To paraphrase Coleridge, “Research, research everywhere but not a drop of proof.”
As revealed in my first two installments in this series, the quality of research provided by the manufacturers of Whole Body Vibration platforms is lacking. In this latest installment of Debunking the Myth of WBV I’m going to provide a review of items five through nine on the “Researches” (sic) page of the Hypergravity web site.…
Article comments
— go to most recent comments26 - Phillip Winn
$5-10k? You're kidding me!
Gee whiz, I paid a few hundred dollars for a home elliptical machine, which is wonderful, and another few hundred for one of those gadgety weight sets that uses pins to set the weight. It all takes up very little room in my house, and I need nothing more. Total cost: around $1000, not all at once.
Gee whiz. There are suckers, and then there are suckers!
27 - Rose
I know I am new to this discussion. I have been following about WBV and have interest in buying the soloflex unit. Interesting Blog. Forgetting the research for or against from a logical perspective, shouldn't any device that causes motion/stimulation to muscles have some positive effect. I don't believe WBV would be a as good as Resistance training but somehow for the more sedentary people out there, (myself being a physician who has been trying to lose weight after 2 children with cardio but not doing much strength training thus far), logically it would seem that this device might help.
I would love to see better research too but just because all the right research has not been done doesn't mean the premise is wrong.
For those who are interested I have absolutely no association with anyone or anything in the fitness industry except that I personally want to be more fit but do not have a huge time to train working full time and having 2 young children.
28 - Bobby
Not all vibration training devices are the same... Like in every field there are things that smell... and some others that just do the job right!
[spam link removed]
29 - HYPERGRAVITY
Hi everyone,
I'm announcing my resignation from Hypergravity.
I'm not going to discuss the circumstances surrounding my decision to leave, but suffice it to say I left of my own free will for reasons of conscience.
From now on when I post on this board it will be under my own name.
Best regards,
Christopher
30 - Rachel
As an owner and user of the Soloflex WBV Platform and an obese woman, I have a some thoughts I'd like to add to this discussion.
For the first 30 years of my life, I always weighed between 110 and 125 lbs. After I gave birth to my first child 8 years ago, I developed hypothyroidism and quickly gained a lot of weight. I have always been very active and eat moderate amounts of healthy food. Despite my healthy diet and vigorous exercising/weight training, I continued to steadily gain weight for the last 8 years, reaching a high weight of 228 lbs. I did not CHOOSE to be obese, nor do I sit like a couch potato - I work hard trying to get back to my normal size.
I began seeing an endocrinologist 8 months ago, had many tests run, changed my medications a few times and still had no weight loss - although I hadn't gained any more.
I purchased the Soloflex WBV platform 2 months ago and have used it 5 - 6 times a week for 10 to 30 minutes a day. I weight train, do yoga and stretching on the platform. In the last 2 months, I have lost 18 lbs. of fat and gained 4 lbs. of muscle (I have a body fat measuring scale). The only change I have made is doing my exercise on the platform instead of the floor. My flexibility has improved a lot and my measurements have improved as well. I'll continue to use the platform as long as I am seeing results.
I am not encouraging anyone to run out and buy a platform. This is just my personal experience that I thought I would share. Not all obese people are lazy and eat tons of junk food and if you have never tried using a WBV machine, maybe give it a try.
- Rachel
31 - Kim
Do you know anything about Juvent?
It looks more serious with better research. What do you think?
Kim
32 - ron
I have been using the Soloflex platform for about 20 min a day for three weeks. I already had the Soloflex station and added the WBV attachment. I can't tell any difference thus far. I'm not pro or con, but willing to try it.
33 - Lloyd Shaw
Lloyd Shaw
January 25th, 2007
Discrimination against the overweight with some weight loss machines ?
Are companies producing low quality Vibration Training units discriminating against obese people by having low ” dynamic load ” specs ?
This is the point where the machine loses speed and amplitude due to a load threshold being exceeded.
I will be looking at this closer in the future. With tests on popular brands being released. One brand already coming up short at only 80kg.
In the mean time a discussion around the ethics of this would be valuable
34 - Lloyd Shaw
Another dedicated Vibration Training link
[overly-commercial spam link removed]
35 - Lloyd Shaw
The writing is on the wall... Hate to say I told you so but...
36 - TC
Dear Sal,
I am from Hong Kong and dealer for FITVIBE brand vibration training devices. Recently, I founded a studio, named VIBRATION THERAPY INSTITUTE (VTI) to promote and study the proper use of Controlled Whole Body Vibration (I prefer to refer this modality as Hyper-Gravity Stimulation Training "HGST").
