July 19th, 2006
Power Plate Vibrating Exercise Machine a New Gym Favorite
By Alice Hill
RealTechNews
(Quick aside: How creepy is the guy in the pic? And the girl looks a little too happy to be a in a gym setting.)
There’s a new fitness machine causing a stir in England, thanks in part to Madonna. The Power Plate is a workout machine that consists of a vibrating platform you stand on and do light stretches and squats for 15 minutes, three times a week. Apparently there is something in the added vibration that stimulates the muscles and causes them to tire faster than a traditional workout, a chain reaction that Madonna claims causes her physique to remain toned. (Doesn’t she work out 8 hours a day? –Editors)
Critics say that this is no substitute for traditional strength and aerobics training, even though workout nuts swear by it. Downside? Expect to pay a lot. A gym version is $9,250 and the personal version is $3,500, but if you’re chasing down the latest fads, this is the machine of the moment.
How and Why It Works
(From PowerPlate)
The Power Plate produces a vibration through which energy is transferred from the platform to the body. By standing on the Power Plate you will notice how your body automatically adjusts to the vibrations. This mechanical stimulus produces a stretch reflex which, depending on the selected frequency, results in muscles vigorously contracting 30 to 50 times per second.
Exercise causes the body to tire; rest allows the body to recover. By repeating this process, the body adjusts to the level of effort, resulting in an increase in physical performance. This phenomenon, called super-compensation, similarly occurs when training on the Power Plate. However, compared with traditional training methods, greater results are achieved and hormonal production is increased in much less time. Each set is performed no longer than 30, 45, or 60 seconds in length, and training sessions on the Power Plate need to be performed no more than 3 to 4 times per week with each session lasting about 10 minutes of actual time on the Power Plate.
History of Vibation Based Exercise
“Originally developed by Russian scientist Vladimir Nazarov, whole vibration training was used to prevent astronauts’ muscles and bones wasting when they were in space. Later, Russian ballet dancers discovered that vibration could aid the healing of their injuries by increasing their muscular strength. Dutch Olympic trainer Guus van der Meer used this research in 1999 to develop the machine for the health and fitness sector.
“In addition to increasing strength and toning the body, makers boast that it can improve blood flow and reduce cellulite if used for 15 minutes, three times a week. Instead of jogging or power walking, users are instructed to do gentle exercises like squats or stretches on the platform. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, it is now being made available in gyms across the UK and has been recommended for osteoporosis and arthritis sufferers as it puts no strain on the joints.
“A spokesman said: “Power Plate offers the benefits of regular exercise - a toned body, better flexibility, improved circulation which helps reduce the appearance of cellulite, increased stamina and improved fitness and well-being.”‘ Source: Daily Mail
We Say: Doesn’t this remind you of those old fashioned vibrating belt exercisers people used in the 1930s? Maybe they were onto something (although the woman in the pic looks like she has a way to go.)
R.F.Johns Cambridge says:
As a long time exerciser I can see the benefits of these machines that will turn out to be quite popular among the public at large as anything that makes things easier they want.
The vibration shocks the muscles into working similiar to a bodybuilder pumping his arms fast so I am sure the user will feel they get a tremendous workout.
The main drawback is the fact that exercise for the general welfare of people is to increase the strength of the heart and lungs that takes a lot longer than the so called 15 minutes.
Also it is of little use if any in sports training as each sport is exercise specific, runners have to run,shot putters have to do heavy bench presses,etc
Remember Madonna probably has a lipo sunction machine at her disposal 24 hours a day for that quick touch up!!!
RFJ
July 19th, 2006 at 11:00 am
Alice says:
I would definitely give this a try, but Madonna is not really a good example when all she does is work out all day. I wonder if these are noisy and can you fall off?
And what is with the creepy guy!
July 19th, 2006 at 11:10 am
steve says:
http://www.zagarandsteve.com/index.asp
July 19th, 2006 at 12:44 pm
rocco says:
Haha that dude is a filthy filthy man…You cant see his hands behind the machine, i bet he’s rubbing his crotch.
Need speech bubble or thought bubble action.
