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Whole Body Vibration: A Valid Alternative Strategy to Exercise?
Roberto Bonanni1, Ida Cariati1, Cristian Romagnoli2
1Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology
|November 22, 2022
Summary
Whole-body vibration (WBV) enhances neuromuscular function, bone density, and physical performance in athletes. Research suggests WBV may also offer cognitive benefits and serve as a complementary training strategy.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Mechanical vibration induces physiological changes impacting neuromuscular function.
- Whole-body vibration (WBV) is linked to increased bone mineral density, muscle mass, and strength.
- WBV may alleviate pain and improve proprioception in conditions like osteoarthritis and lower back pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent scientific evidence on WBV effects and proposed molecular mechanisms.
- To assess WBV's potential as a passive training alternative or supplement to exercise.
Main Methods:
- Narrative literature review.
- Searches conducted in MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases.
Main Results:
- WBV improves physical performance metrics in athletes (strength, agility, flexibility, jump height).
- Evidence suggests WBV benefits extend to cognitive health, potentially preventing age-related disorders.
- Molecular mechanisms of WBV responses overlap with exercise adaptations.
Conclusions:
- WBV offers diverse physiological and potential cognitive benefits.
- Understanding WBV's molecular basis is key for optimizing training protocols.
- WBV presents a viable passive training option, alone or combined with exercise.
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