I respect your professional background in Fitness & Physical Training and your time in studying the literatures about this training method.
As you can tell from my background, we are in opposite positions. There have been a number of people responded to your criticism. For me, I just want to ask a simple question:
"Have you ever tried to train with a decent vibration device for several consecutive weeks?"
As a respectful personal trainer in the field, I believe it would be easy for you to obtain a demonstration unit from one of the suppliers for a free trial period. If you refuse to try it but sit there to pick flaws in others' studies or statement, forgive me to say, you have bias against this new or any new training method.
I do not agree Controlled Whole Body Vibration or Hyper-Gravity Stimulation Training is hype. I am a untrained person. I tried our first FTIVBE demo unit for several weeks and I could feel muscles building up. Once it also helped to ease my back pain. I have now a Sports Physiotherapist working for me because she believes in it. If it is just a commercial gimmick, I would not invest in opening VTI but use the budget (VTI is installed with 7 units of FITVIBE) to launch a large scale of advertising campaign and sell a lot of machines for good profit. I decided to make the commitment because I have seen result through my own eyes and therefore I solidly believe in this modality.
It may be true that we do not yet know the maximum potential of HGST or if it may cause harmful effect in long run. However, the difference between us is that you choose to criticize this new training modality by picking flaws from studies, I choose to understand it through practice and study.
Criticizing without first person's experience is quite unfair and those enterprises who try to take advantage on the popularity of Whole Body Vibration to launch their cheap vibration devices for fast money are unethical and they are doing harm to the development of ths new training method.
TC
37 - Phillip Winn
I've decided that the key to fitness is exercising with your body at a 13.1 degree angle to horizontal. But not just any 13-degree platform will do. No, you need my high-quality 13.1-degree platform to ensure that you get the best results.
I know you're thinking that this makes no sense. Why 13 degrees? Why 13.1 specifically? How on earth can that make any difference whatsoever. For all you doubters, I have just one question:
"Have you ever tried to train with a decent 13-1 degree tilting device for several consecutive weeks?"
Once you've done that, all skepticism will melt, i just know it. Don't let the science or reason or actual thought get in the way, order your 13.1 tilting platform today for only $295!
38 - TC
Hello Phillip,
I think we all should keep a open-mind.
Like to learn more about your 13.1 degree tilting device. Where can I obtain the information of your device.
TC
39 - WCD
I purchased the Soloflex platform and have used it for about 20 minutes every day for about a month. I have increased my flexibility considerably, feel much better, and have lost a few pounds. No other changes in my routine, other than I do my excercises on the platform. Not scientific and not trying to sell anything
40 - Sofia
I think this is an argument that will go on forever. I work in the fitness industry and have done so for 30years. Sports and fitness training has been around since the beginning of time. What I cant understand is why something that was originally designed for astronauts to increase their bone density is being advertised as something for everyone?? What is said and done in this forum is not true to what is being said within our society on a daily basis and what is being advertised and portrayed. I have read the past comments including individuals who have had weight issues, health issues or other. Society is renown for making excuses as to why we cant loose weight, be stronger or we are the quickest to find faults in things that benefit others. Bottom line, WVB is ANOTHER marketing object to make money... People may say that Gyms and fitness centres are the same.... true, you give a service and you expect to be paid, however, walking, running, swimming or any kind of sport will also be beneficial to your health.. WVB is not.. Do we encourage our kids to go "jump on the wvp for 20min?" or do we encourage them to go ride their bikes or go play ball?? COme on!!! THink about it... No wonder society is going to the pack when another 1 hit wonder crosses our paths and the focus of why we do this becomes foggy??? With all the physiotherapists I work with on a daily basis, NOT 1 HAS approached me and said this is the way to go.... theory.... if its not broken, dont try to fix it.. Thankyou!!
41 - Lloyd Shaw
I don't know where you live Sofia. But we have a problem , so we are trying to fix it.
And if you are going to make bold statements like " I am a professional , WBV is not good for your health "
The least you can do is be ethical/professional and put your proper name to your statement. So at a later date you can stand by it.
I have.
42 - Lloyd Shaw
And I can take from your statement Sofia you have and never will use new methods for exercise.
So that rules out
(a) Swiss Ball
(b) Weight Machine
(c) Cycle
(d) Wobble Board
(e) Treadmill
(f) Rowing machine
(g) Pilates Rack
Even just plain weight training wasn't introduced until the 40's , and warned against by most Doctors until recent years.
