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About Whole Body Vibration Therapy — Proven Technology
Vibration training is relatively new to the fitness industry but the technology was developed in the 1960s for Russian cosmonauts to prevent muscle atrophy and loss of bone density due to the lack of gravity in space. This proven technology is now used by elite athletes, those rehabilitating from an injury, senior fitness enthusiasts and those interested in expanding their exercise regiment to take advantage of the health benefits achieved by using whole body vibration therapy.
Health Benefits
Whole body vibration therapy is an excellent complement to traditional cardiovascular exercise and strength training. It is beneficial for seniors. Benefits of using a vibration trainer include:
- Improved Muscle Strength
- Improved Flexibility and Joint Range of Motion
- Improved Balance and Mobility
- Increased Bone Density
- Improved Hormone Levels
There is also research showing that vibration technology can be overused if used too frequently or for too long during each session.
How it Works
Like many technologies created to solve problems in space, the solutions are rooted in simplicity and logic. When muscles and bones are used they get stronger. Whole body vibration is achieved by being on a platform that vibrates at a high frequency, causing your muscles to contract and stretch to maintain balance without your brain being actively involved. The rapid involuntary reflex intensifies even the simplest exercises. This fast repetition of your muscles reacting along with the controlled low impact to the bones creates the growth and strength.
 The primary use of a vibration trainer requires that you simply stand on the vibration platform in proper position while the vibration plate moves. Duration and frequency are important elements to consider in using a vibration trainer. If you're physically fit, whole body vibration exercise sessions should last no more than 15 minutes. If you're just beginning an exercise program, limit your time to 10 minutes per session. Whole body vibration therapy should be used 2-3 times a week to supplement your cardiovascular workouts, with adequate time in-between sessions to recuperate. A simple and quick whole body vibration therapy workout on the LifeSpan VP1000 can be a very effective one.
In addition to standing in an upright position, there are many other uses of the LifeSpan Vibration Trainer to increase your physical activity and improve your strength. The images that follow illustrate these uses which include calf stretch, lunges, squats, pushups, sit-up twist and tricep dips.
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