How to Evaluate WBV Equipment

Although there are several commercial-grade and consumer-grade models of Whole Body Vibration equipment on the market, they vary widely in their function and intended applications. Following is a guide to understanding the key variables.
Style for Life exclusively offers mid-frequency, variable-amplitude WBV based on the center fulcrum model. This combination is the safest, most comfortable and most effective vibration suitable for both fitness and geriatric/rehab applications.
In addition, our equipment features:

Variable Options Purpose Comments Frequency(speed of vibration)
The greater the speed, the more force applied to the muscle fibers.

  • High Frequency
    (30-60Hz) Intended for athletic training; too intense for geriatrics and spinal rehab Repeated exposure to high-frequency vibration has been shown to cause spine and joint damage
  • Mid Frequency
    (15- 40 Hz.) Ideal range for both athletic training and geriatrics/spinal rehab Ideal range for both athletic training and geriatrics/spinal rehab

Amplitude
(high-low range of platform motion)
Lower amplitudes apply less force to the muscle fibers; greater amplitudes apply greater force (combined with frequency and body mass). Low Amplitude better for geriatrics and spinal rehab Better for geriatrics and spinal rehab; less effective for fitness/athletics. Variable amplitude delivers best of both worlds.

  • High Amplitude
    Better for fitness/athletic purposes.
    Good for fitness/athletic training; too intense for geriatrics and spinal rehab.
  • Vibration Style
    (direction of motion in the platform)
  • Unidirectional
    Platform is based on a center fulcrum (like a see-saw), creating left/right up/down motion. This pattern allows for the stabilization of the spine and head, due to the left-right, natural tilting action of the pelvis, which resembles walking. Ability to vary amplitude simply by positioning feet closer to the center or the sides of the platform
  • Tri-Planar
    (aka "Vertical") Platform moves in three directions: up/down (vertical), left/right and back/forth. Vertical motion applies another degree of force to the muscle fibers. Many researchers have expressed concerns about spinal compression with vertical vibration. Tri-planar motion creates a "shaking" sensation that causes dizziness and nausea in many users

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