Dont you find your " no new technology rule " a bit limiting for your clients ?
43 - TC
Hello Sofia,
I see two groups of people involved in vibration training. One group are typical marketers, vibration training device means another product to make money; they don't care if it works or not. The other group truly believe vibration training and devoted to promote the use of vibration training. Lloyd SHAW and me are belonged to the later group. (I just know Lloyd from forums concerning vibration training)
Eventhough we say we can achieve the same effect of conventional physical training by doing vibration training. For me, I never suggest everyone should give up conventional training and switch to vibration training. For those people who have strong self-motivated mind to do conventional training, I applaud them.
However, you cannot deny there are people who do not do any exercise eventhough they know regular exercise is important to good health. And perhaps these people mean the majority of population. Frankly, I was one of them and you can call these people lazy or whatever. No matter how you label them or how much our health authority spend to promote the importance of physical exercises, you can never change these people's bad habit. Conventional training is just too painful to them.
If the advantages of Short Exercise Time and Less Exertion of Vibration Training can pull some of these people out from their sofa to start doing exercise, why can't you keep an open-mind to it?
You said none of the physiotherapists that you worked with, has recommended on vibration training. Don't you know vibration training was not taught when they studied physiotherapy? Most physiotherapists are lack of knowledge on vibration training. If they don't know it, how can they recommend or use it.
I am having a sports physiotherapist working for my vibration training studio. Before she came aboard, she had no knowledge about vibration training. She agreed to take the job because she was convinced that this technique worked when she tried it at her interview. In fact, I interviewed about 5 physiotherapists during recruitment, all had no knowledge on vibration training but they all agreed it was another form of resistance exercise after their trial.
We had a highly respectful sports orthopaedic doctor visited my studio to evaluate our facility and program; he was impressed and invited us to give a presentation on vibration training in coming sports medicine convention.
We have a member who is a medical doctor and an amateur athlete. He started his vibration training program two months ago as part of his preparation for a marathon run that took place early this month. He finished the run, came back to tell us that vibration training did help him to complete the run easier.
We are also helping a number of people with osteo-arthritic knee, osteoporosis and obesity.
The concept of vibration training plus a decent vibration training device certainly is another form of physical training.
TC
44 - Lloyd Shaw
PowerPlate founder has propery confiscated...
45 - Susan
You all can argue about WBV until the end of time. Meanwhile, I'll be on my Soloflex platform almost every night!
I am a 55 year old woman. I bought the Soloflex platform in September and since then it is the only non-cardio exercise I do (prior to that I'd used weight machines at the local YMCA three times a week for 2 1/2 years; I still do cardio machines 3-5 times each week). I do a combination of stretches, lunges, squats and upper body work with 8-lb weights on the platform.
Since September, I have seen very real change in my body, in particular a lean muscularity in my arms and legs that I haven't had since my teens. Even my KNEES look toned, a result which I wouldn't have even dared to dream!
It was never my goal to be body-builder muscular, all I want is muscle TONE, and for me it has worked beyond my wildest expectations.
This summer I will be wearing shorts and bare arms and my 20 year old daughter will envy my muscle tone!
I've also noticed two additional benefits:
(1)I sleep better at night.
(2) I'm feeling far less of the stiffness that creeps up on you in middle age; I pretty much bounce out of bed in the morning - instead of that slow, stiff straightening-up I remember doing not so long ago.
I've got no interest in Soloflex...but I love my WBV platform and am so glad to have found it. It was an absolute bargain.
46 - Lloyd Shaw
Yesterday I won a judgement by the Ministry of Justice against Power-Plate by a District Court Judge.
The ruling was to help me clarify I was indeed Power-Plates Product Manager ( 2003-2004 ).
Power-Plate had recently tried to defend itself from my exposure of their unethical behaviour by claiming I never worked for them.
That was found untruthfull by the courts.
The good that can come from this , is people around the world who have a legal case against Power-Plate can now call on me as an expert witness.
47 - Bob
Dear All,
I have spent the last hour or so reading all your comments with great interest.. the only thing that I would like to add, is that my wife says there is also another dimension that has not been discussed which is the vibro machine is far better than any of the Ann Summers toys that can be purchased and is wonderful for that "oh my god" experience!!
48 - Phillip Winn
Bob -- at least, a useful purpose for these machines! Seems like "toys" would be cheaper, though.
