the body, stimulating muscle
contractions, enhancing the circulation of blood and lymph and contributing to
an overall better health state.
WBV platforms are used
all over the world, in fitness centers, beauty salons, health clubs and
hospitals, being excellent additions for the treatment of various conditions,
from osteoporosis to diabetes and COPD. They’re also useful tools for fitness
enthusiasts who want to increase the intensity of their workouts, and for
athletes who are looking for more diversity in their warm-up, stretching or
training sessions.
An innovative fitness
and health device, a whole body vibration machine can provide a wide range of
benefits to people of all ages, but there are also some potential dangers associated
with this form of workout and therapy. So let’s take a look at some things you
should ask your therapist or trainer before using a WBV machine for the first
time.
1. What are the
contraindications for whole body vibration?
As any other form of
exercise, WBV can be dangerous for some groups of people. For example, patients
who have suffered recent fractures or have recent metal implants, those who
have kidney stones, those who suffer from chronic conditions, as well as people
with diabetic ulcers or epilepsy should avoid using vibration machines.
Although there’s no
documented study on WBV training in pregnant women, it’s recommended for
expecting women to opt for other types of workouts, and avoid vibrating plates.
So in general, it’s always better to ask for professional or medical advice
before starting a WBV routine.
2. Is training on a whole body vibration machine safe for healthy
people?
The short answer is
yes, and even for people with various ailments: this method can lead to
improvements in their health state. Whole body vibration machine training has
been found by hundreds of studies to be risk-free in healthy adults, in
teenagers and in older people, women and men alike.
There aren’t many
documented side effects except for dizziness in some cases, or a tingling
sensation in the limbs if the body is not used with the enhanced blood flow.
The number of people who experienced negative reactions from WBV is very low.
Still, this doesn’t mean training on a whole body vibration machine will have
the same effects on anyone. So your body might react differently until you get
used to this method of training.
3. What can I expect in terms of results from a whole body vibration
machine?
A vibration platform
is both a training and a treatment tool, which means there’s two main
categories of effects: first, you can expect improvements in your appearance.
Your body weight may drop, your body fat percentage may drop, you may see that
your legs and feet no longer look swollen, your belly looks less bloated, your
skin and hair look nicer.
These happen because
WBV not only strengthens the muscles and improves the circulation of the blood
and lymph, but it also supports the elimination of toxins from the body,
improves the mood by regulating hormone levels, and improves the flexibility of
muscles and joints.
You can expect to have
more energy, to sleep better, to have more mental clarity, and to see your
flexibility and balance improving. WBV has been found to be useful in
regulating blood sugar levels, in speeding up recovery from injuries, in
improving the pulmonary capacity, the bone density, in decreasing cellulite
appearance and decreasing back pain.
All these are effects
that may be experienced after training on a whole body vibration machine. Yet,
don’t expect to notice significant improvements with only 1 training session
per week. A whole body vibration session takes around 10 minutes per day, and
should be practiced consistently for long-term results.
