How they can boost your workouts

These machines, which look like platforms or scales, are designed to activate something whole body vibration (WBV). WBV forces the body to automatically contract the muscles.

Weightlifting coach Jarrod Nobbe explains that vibration plates help move blood by stimulating muscle contractions through rapid vibrations.

“Rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the muscles helps blood flow more efficiently throughout the body,” he says.

As Nobb adds, movement generally increases blood circulation and core temperature, preparing the body for activity. This means that vibrating plates can be an excellent heating job.

A 2021 education showed that WBV can be an alternative exercise for older adults that enhances the reinforcing effects of exercise.

Nobbe says this is because WBV engages the muscles in a way that mimics resistance training.

“The vibrations activate the muscles and force them to contract and relax several times per second, which can lead to increase in muscle strength and persistence over time, especially when combined with specific exercises,” he says.

Nobbe points to some anecdotal evidence that regular use of vibration plates can help increase energy levels, possibly due to increased blood flow and muscle activation.

“At the end of the day, I’m a big believer that movement is medicine,” Nobb says. “Studies already prove that regular physical activity improves mood, mental healthand promotes energy level.”

Nobb says WBV can reduce muscle pain, stiffness and inflammation by stimulating blood flow to the muscles. She explains that it helps faster recovery after exercise or injury.

WBV has legs is shown to improve bone mineral density, which Nobb notes can have a positive effect on those at risk osteoporosis.

“Mechanical exercises stimulate bone cells, potentially leading to increased bone density and bone strength, providing the same positive bone health benefits as resistance training,” he says.