49 - David M. Bazett-Jones
My name is David Bazett-Jones. I hold a master's degree in Biomechanics, am a Certified Athletic Trainer, am a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and will be pursuing my PhD in the fall of 2007. I have sat and read all of the whole-body vibration (WBV) articles and comments with much interest. As a researcher and scientist, I enjoy a healthy debate. However, I will say that this has not been the healthiest debate.
Disclaimer: The abstract from my thesis (article is being reviewed for publication) is #7 on the Power Plate's web site. However, I will not endorse their product (or any one's product) because I feel that would preclude bias on my part. No product-comparison research can be found in the literature. I have no financial connections to Power Plate.
A few topics seems to have been contorted due to the author's bias against vibration. We must look at the two topics that are most mixed; the actual research done on WBV and the way vibration companies use that research. These are very separate topics and I will try to explain why. First of all, most of the WBV studies (that ALL the vibration companies cite) are good scientifically. They are not great, but that doesn't make them worthless. You must remember that research (and science) is a fluent beast that is always adapting. There ARE a few very good studies that have been done but the research on WBV is absolutely in its infancy. No matter what is stated on a manufacturer's web site or in this blog, we don't know everything about WBV. But, that can be said about almost every device, fad, diet, training aid, etc that is on the market right now. Even some of the surgical procedures that might safe your life have not been absolutely perfected by research. That being said, I don't believe that Sal M has given vibration a fair shake (pun intended).
Now on the second part is the way in which manufactures use this research to "prove" that their device works. Of the research that I have read (and I have read over 200 articles), I have found only 4 plates to have been really researched. These are Power Plate, Galileo, NEMES, and Juvent. When I first started vibration research, there were only a couple companies and now there are TONS, jumping on the fad wagon. They promote other's research as their own (except I do know that Power Plate separates theirs from others). However, this is only the result of the uninformed consumer. Look at any advertising and you will see practices that portray products in a better light than they really are (e.g. fast food commercials!). Just remember that the way manufactures use the research doesn't mean the research is bad.
Closing thoughts:
1. Is buying a vibration machine worth it? Pretty much no. Even the Soloflex version (which I have never tried but don't think much of it from looking at the web site) isn't worth the $400. If the gym you go to gets one, try it out.
2. Does it work? It does seem to work and be safe (if you don't stand on it for 6 hours a day 7 days a week). It does seem to be more effective in less healthy populations but this is something that hasn't really been looked at.
3. Is it better than traditional resistance training? Absolutely not. Are kettlebells better than resistance training? Absolutely not. Are swiss balls better? No, because nothing will ever beat good old-fashioned hard work. But if you hit a plateau and can't break it, will vibration be the extra little thing that gets you over it? Maybe but the same can be said about kettlebells and swiss balls.
4. WBV will never replace cardiovascular training.
5. No one knows if one manufacture is better than the other.
6. Keep an open mind but don't be naive!
I hope this entry helps with the healthy debate and with those looking to buy a WBV platform.
David
"Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything." -George Bernard Shaw
50 - Lloyd Shaw
Good comment David but one small thing you may want to look at while doing your thesis. When looking at studies on "brand" machines demand matching engineering reports first. So you know where your start point is for a results based program. Do not rely on the photos supplied as they may have been doctored by a marketer.
The machine you use or study may not be running to it's stated specs.
Example
example 2
Note: Both results where published in mid 2004 when Power-Plate released its new plastic model. But the actual tests where done in 2002 at the University of Leuven , Belguim using a stainless steel model.
I personally have photos of the original test machine.
They just swapped photos to suit their marketing. Making any studies on their studies useless to the academic community and consumers.
The new plastic units have failed subsequent engineering tests ( 20% + error rating )
But besides all that, good luck.
51 - Lloyd Shaw
Acceleration Training and Vibration Training/Therapy is the same thing in case anyone hears the term from a marketing company and is confused.
52 - David M. Bazett-Jones
Lloyd,
I understand your concerns regarding the claims by Power Plate regarding their fiberglass model. I also have those concerns with that model and many of the others on the market. That is why I tested it and reported the accelerations in my thesis (it is in review with the British Journal of Sports Medicine). Here are my results (with no one on it):
30 Hz, Low Amp - 2.16g
35 Hz, Low Amp - 2.49g
40 Hz, Low Amp - 2.79g
50 Hz, Low Amp - 3.08g
30 Hz, High Amp - 4.15g
35 Hz, High Amp - 4.87g
40 Hz, High Amp - 5.18g
50 Hz, High Amp - 5.84g
These accelerations are lower than reported by Power Plate. Since this was done with no weight on the machine, much concern arises regarding its use (plastic/fiberglass vibration models) in an obese population or a population with heavy, muscular athletes (e.g. American football, rugby, etc). I am aware that Power Plate has changed their model (the original design is now the Vibrogym) so some of their claims may not be as valid as we would all like. However, there has not been an independent research study on how different materials and weights on those materials effects its effectiveness. This is just another unknown (among many) of vibration.