*so baby mmmhmm you want a REAL workout? mmmhmm*
July 19th, 2006 at 2:16 pm
Mumblix Grumph says:
Why is the creepy guy doing the “Captain Morgan Rum” pose?
July 19th, 2006 at 3:25 pm
doctor says:
What a load of pseudo scientific crap…
July 19th, 2006 at 5:36 pm
quantum mechanic says:
Notice that the machine looks like a giant penus and the platform is the testicles?
July 19th, 2006 at 8:25 pm
coffeekitty says:
There was a study done on sheep with 20 min. per day on a vibrating platform vs. a control group. The sheep on the platforms had a moderate increase in bone density.
July 19th, 2006 at 10:28 pm
Tyre says:
I’d hit it
July 19th, 2006 at 11:01 pm
degustibus says:
Creepy guy? (look in the mirror) but then for real creepiness see the video of Bush groping the German chancellor.
July 20th, 2006 at 7:11 am
Mark Bredesen says:
The creepy guy is the inventor and he gets a hard-on every time someone tries his giant phallus. I needn’t tell you what happens when someone buys one.
July 23rd, 2006 at 8:45 pm
Buzz Off says:
Hey, a giant vibrating phallus! I wonder if they have a minature version? Wait a minute, I already have one.
July 23rd, 2006 at 8:51 pm
search engine says:
search now
August 6th, 2006 at 3:29 am
Jillian says:
I’m cracking up! It totally does look like a giant phallic statue! I actually used a PP NextGen for about 2 months and TOTALLY LOVED the extra energy it gave me! Anyway, I went searching for my own…. got the PP saleman to come down to about $9000 before I found my American-made version called the Hypergravity for $7500. I LOVE IT! It’s built out of steel and is WAY more intense than PP! I really feel like I get a more complete workout now. Everyone NEEDS to try this technology regardless of what kind of machine you get. FYI Hypergravity also makes a home version for $3500.
Here’s their site: http://www.wholebodyvibes.com
August 10th, 2006 at 11:14 pm
Bingo bob says:
Wenever you have an injury your body responds by tightening the muscles around the point, this tension is simply a high amplitude vibration. Massage is a low amplitude vibration. Piezzo electrics device are a super high amplitude vibration. They all enhance new tissue formation. Unfortunately, if you are over 30, new tissue formation begins to be a problem.
September 7th, 2006 at 12:07 pm
Bingo bob says:
Creepy guy’s foot is on the machine. He’s enjoying the shared ride far too much.
September 7th, 2006 at 12:10 pm
LLoyd Shaw says:
The Power-Plate idea is good exept for one minor floor. The machine is a complete fake. No tests , no awards , no engineers report or specs that blong to it. The real plates made of metal ( Europe and New Zealand ) have won all the awards etc,,, and Power-plate ( plastic,China ) just stole them .
You have to ask yourself one question. If the product was so good , why all the lies ?
September 19th, 2006 at 5:04 am
Joan McCallum says:
During a 3 month visit in England recently, twice a week I had a 10 min session on a simular machine called the Dream Healther 2000 at the Good Vibrations clinic. Prior to my trip I took part in a 3 times a week tread mill exercising regime to help improve my mobility hindered by blocked arteries. The treadmill has made some improvements but after a couple of weeks on the vibration machine I was able to move a lot fast and a lot further, plus toneed up while dieting. back in Australia for 2 months I am back to the treadmill but certainly do feel less enegetic than I did while performing the exercises on the vibrationg machine. The 10 min work out is more than just standing there which is why your personal trainer is with you at all times. I just wish I could find a machine in Oz.
November 14th, 2006 at 8:05 pm
nelke says:
http://www.nieuwsbank.nl/en/2007/03/19/J001.htm
March 19th, 2007 at 11:26 am
nat says:
there is one in oz! in heidelberg! only 800 dollars!
April 2nd, 2007 at 5:56 am
Takiyah Abdullah says:
I would like to get more information about your power plate vibrating machine. If possible set up a exercise center using these machines.
April 21st, 2007 at 9:53 am
Giovanni Ciriani says:
I actually distribute a competing brand in the USA. I can send you a collection of abtracts of sport-medicine research explaining the effects of vibration training. Send me an e-mail at Giovanni.Ciriani@Gmail.com.
