[Whole-body vibration training: fact or fiction?]

Vibration platforms are a new type of fitness equipment promoted for multiples effortless benefits, encompassing muscle strengthening to cosmetic effects, in a minimum of time. Beyond its trendy aspects, positive effects have been observed on strength, body balance and bone mineral density in aged home residents or post-menopausal women. Only minimal or no effects have been found in young sedentaries or athletes. The diversity of vibration settings and modes render the establishment of guidelines for their optimal use difficult. Contraindications are multiple but relative. Sports including vibrations might benefit, or for the sake of proprioceptive rehabilitation. Obese and limited-mobility persons are for the time being the most adequate target population for their use.