Researchers examine the effects of an 8 week training regime using whole body vibration training on runners to measure its effect.
In several lab sessions at the National Taiwan Normal University in Taipei, Taiwan, researchers wanted to investigate how whole body vibration training, a system relatively new in the health and fitness industry, effects runners. The two main factors being examined were running economy (effectiveness) and power performance.
24 male collegiate athletes were recruited to the study. They were randomly assigned to a placebo group and experimental group, each consisting of 12 subjects. They were all in good health and well trained, averaging 20 years of age.
For 8 weeks, each group performed an identical training session consisting of semi-squats. The experimental group performed them with the vibration training, and the placebo did not. Before and after the experiment measures were taken for the maximal isometric force and rate of force development (power) of the legs. In addition, measures were also taken of running economy using a treadmill test at 3 different speeds.
Results showed that rate of force development (power) and the maximal force increased in the experimental group. There were no changes in the results of the placebo group. Also in the experimental group, running economy at all 3 speeds showed significant improvements.
The outcome of this study shows that vibration training can be useful to improve running economy, power and overall force in runners and in athletes who require speed and endurance.
Source
Chend, C-F, Cheng, K-H, Lee, Y-M, Huang, H-W, Kuo, Y-H, and Lee, H-J. 2012. “Improvement in running economy after 8 weeks of whole-body vibration training.” Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. 26(12): 3349-3357.