April 22nd, 2007 at 8:16 am
Edy says:
http://www.bodydesign.co.il
June 18th, 2007 at 2:59 am
Silvia says:
hi everybody,
Can you tell me at what prices they are sell to public (in Euros ) ?
And can you give me some ideas of making business with them ?
Thanks in advance
June 22nd, 2007 at 1:07 pm
nan.c says:
You guys can make fun of it because you have not used it. After two weeks people would see my arms in a sun dress and ask me how they got defined and hard so quickly. I am stunned. I use it 15 minutes every three days. It works on every area of the body that you target.
August 1st, 2007 at 6:59 am
Fiona Ferguson says:
I have the usual bingo wings and would love to have toned arms! Does the power plate really work? Desperate to know…
August 2nd, 2007 at 7:58 am
joe says:
there’s one in the uk for 200 POUNDS
August 5th, 2007 at 6:28 pm
ramtzu says:
i just started using the mystery plate. i have been in fitness my whole life. i will be the judge if this thing is a bunch of hoopla. I am well conditioned, and avid biker, strenth training, surfing…. yadda yadda yadda. i will try it.
August 10th, 2007 at 4:23 pm
lisa maree says:
looking at purchasing one, please tell me if the cheap ones actually work or do you need to speed big money?
August 14th, 2007 at 11:27 pm
Giovanni Ciriani says:
Ramtzu,
you need to know how to use it. Did anybody show you?
Lisa Maree,
The cheaper ones generally have an inferior performance.
October 10th, 2007 at 6:24 pm
Lloyd Shaw says:
The Notice for PowerPlate N.Z. Ltds liquidation has appaired in the N.Z. Herald on 25th October 2007.
I the Plantiff Lloyd Shaw will complete this action on the 12th November in the High Court .
This kind of action in and out of court will continue until PowerPlate has either…
(a) Apologised for its past behaviour and negotiates a settlement for those effected by it unethical practices.
(b) Is dismantled globally.
I will do what it takes to give our industry an example of what not to do.
This industry can help the unhealthy population , but it will not happen with comprimise.
October 25th, 2007 at 5:32 pm
kirti says:
have prolapseddisc, is going for op in 2/3 months. Need to tone up before and was told to use power plate. Is it good for this condition or will damage more? Need help asap.
January 12th, 2008 at 2:26 am
tara dooley says:
i would love to buy a power plate for my home. . but i want to make sure its not a gimmick before spending that kind of money..
January 30th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
woo says:
say as you please,you lossers who are slagging the power plate off.well ive got one and really does work.id recomend one to anybody.
February 22nd, 2008 at 11:05 am
Macey F. says:
It works I have one! And I love it!
You can find a lot of info here:
www.myeuroplate.com or www.myvibraslim.com
I’m telling you once you try it you won’t believe it!!
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:44 pm
Lisa K. says:
I have been one my vibration machine for over a year now and have found it to really help my husband and I get into shape. We use a Tri-angular Oscillating machine called the Europlate which is quite different than the machine reviewed in this article. Our machine does not rattle your head, teeth and eyeballs like the power plate does. It is a softer vibration that feels more like exercise than violent shaking.
You can see the differences and read research here www.vibeshop.biz .
Lisa
April 3rd, 2008 at 2:02 am
MARVIN PURSE says:
VIBRASLIM WARRANTY IS NOT UP TO THE CUSTOMER TO BE SATISFIED, BUT UP TO THE COMPANY AS TO WHETHER THEY
WANT TO REPAIR, FIX, OR RETURN YOUR MONEY.
IN OTHER WORDS, IT IS NOT A
WARRANTY AT ALL. TO ACCEPT
THE PRODUCT, YOU ARE ASKED
BY THE “WARRANTY” TO TRUST
THE MANUFACTURER TO DETERMINE WHAT IT WANTS TO DO WITH YOUR DISSATISFACTION IN THE PRODUCT. I DO THAT WHEN I BUY A TOOTHBRUSH AND THERE IS NO WRITTEN “WARRANTY.”