Similarly, the different effects of vertical vibration (PP, etc) vs rocker-board vibration has not been studied, which may offer additional insight into the mechanisms of WBV. Just an additional thought.
53 - Lloyd Shaw
Yes my concern is from a trainers point of view when designing a program ( I design machines and matching programs ) you need a stable starting point. Without this the program is essentially random and hence unsafe.
No better than a trainer at a gym asking you to pick up a weight without knowing it's true Kg value and asking you to swing it around.
Just not done.
54 - Lloyd Shaw
Note. With a drop in G-Force comes a drop in Speed ( Hz ). So matching resonance Fq of bodyparts is hard to counter.
55 - Lloyd Shaw
VibraSlim a U.S./Canadian based company has been involved with Plagiarising an entire website for marketing purposes.
Absolute proof that this company is dishonest in nature and should not be trusted..
56 - Lloyd Shaw
Power Plate in trouble again. This time being caught using a world leading researchers name on their so called Medical Advisory Board.
This person has publically denied being involved or supporting the company.
Result ? They have been forced to take down every name from the list.
The academic community will not be happy with this and the backlash should come as a timely kick in the guts for a company that seems to know no ethical boundaries.
57 - Di Heap
David,
You say, "it's not worth buying a machine". In most cases I agree as a Good Studio provides an Instructor and program for the user in an encouraging environment; in my country at a very low cost, when compared to buying a top quality machine.
You said
"It does seem to be more effective in less healthy populations but this is something that hasn't really been looked at"... Again, it's something that is being promoted where I live and some Studios give reduced prices to those who have need and would benefit most. But, it isn't only effective with the overweight or those with specific health problems. Vibration Training is hugely sucessful as a training method for Sports people and also for those who think exercise is watching the Ball game on TV.
I know because I am a user of a Vibration Training and I have achieved amazing results and seen others in the studio also very happy with their program.
58 - Sandra
Hi, I am 53, and I have recently been diagnosed with osteoporosis. I am refusing to take the drugs that everyone is prescribing, and I have started an exercise program. I alternate rebounding and walking for aeroobic exercise, and every other day I lift weights. I attended a lecture given for osteoporosis at Emory University in Atlanta a few weeks ago and the Dr. cited a 6 month study on hip density in postmenopausal women using a WBV. I found the study published by the "American Society for bone and Mineral Research", on the Powerplate website.
I have not found any doctors that are able to help me find effective exercises for rebuilding bone. I have read that the weight lifting can rebuild bone in my spine, but not the hip.
If I purchased a WBV machine, I would just add it to my program and not use it as a substitute for exercise. My only problem is the price of the machines, and the fact that the technology is new and will probably change dramatically over the next few years.
Does anyone have any suggestions for a good moderately priced machine that I could buy and test this theory?
59 - David M. Bazett-Jones
Sandra,
I would say that the most researched (and therefore, theoretically safest and most effective) and best priced device ($2500 US) for osteoporosis is the Juvent (www.juvent.com). I have not financial interest in this device, so I feel I can give an unbiased recommendation. This device probably will not help with muscle mass and requires daily use (~10-20 minutes/day); however, it has been PROVEN to work. The other vibration devices have only gotten limited positive results (including a study that I did for 6 months). That is my suggestion.
David
60 - LLoyd Shaw
Yes David is correct. Do not purchase a random unit built with no expertise. With manufacturors changing designs and moving factories soley based on cost of production , who knows what you would actually get.
Juvent was built with purpose and expertise so would be my choice.
61 - TC
Just had a quick browse on JUVENT website.
JUVENT emphasize their device is very safe because it generates only 0.3G stimulus. It is of course safe but isn't it too gentle to trigger any therapeutic effect???
I like to describe this traing technique as Hyper-gravity Stimulation Training (HGST) instead of vibration training because the concept is to utilize hyper-gravity load to stimulate the entire neuro-musculo-skeletal structure to counter the stimulation. In other word, we need a sufficient hyper-gravity load.
