Vibration Plates are a relatively new piece of fitness equipment. The main purpose and benefits of vibration technology are:
- Muscle Toning - Train muscles that are traditionally hard to work - Reduce cellulite - Promote good posture - Stimulate blood flow which helps with recovery from injury
If any of the above is what you're looking for then read on...our guide is aimed at explaining what to look for in a vibration trainer. If you're looking for cardio exercise then a vibration trainer isn't for you - you need to look at a treadmill, exercise bike or elliptical cross trainer. Also, please be aware that if you're pregnant, have a neurological disorder, pacemaker fitted or any other heart condition that you shouldn't use a vibration trainer. We advise you to consult with your doctor to ensure that vibration training is an appropriate form of training for you.
When you're looking at a typical specification of a vibration trainer you'll find quite a lot of different terminology. But what does it all mean? Read on and we'll explain more...
Vibration Type This describes what the platform that you stand on will do. There are essentially 2 type of vibration - orbital or see-saw. With the see-saw effect the platform pivots around the midpoint so that when the right side of the platform is at its highest point the left side is at the lowest - exactly like a see-saw. An orbital vibration trainer has a much less well defined movement - imagine standing next to a concrete breaker and you'll get the idea of what it feels like.
Vibration Frequency The frequency is how fast plate vibrates and is measured in impulses per second. As an example a trainer operating.at 40hz will move 40 times every second. Look for a trainer with a range of something like 20-50 hz. This will be ideal for new users who should start at the lower end (20hz) and for experienced users who have built up to the higher range.
Amplitude This is the distance that the plate travels from the lowest position to the highest position. For orbital vibration plates you need a range that is within 1mm to 4mm. For see-saw vibration plates then take a look at anything that has an amplitude of 8-12mm.
Programs Pre-set programs go through a set routine of varying the vibration frequency, amplitude and length of time that you exercise for. A good range of programs will keep you interested and motivated. If you start with the basic programs on a low setting, they will also ensure that you don't try to do too much when you first start.
Plate Dimensions This is the size of the platform that you stand on. Generally speaking the larger the plate, the more exercise that you can comfortably do on the machine. As a guide, look for a plate with dimensions of 45cm x 60cm as a minimum.