DON’T “SPIN” YOUR MONEY.
May 1st, 2008 at 9:36 am
Margaret Levine says:
What’s you point Marvin?????????? That is a clause in every warranty???? Not sure where the downside is?
June 6th, 2008 at 10:08 am
Brian says:
I work with the Power Plate, and for all the people who say there is no research, please look at the Power Plate Website. There are more than 10-15 scholarly articles about the machine.
Secondly, the PP is different than all the other machines becuase of its three planes of movement. Foward-Backward, Left-Right, and Up-Down. EVERY other WBV machine only has up and down which does NOT train balance, or proprioception.
June 10th, 2008 at 5:12 am
kate says:
i just saw an ad on tv (australia) for a vibrating machine, only $400. does anyone know if it works or not?? i have read that some are bad for u in the long run.. i have very weak knees due to a car crash and wrecking my anterior cruciate ligament in the other knee due to a sport accident.. i need something that won’t cause pain down the track.. short term gains isn’t worth it if i can’t walk when i am an old lady!! Pease help.. i think it was just called “vibrating fitness machine”.. a global shop promotion.. receive now, pay after 30 days if u like it.. cheers, kate
June 18th, 2008 at 6:39 pm
marah says:
jus bought1!! its arriving tuesday, will sooon c if t wrks or nt!
June 28th, 2008 at 6:04 am
LeClair says:
We purchased this about 2 months ago for my husband who has Parkinsons Disease. It has strenghtened his arms and legs
without going to a gym. It replaces treadmill. weights and leg lifts for flexibility and muscle strength. It has no aerobic benefits…you would have to do that separately. We love it!
July 11th, 2008 at 5:42 pm
larry leigh, Ph.D. says:
Brian:
Where is the scientific evidence to support your statement that vertical (lineal) platforms do not enhance balance and proprioception. Show us the studies!
July 15th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
melaine Sacre says:
I have been working on the power plate for 2 weeks following their weight loss programme. I have noticed a major improvement, lost 2 lbs and genuinely feel it works and at £995 its excellent value.
July 24th, 2008 at 3:20 am
Lloyd Shaw says:
A few comments to readers…
(1) Real Vibration Training is good value and does work. It is a new science and has a long way to go before it reaches its potential. But the science is sound.
But the comments from viral marketers regarding Power Plate and Europlate are false. They fill forums with that stuff all the time.
(a) “Euro”plate is actually made in China . Its cheap and nasty.
(b) Power Plate is also made in China out of plastic . The studies they use to fool the consumer to buy their product are from high quality steel units from Holland.
(c) Power Plate have been caught red handed misleading the disabled in its marketing in the past. So their concern for peope with M.S. is zero.
If you want to know the truth about vibration training without the marketing visit www.vibrationtraining.net
Ask all the questions you want and get straight answers from those who will not try to sell you something.
August 12th, 2008 at 10:15 pm
Alyssa says:
hey my mom just got her’s in about a week ago and me and her have been using it everyday i use it 20 minutes twice a day, sometimes if i have the extra time ill go another 10.in the past week my calves have already started to tone and my cellulite on the upper leg is starting to go away. not a huge difference but something that i could notice. theres also different positions you can go on it not just standing but a sit up position with ur arms on it and as it speeds up u can feel ur arm muscles tighting. i measured me waist bust iner arm all that and when i measure myself in a months time i will keep u updated for anyone who is sceptical about this. also if u do purchase one make sure you do it 30 min before a meal or 30 min after.
October 29th, 2008 at 11:30 pm
Alyssa says:
oh by the way ebay people…got ours for i believe 750 canadian from a fitness store that u can bid on them without reserve
October 29th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
docz says:
I’ve been working with the power plate for nearly a year. Folks with restless leg syndrome and other ailments have found great improvement. Here’s the deal - everyone is at a different level of their problems. It may be an instant change or a slow change. Afterall, any exercise program does not change you over night.
Anyone who wants to know more can sure contact me!
rzortman@2ndwindexercise.com (I’m in Sioux City, Iowa) Thanks!
November 3rd, 2008 at 6:25 pm