JUVENT quote a long list of scientific studies on this training technique; however, most of these studies were done with gravity acceleration devices that JVENT call them dangerous.
I do notice JUVENT also quote a list of testimonials. I do not want to query these testimonials. However, if a device generating only 0.3G can work, perhaps we should reconsider our previous criticism on the cheap Asian replicas and gave them applause because these cheap replicas may also work and their prices are much much cheaper than JUVENT.
JUVENT describe other gravity acceleration devices violent because these devices can generate several to tenth of G-force. Readers should know there are so-called "violent vibration devices" from Europe being classified as Class 2A medical device and carrying "MDD" (Medical Device Directive) label.
TC
62 - Lloyd Shaw
Yes I do not agree with their putting down of other units that fit outside their programs.
But as for theirs , the energy is transfered very effectively through hard tissue like bone when standing locked legged on the units as in Juvents programs.
Something that cannot and should never be done on a workout unit.
They rely soly on the "shock" effect on the nerve cells in the bone to set off their bio-kenetic feedback effect. Not load bearing due to g-force acceleration as our units do.
My own "Required Force 1" series applies the same principles. As not everyone can afford to lose weight , especially when elderly.
And TC you may be correct in assuming a cheaper Asian model may surfice ,the only reason I would not recommend that myself is you simply have no idea what actual setting you are on when using something that cheap.
63 - Sandra
I appreciate all the comments, and now I would like to know what you think about the difference in the "Piston" vibration compared to the "Triangle Oscillation System". I have seen articles questioning the dangers of G force, and that is the very thing that is supposed to be good for you in rebounding. There's just too much information out there, and I need some clarificaton. Thanks
64 - David M. Bazett-Jones
From the very extensive research on vibration in the workplace, it has been shown that the most important vibration variable is frequency. Research has shown that frequencies between 0 and about 25Hz can cause many health problems. Many of these studies have been done with hours of vibration exposure, compared to a much less exposure (at least time wise) with vibration training. While it is hard to apply some of this research to vibration training (due to time exposure differences), care must be taken since the long-term safety of vibration training is unknown. Many of the vibration devices DO exceed vibration exposure standards for the workplace. It is for this reason that the Juvent (developed by Clint Rubin, a bone expert) has been developed.
The Juvent is the most researched vibration device available. It has shown the most promise and will (my prediction, again I have not connection to Juvent) be the first such device approved by the FDA for the treatment of osteoporosis. All other devices are considered in the same class as your typical treadmill (exercise device, not necessary for medical treatment). As far as bone goes, it seems that vibration of very small magnitude (gs, where on g is the acceleration due to gravity " i.e. the reason we don’t bounce around) can be just as or more effective than vibration machines that induce greater magnitudes. Keep in mind that this is for bones. It has NOT been shown that the Juvent increases muscle functioning or balance, two risks factors for falling. The Juvent’s web site claims that it maintains muscle mass and balance, however only one of their studies looked at muscle mass (not enough to show efficacy; I guess all manufactures have their not-so-accurate claims).
As far as quality products go, this is still unknown also. I have used the Power Plate (both old steel and new fiberglass models), Galileo, WAVE, Juvent, and others that I can’t remember the name off the top of my head. All of them (except the Juvent) feel pretty much the same when you are exposed to the same frequency. No one knows (I repeat, no one) if it matters whether you make it out of stainless steel or plastic. We can guess, but it is not known. I would love to seem Consumer Reports look into this. I will also say, give it 10 years; those machines still on the market are the quality ones. Only time will tell.
Lastly, to answer Sandra’s questions regarding the vibration mechanics. Most vibration machines use motor- or piston-driven vibrators and most of these machines produce vertical vibrations. As far as the “Triangle Oscillation System”, I would guess that the site that you are referring to is for the K-1 WBV machine. This is kind of similar to the rocker board design of the Galileo machine, however, the vibration produced by the K1 seems like it might have a very large horizontal component (vertical is what causes the loading on your bones and body, no research on horizontal). I would not put much faith in the K1 but then again, I would not trust 90% of the machines out there (I am a skeptic). There are too many unknowns out there to go drop even $500 (like for the Soloflex unit).
At this point in the marketplace, my suggestion is that you are going to get what you pay for (to an extent of course). Juvent is the best for osteoporosis, bottom line, as far as a researched device. Insurance companies may even pay for it, but that is not known. You may also be able to write it off for a tax break (at least in some states in the US) as exercise equipment. There are many unknowns right now. Anything you buy, you will be taking at least a bit of a risk. The key is minimizing that risk.
