Vibratory platforms enable users to train their bodies and their muscles and to trigger different body reactions by simply standing on a platform that vibrates and exposing the muscles to these vibrations. Thus these vibratory platforms are used in a wide variety of uses that include: physical fitness, sports and athletics, medical rehabilitation, and aesthetics.
Many research studies have been done regarding the effects of vibratory platforms are more studies are being done every year. These studies investigate the
effects of vibratory platforms on muscle toning and muscle strength, trimming down cellulite, production and secretion of hormones, and even bone density. These studies are usually peer-reviewed and are published annually.
Vibratory platforms work by exposing the whole body to vibrations while the person is in a static position on the machine. The vibrations are usually generated by motors that are attached to the platform. Most vibratory platforms have devices which allow the user to determine the different parameters that affect the effectiveness of the machine. These parameters include the magnitude of the vibration, the frequency or speed of the vibration, and the direction of the vibration.
There are 4 major
types of vibratory platforms. These are: (1) High Energy – Lineal platforms, (2) Premium Speed - Pivotal platforms, (3) Medium Energy – Lineal platforms, and (4) Low Speed – Pivotal platforms.
The high energy – lineal platforms are mostly found only in commercial establishments such as gyms and training studios. The vibration of this type of platform is lineal or upward thus it elicits very strong stretch and reflex contraction in the muscle fibers.
The premium speed – pivotal platforms on the other hand use a teeter-totter type of move direction. This type of vibratory platform is usually used for physiotherapy sessions when it is set at lower speeds. At higher or premium speeds however, it can be used as an effective exercise workout. This type of vibratory platform is available in commercial models as well as home models.
Medium energy – lineal platforms is the most common type of vibratory platform available. However, this does not mean that it is the most effective or the best type there is. This is actually the type that is the least effective because it has lower vibration speeds and has 3D vibration direction. Most of these platforms are even made of plastic which means that it will probably not last as long as the other types.
Low speed – pivotal platforms are most often used only for therapy sessions and treatments.
Short term effects of vibratory platforms on fitness include rendering muscles to be able to produce more force by inducing more muscle contractions in less time. This effect however is largely dependent on the amount of time spent on the machine. Exposing the muscles to vibration for too long can result in muscle exhaustion and fatigue which would cause a diminished performance for the muscles.
Vibratory platforms also help in improving the circulation of blood in the body. Because the vibrations activate the muscles to contract and to relax at a rapid pace, the muscles in effect act as additional pumps that help push the blood through the blood vessels. The vibrations also cause the blood vessels to widen which again helps in the improvement of blood circulation.
