If you’ve been searching for a new workout or therapy to shake up your routine, a vibration plate might be it. Vibration plates have been around since the 80s. Only recently have they begun growing in popularity due to their accessibility and varied benefits.
But what is a vibration plate, and what are its benefits? Read on to find out.
Vibration Plate Basics
A vibration plate machine resembles a low platform or scale, and some models have a post with adjustable handles attached. When turned on, a vibration plate begins to vibrate. As you stand on the plate, your muscles immediately activate to counter-balance the vibrations.
A vibration plate functions to stimulate all your muscles, causing even the smallest muscle fibers to jump into action. Regular exercise can exert muscle contraction up to a dozen times a second. Whole-body vibration therapy can cause muscles to contract 30 times a second.
This method of using vibration to simulate exercise offers many benefits when paired with a traditional workout or stand-alone practice.
Benefits of Using a Vibration Plate
Whether you simply stand on the plate or perform stationary exercises, there are many benefits to reap from a vibration plate. We’ll review the vibration plate benefits that have been researched the most thoroughly.
Lower Blood Pressure
A 2012 study had young overweight or obese women use a vibration plate for three sessions a week for six weeks. At the end of the six weeks, doctors found a significant decrease in their blood pressure and improved arterial flexibility.
Increase Bone Density
One of the most proven benefits is an increase in bone density. A 6-month study in 2009 was conducted to determine if whole-body vibration therapy could improve bone density.
Doctors found that participants 58-74 years of age that used a vibration plate three sessions a week had increased bone mineral density in their hips.
Decrease Body Fat
Lose weight without breaking a sweat? Yes, please! A 2016 study had a group of middle-aged, overweight to obese women practice healthy diet and whole-body vibration therapy.
At the end of the nine-month study, doctors found the women had significantly decreased their body fat. Whole-body vibration therapy also increased their bone mineral content
Vicki Honey, the founder of the LifetimeVibe vibration plate, agrees that vibration therapy increases lean muscle and improves metabolism. Both of these result in loss of body fat and a more toned appearance.
Shake Up Your Vibration Plate Exercises
The benefits of a vibration plate can be enjoyed when simply standing. If you are up for a challenge (and your physician approves), try doing some traditional exercises on the vibration plate.
These can be squats, leg lifts, push-ups, and yoga poses. Adding the extra element of movement will improve your balance and reaction time.
Nothing but Good Vibes
Using a vibration plate is a great addition to a healthy lifestyle. Now that you know the benefits, it’s time to go out there and experience them for yourself.
For more advice and information on how to live a healthier lifestyle, check out our Health archive.