65 - Phillip Winn
"I am a skeptic" ?
Thanks for the laugh!
66 - sal m
i am truly shocked at the level of discussion that this subject has created.
For the vast majority of people - all but the most infirm - nothing will ever replace exericise. as one of the comments above mention, WBV does nothing to improve muscle tone and balance, two of the most important factors in producing movement.
all the scientific jargon in the world and arguments over the minutia with regard to frequency of vibration and the mechanical specs of the machines just obscure the fact that people need to move and in order to enjoy the true benefits of exercise.
sometime in the future there may be some valid use for WBV in some narrow segment of the population, but for everyone else nothing will replace exercise that involves weight bearing and ground-based full body movements.
67 - Dr. Christian Reichardt
I have been folloing this blog for a while now and would like to offer some insights.
I own a company called PowerVibe and we manufacture a unit called PowerVibe Pro. I preface this, so readers are informed of my financial position concerning WBV. I became interested approx. 20 years ago when working with US Olympic athletes, who were in contact with russian athletes.
Sal is making a good point: There is nothing better than exercise! But the reality is that the vast majority of people are not exercising, for various reasons: lazyness, time constrains, inexperience, injuries, pain, you name it.
WBV can offer an excellent starting point for all those who are currently not exercising.
Compared with other modalities, better units (above $2000) can offer a safe, fast, effective and uncomplicated way to get started! Will it be as good as spending the time driving to the gym, then spend an hour in the gym under the supervision and support of a trainer-no!
But how many people will actully go for that 3xWeek for 6-7 months?period of time? Very few.
On the other hand, 4-5xWeek 15-20 minutes WBV in the comfort of your home sounds like a sensible alternative at a reasonable cost.
More about the physiology of bone stimulation in my next session.
68 - TC
To Lloyd,
Thanks for the information. My comment on the Asian replicas was a joke.
To Dr. Reichardt,
You spoke what I want to say to respond to Sal.
To Sal,
It's like doing circle in the discussion with you. However, I still thank you for hosting this blog, providing us a platform for discussion on WBV.
No one in WBV industry, is trying to promote WBV as a SUBSTITUTE to conventional physical training. We are saying that it is a complimentary exercise for exercisers to achieve good result faster; we are saying that it is an alternative choice for the majority of population who do not like doing conventional exercises.
You refuse to accept studies and testimonials proving the effect of WBV, showing you are NOT skeptic but STUBBORN.
We have a client received ACL reconstruction two years ago. He has been following rehabilitation programs and going to gym under supervision of physiotherapists and personal trainers during the last two years, trying to regain muscle mass and strength on his operated leg but progress was not satisfied. He started WBV about a month ago, coming 2 or 3 times a week. He said his progress with WBV in a month time is better than what he has done in last two years.
TC
69 - Lloyd Shaw
Dr. Christian Reichardt...
Your company manufactors the machines yourself. Who designed it ?
The reason for my question is I do design units and its quality of production does change the results. This misconception has hurt our industries reputation.
As product manager of PowerPlate I saw this with my own eyes when they moved the factory to China .
70 - Lloyd Shaw
Sal M...
No one to date has suggested replacing exercise with Vibration Training. My goal is to get people who are not moving a stepping stone back into a way , and mindset of health and fitness.
When someone like yourself makes a definitive remark like "WBV does nothing to improve muscle tone and balance"
You could be stopping someone from even trying it.
What will you do if this does work and we are telling the truth.
Say sorry ?
71 - David M. Bazett-Jones
Sal & Others,
I want to clarify that my comment was not that "WBV does nothing to improve muscle tone and balance" but that specifically, the JUVENT machine has not shown this. However, there are quite a few studies, in both the healthy and "infirm", that show WBV improves muscle "tone" (the worst word in fitness history) and balance. To unequivocally deny any benefit before the evidence is conclusive one way or another is bordering on unethical, not to mention "stubborn." If this was the correct way to look at new treatments/interventions, medical research would be non-existent and we would never find cures.
72 - Lloyd Shaw
Real Health Concerns Regarding Vibration Training
Note: Vibration Therapy/Training has been used successfully and safely for almost 100yrs. With no problems recorded. It is only of recent concern that marketers have jumped into this technology with no back knowledge and only sales in mind. Trust me I worked for them and their concern for your health is ZERO. Anything that may divert a sale will not be approached let alone researched. The programs I originally developed for PowerPlate where rejected due to complaints from their marketing department. Follow these and you will get all the benefits with none of the safety concerns.
