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Power Plate adds whole body vibration to workout programs, providing improved muscle tone without requiring cardiovascular training or weight lifting. For people with many body types and ability levels, these machines may produce significant physiological benefits in just a few minutes per day. Machines are available in many fitness centers and may also be purchased for home use.
The idea of fitness through whole body vibration originated in the space program. Vibration was first used to condition muscles and increase bone density in cosmonauts from Russia. From there, the idea spread across Europe, the United States and Japan. Some locations feature centers that are established around the vibration workout concept.
According to manufacturers, a vibration workout produces many physiological benefits. Exercises who use vibration will see better circulation, strength and flexibility in the muscles. Also, muscles may recover better after workouts, and core strength may be enhanced by using a vibration machine. Enhanced metabolism and improved bone density may result with the use of a vibration machine. In addition, the program may elevate human growth hormone levels, improve lymphatic flow and reduce cortisol levels.
The benefits of whole body vibration have been verified by studies. Postmenopausal women who used Power Plate three times per week, 30 minutes per session, showed increased density in the hip bones, according to the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research. Also, seniors who did not have the ability to do many forms of exercise were able to participate in vibration programs, according to the Journal of the American Geriatric Society. After the program, seniors demonstrated increased muscle strength and speed of movement.
Vibration may also have some weight loss and toning benefits. According to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, a research study placed mice on a vibrating platform five days per week for 15 minutes per session. These mice demonstrated significantly smaller torso size after using the platform for 15 weeks. These results came about even though the mice on the platform ate the same diet as the control group.
With whole body vibration, muscles are stimulated even when the exerciser is not moving. In a natural response to vibration, the body contracts muscles up to 50 times per minute. Vibrations cause contractions in three dimensions: back-and-forth, vertical and side-to-side. As a result, exercisers ranging from rehabilitating seniors to accomplished athletes will notice a major increase in power and strength after a vibration workout.
Whole body vibration machines, such as Power Plate, provide intermittent bursts of vibration. People may choose to either stand with knees bent on the platform or perform dynamic exercises. The vibrating platform will provide fresh challenges to tired workouts. Even people who simply stand still will notice improved core conditioning.
Many fitness centers and gyms feature whole body vibration machines, and many manufacturers sell smaller models for use in the home. For athletes looking for a new dimension to their workouts or for people with mobility limitations, vibrating platforms like Power Plate will provide a workout boost. People should seek the advice of a fitness professional when first using the machine and should discuss the benefits of this program with their doctor. A Fitness Equipment retailer helping you find the best fitness equipment for you. Choose from many brands in Treadmills, Power Plate, ellipticals, and more! Physical Assets-The Fitness Equipment Store 110 Avenue Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 2H4, Canada 416-925-2021
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