Short-Term Training Program Using Whole Body Vibration with Body Weight Exercises Improves Physical Functioning

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of a short-term oscillatory high amplitude (15-24 mm) Whole Body Vibration (WBV) training program on muscular power, core strength, dynamic balance, and squat mechanics. Methods: Twenty-seven recreational adults between 18 and 70 years old (n=9 females, n=18 males) volunteered to participate. We used a between group study to investigate the improvements associated with a 4 weeks (12 session) program of body weight exercises (Hip hinge, Squat, Quadruped, Single leg stance) performed on the Dr. Fuji® FJ-700 vibration platform (VIB) as compared to a control group (CON) and the same exercises performed without WBV (GRD). Pre and post intervention assessments included the timed plank, kneeling chest launch, Y-balance test, and composite score from Fusionetics squat analysis™ program. Results: Pre to post percent changes for VIB group for the kneeling chest launch (10.3% ± 7.3%), timed plank (20.2% ± 5.9%), Y-balance (left) (10.7% ± 7.6%), Y-balance (right) (8.0% ± 1.2%), and for Fusionetics™ (4.6% ± 1.4%) were greater than improvements than GRD or CON. The Kneeling Chest Launch, Timed Plank and Y-Balance (left leg) demonstrated significant improvements for VIB group (p<0.01). Conclusion: These data suggest physical improvements in minimal time with only 12 sessions when WBV is added to body weight exercises. Typically, it takes much longer time frame or a higher intensity of exercises to see gains in upper extremity and core muscular endurance and power and lower extremity dynamic balance.