Please read below for further details.
The unrestricted/unsupervised use of Vibration Training equipment has been a concern of mine since I first started writing original material in 2003. As Product Manager of Power-Plate I saw the potential for abuse of the units in several ways. With there refusal to acknowledge my concerns one of the reasons for my departure. Some of them being.
(1) Overuse
(2) Incorrect poses
(3) Incorrect Fq
I will list the reasons for these concerns and why I believe the sooner the "real" industry starts talking to each other and laying down some restrictions , the better.
Overuse
Symptoms....
(1) Chronic Fatigue....
This can cause everything from just plain tiredness to a massive drop in your immune system. Which can lead to other health disorders. This one is simple , you ask you body to do too much and it can't keep up. Think about this , in an average Vibration Training session you may do approx 30,000 separate movements. This is like running a marathon for most people, and because it is actually do-able for most people, it is primed for abuse. But your body simply can't expend that amount of energy and keep going for long. You will get sick eventually.
(2) Hyperthyroidism....
This is a state where your regulatory glands are over activated causing a large fluctuation in your hormone levels. This can lead to fluid retention , problems with hormone sensitive organs such as the ovaries (for woman). To its extreme this condition can cause multi organ failure.
Note: I have had one case reported to me so far from South Africa where a lady was using a plate for over 40mins a day. And she was following her instructors advice !! So this theory was not a fancy-full idea as was put to me when I first aired my concerns.
Unfortunatly I expect to hear about more such cases before anything concrete is done.
Tissue breakdown....
This is when the healing cycle is not allowed to complete itself. And your body breaks down more cells than it can rebuild before you re-damage the area. Long distance runners have always had this problem with their knees.
Incorrect poses.....
This one sounds self explanatory but it is obviously not, from what I have seen on many a Vibration Training poster sold with machines and on the net.
Your joints are only designed to work at high use at precise angles , moving away from these angles can cause unnecessary wear and tear. It can also cause neck injuries. That is where a good instructor is very important , they will re-correct you during your time on the units so no problems occur.
Incorrect Fq....
This is a tricky one as so may of the units available go to the lower Fq , hence people believe it must be safe. The fact is lower Fq should only be used for limited Physio programs due to the unsafe nature of what they call resonance Fq. This is where waves bounce off each other causing a disturbance in an area. In this case in your internal organs give off their own resonance and matching these is not a good idea. They range from 5Hz-20Hz. Again mis-use could cause disturbance to the organs function. Keeping away from these Fq by a factor of 10Hz should allow safe use of units over a lifetime.
Note: Some cheaply built units are NOT doing the Hz setting showed on the display. Some are slowing down with only a load of 20-80kg. One major brand was tested unloaded at it was still slower by 13hz than its advertised specs. And that was with no-one on it. !!!
Now this article was not written to scare anyone off Vibration Training , just to show how serious we are about putting up this type of training for scrutiny . We will never create a safe industry by burying potential problems as is the normal procedure for marketers and corporates .
Kind regards….. Lloyd Shaw…….. Founder of Vibra-Train ________________________________________
73 - deborah
After two years studying a subject called vibrational medicine at the graduate level, I have definite concerns about the promiscuous use of mechanically-induced vibration for health.
There are studies that indicate that over-exposure to certain types of vibration can cause anything from detached retina to cancer. (Look up Vibroacoustic Disease).
I have no doubts that vibration may prove helpful, especially in the short term, but until the long-term effects are known, it seems to me sheer folly for gyms and trainers to expose their clients to the health risks and themselves to the insurance risks of this as-yet unexplored field.
It's like saying "aspirin is good for you" and then just randomly stuffing people full of aspirin. Caveat emptor.
74 - Lloyd Shaw
The long term health risks are known for exposure to Vibrations. They are fully covered in ISO 2631 studies.
Thats what responable companies use to develop safety programs.
What your concern should be is Gyms and Personal Trainers being allowed to run units without this knowledge.
75 - TC
To Deborah,
Misuse can always cause damage.
If someone raise a barbell wrongly, one might injure some muscle or even cause joint dislocation. Over-use on treadmill or static bike could also harm the knees. Should we consider to ban all these gymnastic equipments? Of course not!
Don't treat Vibration Training a monster. It has very good value in rehabilitation program for various neuro-musculo-skeletal pathologies; as well as in fitness conditioning.
Good education and good knowledge will help to eliminate the risk of injury in Vibration Training.
TC