This could be the easiest workout yet – and it’s ‘JUST as effective as a 45-minute uphill walk’
Using power plate vibrating machines for 20 minutes is as good at combating obesity as a 45-minute walk uphill, the study showed
POWER plate machines that vibrate the body are as effective as a regular work-out at combating obesity, experts have revealed.
Twenty minutes on a whole-body vibration machine had the same effect as a 45 minute up-hill walk – without the sweat.
Users sit, stand or lie on a vibrating platform.
This causes the muscles to contract and relax involuntarily multiple times every second – simulating conventional exercise with no exertion.
The devices cost £165 to £1,200 and have become a popular way of getting in shape for those who are too busy or lazy to run, cycle or gym.
Researchers from Augusta University, in Georgia, United States, put mice through a 12-week exercise programme.
One group had a 20-minute daily session on the WBV, while the other spent 45 minutes a day on a treadmill, with a slight incline.
For comparison, a third group did not exercise.
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Mice that had been genetically modified to grow obese showed similar health benefits from vibrating and the treadmill.
They gained less fat after vibrating or walking than those in the sedentary group and also developed stronger muscles, greater insulin sensitivity and signs of bone growth.
There were no significant effects in the healthy – non-genetically modified – mice.
Researchers say the findings suggest WBV may be a useful supplemental therapy for those who are obese.
Study leader Dr Meghan McGee-Lawrence said: “Our study is the first to show that whole-body vibration may be just as effective as exercise at combating some of the negative consequences of obesity and diabetes.
“These results are encouraging.
“However, because our study was conducted in mice, this idea needs to be rigorously tested in humans to see if the results would be applicable to people.”
The research did not examine differences in heart and lung health.
The findings were published in the Endocrine Society's journal Endocrinology.
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