Whole Body Vibration was developed by the Russians in the 1970's to combat the problems of bone and muscle wasting in their cosmonauts as a result of spending time in zero gravity. Impressed by the speed with which the cosmonauts regained their strength, Russian athletics trainers saw the potential for their athletes and used Whole Body Vibration to gain a competitive strength advantage over those outside the Eastern Bloc.

Tilting Vs Vertical Plates

Galileo was the first "Whole Body Vibration" training and rehabilitation machine produced. The tilting principle, with frequency settings from 5 up to 30 Hz, and variable amplitudes (from 0 to 13 mm) offer a great range of possibilities and have training and therapeutic applications and effects that differ considerably from what are called the "vertical vibration plates".

The vertical plates offer frequency ranges between 30 - 50Hz and fixed amplitudes of 2 and 4mm. Whilst research evidence exists of some effectiveness in muscle strength and power the gains are less than the tilting plates. Plus the tilting plates offer a significantly greater variety of options. Some vertical plate manufacturers are suggesting that vertical plates are more useful for toning and cellulite.

How it Works?

When standing on the rapidly vibrating platform the legs are alternatively rapidly vertically displaced, in a manner comparable to walking. The muscles of the legs, as in walking, then automatically dampen this vibration.

By varying the frequency of the vibration a variety of different therapeutic and fitness benefits can be achieved. Frequencies at low levels are better for balance, medium frequencies for muscle relaxation and recovery, and higher frequencies for muscle training.

The vibrations are too fast for a person to voluntarily react to; however they stimulate the muscles (via the stretch reflex), bones and tendons.