Exercise Equipment:
Vibration Exercise Equipment - Is It a Scam?
by Ainuddin Mohamad
The theory behind vibration exercise equipment was
actually generated for the Russian space program. With zero
gravity, there is no resistance to work your muscles, and with
prolonged stay in space can lead to muscle deterioration and
even loss in bone density. To fight this...
One of the newer products on the market is vibration exercise equipment.
Claiming to help do everything from toning muscles to improving strength and
bone density, some people are turning to this controversial equipment to reach
their workout goals.
The theory behind vibration exercise equipment was actually generated for the
Russian space program. With zero gravity, there is no resistance to work your
muscles, and with prolonged stay in space can lead to muscle deterioration and
even loss in bone density. To fight this, the Russians came up with vibration
exercise.
The theory is simple. The person using the equipment merely gets onto a
platform. They can stand, sit, lay down, or even focus the platform on certain
body parts. This platform creates a vibration, which is sent through the body.
In reflex the muscles contract. This causes tendons to stretch, and increases
blood flow and improving blood oxygenation. This strengthens and tones them
without effort on the person’s part. Since the vibrations get sent through the
entire body, all the muscle groups are affected. Ultimately, the makers of the
equipment claim that it will help increase range of motion, coordination,
posture, bone density, and even decreases cortisol, the stress hormone. It is
said to be relaxing, which lowers stress and can even eliminate tension related
pain. They also claim that anyone can use the equipment – whether they are young
or old, skinny or overweight, a seasoned athlete or beginning exerciser.
The efficacy of the equipment seems to be proven in the space program itself.
With using the equipment, the Russian space team was able to spend a record of
420 days in space. In comparison, the Americans, who trained with traditional
workout equipment, have only stayed 120 days because their bones and muscles
started to give out.
Research now is turning to study the use of vibration exercise in medicine and
rehabilitation programs. It is being used to help accident victims and coma
patients regain use of their muscles with some success.
The makers of vibration equipment claim that the equipment stands up to the
highest possible safety standards. The machine itself seems to be user-friendly
– they take up little space and do not require much maintenance. They are
reputed to be so easy to use that you do not even need to change your clothes.
However, if your goal is to lose weight, you may wonder whether or not the
equipment will work with you.
One thing to keep in mind is that astronauts, and the sports teams endorsing
vibration exercise equipment, are already in a pretty healthy state. They watch
what they are eating and are active. It is kind of hard to binge on potato chips
and ice cream when you are thousands of miles away from the closest convenience
store. To get the most out of any workout, including that with vibration
equipment, to get the best results you will want to make lifestyle changes as
well. This includes everything from eating a healthy diet to taking vitamins, to
spending fewer hours in front of the TV. Before starting any new exercise
program, you should always speak with your doctor. This is especially true if
you have experienced illness or injury, or if you are elderly or severely
overweight.
There are some specific instances where vibration technology should not be
considered an option. These include, but are not limited to, pregnancy, advanced
heart disease, if you have a pacemaker, if you have just had surgery, if you
have hip or knee implants, severe diabetes, epilepsy, severe migraines, or
recently placed IUD’s, pins, or plates. Once again, always check with your
doctor before using this equipment.
Another thing to consider is the hefty price tag. Vibration exercise equipment
starts at over $2000, and goes up dramatically from there depending on the model
and manufacturer. If you are on a budget, you might look into trying the
equipment out at a gym or spa before making the leap to purchasing one for your
home.
With all this, it does appear that vibration exercise equipment can be
beneficial to your health. After weighing the factors, you can make the decision
about whether or not it would be a helpful addition to your home gym.
About the Author
Ainuddin Mohamad is the Webmaster of
http://www.BestWebsites.com.my which is a Directory of Best Websites. Since
July 2000
BestWebsites.com.my has featured thousands of best websites in many
categories of interest with descriptions/reviews given by leading publications
and webmasters.
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