CALGARY- It seems like one of the greatest inventions ever for a couch potato. Imagine slimming down and getting stronger, by simply standing on a vibrating platform.
Vibration machines have been gaining in popularity—but do they really work?
“These kinds of products have a lot of claims associated with them,” says Sandro Nigg, co-director of the Human Performance Lab at the University of Calgary. “Simply put, we are looking to verify some of these claims.”
He’s part of a team undertaking a two-year study that will focus on how the vibrations impact seniors, active youths and young adults who exercise less than two hours per week.
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“We’re going to look at the long term effects of these machines on things like balance, blood flow and strength.”
The study will also measure vibration machines’ immediate impact on muscles.
Don Hartwell, president of Total Image Fitness which develops the machines, is eagerly anticipating the results.
“I ruined my back in the industry I was in and had four lower back surgeries,” he explains. “I happened upon a vibration machine similar to what we have, and within three months my back totally changed, I became strong again, I was able to take up golfing again.”
Hartwell stands behind his machines, but agrees the research is thin and looks forward to the researchers’ findings.
The study should be wrapped up by the end of 2015. If you are interested in being part of the study, contact Karin at klienhard@kin.ucalgary.ca to find out if you’re eligible.
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