Kwikfit4u Whole Body Vibration : How It Works and History

Whole Body Vibration equipment is based on a type of technology that produces vibrations, a sort of rocking movement that simulates walking, but is super fast and with little or no impact. The body's muscles respond to these oscillations, which shift the weight from side to side at various speeds which are set by the user. When your weight shifts to one side all the muscles on the other side contract to restore your balance and equilibrium. Muscles will react multiple times per second. As acceleration increases, your body feels like it weighs more and responds by working against a greater load of gravity.

This repeated alternating contraction-relaxation response stimulates the muscles and the circulation, thereby prompting lymphatic drainage. It also oxygenates the blood which delivers oxygen to all of the cells and strengthens the muscles, targeted or specific muscle groups can be enhanced with different postures and positions; doing squats, lunges, push-ups, etc.

A Whole Body Vibration workout can be as passive or aggressive as the person using it wants it to be, so it's great for people who want a good workout that can quickly work all of the muscles at once. In fact, 10 minutes on a Whole Body Vibration machine is equal to one hour of conventional exercise in a gym or fitness center.

Research from more than 30 universities worldwide back up Whole Body Vibration's effectiveness in increasing strength, building bone mass and density, increasing metabolism (up to 18 percent from 10-minute sessions three times a week for six weeks), burning fat, boosting energy, toning skin, decreasing cellulite (by up to 26 percent in 24 weeks) and helping to release more of the "feel good" hormone serotonin.

Whole Body Vibration exercise engages 97 percent of your muscles all at once, which is why it works so quickly. In fact, when first starting out, it is recommended not to use it for more than 10 minutes at a time.

In addition, studies have found benefits for ADHD and autism because it has a calming effect. A study by Ohio University showed a 30 percent average reduction in cortisol levels with regular ten minute workout sessions, three to four times a week.

No need to worry about what to wear with this no sweat workout. You can wear anything. Regular clothes are fine, except high heels. It is recommended that you wear flexible-soled shoes to ensure the correct transfer of vibrations to the body and producing little friction and impact as possible. If you want to train barefoot, you can use a rubber mat or towel for comfort.

Random, related fact: Whole Body Vibration technology is being used for racehorses as therapy if they pull a muscle to facilitate rapid healing and also to build strength and improved muscle response in healthy horses.

Whole body vibration is not a new concept; exercise scientists have been studying the effects of intense vibrations for four decades. The technology is based on Rhythmic Neuromuscular Stimulation which is described as ‘cyclical vibrations capable of improving the condition of the joints relatively quickly’. It is also referred to as Biomechanical Stimulation.

Originally developed by Russian scientist Vladimir Nazarov, whole body vibration training was used to prevent cosmonauts’ muscles and bones from decreasing in density when they were in space; the weightless atmosphere pre-disposed both cosmonauts and astronauts to osteoporosis. Traditional resistance training in micro-gravity situations was useless but scientists found that standing on a vibrating platform stimulated muscle and bone development.

Later, it was discovered that Russian ballet dancers could hasten the healing process of their injuries as circulation to the affected area improved from the use of the intense vibration.

Now, Whole Body Vibration is widely used in commercial and residential applications for its many benefits and can be used by almost anybody to meet requirements such as rehabilitation, getting started in an exercise program or as an additional aspect to any traditional strength and training program.

Whole Body Vibration can be used by the elderly, inactive, overweight or any person that wants to feel more energetic and alive. See our section on Health Benefits.

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