Whole body vibration was originally developed for Russian cosmonauts. Because of the gravity-free environment, their muscles and bones were not loaded as they were on earth which resulted in a decrease in muscle and bone tissue.  By using vibration therapy before their departure, cosmonauts were able to increase bone and muscle density, allowing them to stay in space longer.  The therapy was then used to improve flexibility and strength in athletes.

What is whole body vibration?

Whole-body vibration therapy is used to train various skeletal muscles and stimulate many of the body’s systems. While standing on a vibrating platform, vertical vibration is applied to the entire body several times per second. This vibration simulates the vertical movement we do during exercise. Gravity also plays a role, compressing and relaxing cells. A lower frequency can be used for a relaxing session, whereas a higher frequency can be used for more intensive training.

Whole body frequency can be used in sports, fitness, aesthetics, rehabilitation and medical therapies to improve muscle strength and tone, reduce cellulite, increase bone density, enhance the secretion of hormones associated with exercise such as serotonin, and reduce the presence of stress-related hormones such as cortisol.

What are the benefits?

Whole body vibration strengthens muscles and improves circulation by acting like a pump on the blood and lymphatic vessels.  The subtle vibrations work more muscles and motor units than traditional fitness routines. The vibrations also cause bone tissue to compress and reform which strengthens bone mineral density.

Whole body vibration therapy is useful in the following areas:

• Wellness: decreases stress hormones, improves circulation, helps the body remove toxins, increases metabolism, improves sleep disorders, regulates hormones
• Fitness: strengthens muscle and improves flexibility without putting stress on joints, bones, ligaments and tendons
• Beauty: removes and prevents cellulite, tones the body, promotes weight loss, improves elasticity of muscles and skin, tones facial muscles
• Anti-aging: increases bone mineral density, decreases and alleviates pain, enhances joint mobility and flexibility, improves balance
  

Whole body vibration can be used as a complement to traditional strength training and aerobic exercise.  It’s especially useful for people who want to improve strength and fitness without putting stress on joints, bones, ligaments and tendons such as athletes, older adults, those with illness, disorders, and weight or injury considerations.

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