Did you ever see the "I Love Lucy" episode set in that old fashioned gym with the vibration belt? It is hysterical! The vibration belt was popular back in the 1950s - 1960s, but then lost popularity. They were actually on to sometimes.
What works better than a vibration belt, is Whole Body Vibrational Training (WBVT). This technology also dates back to the 1960s and the space race .
The way WBVT works is that the platform goes up and down about 30 times a second. Every time it drops, your muscles go through an involuntary contraction. You are then doing 30 reps per second, without the risk of injury!
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The 10 Main Benefits of WBVT Are:
1. Reduced workout time
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2. Weight loss and cellulite reduction
3. Stimulates the production of human growth hormone (HGH) and testosterone naturally, as well as the reduction of the stress hormone cortisol
4. Increases bone density
5. Can also be used for warming up and/or cooling down, before or after a workout
6. Rehabilitation of injuries, increased blood circulation and tissue healing
7. Increase secretion of serotonin and norepinephrine
8. Increase flexibility, balance and mobility
9. Improved lymphatic drainage
10. Counteracts age related muscle wasting
While vibrating platforms are safe for most individuals, including the elderly, the American Council on Exercise warns that WBVT is contraindicated for those with electronic implants such as pacemakers, pregnant women and those with a history of seizures, thrombosis and/or tumors. I have had a WBVT unit in my office for about 4 years. I am also careful with individuals with severe osteoporosis.
For all others, WBVT has a lot to offer, regardless of your age or fitness level. Of particular note, sedentary and elderly individuals have demonstrated significant gains in most measures of muscle performance from WBVT, with results being comparable to traditional resistance exercise training programs.
Studies have shown that 12 minutes of WBVT is equal to 90 minutes of working out with weights.