NancyG,

Contact VersaClimber for specifics on the Exervibe use. Remember, vibration can be used for different purposes such as warmup, circulation, range of motion, etc. in addition to what appears to be your main concern of bone health. Used as a training method I would stick to every other day or twice a week.  So, you could do vibration 2 or 3 days a week and a cardio workout on the inbetween days.  There are many possibilities.  One thing you do not want to do is overuse vibration and in my opinion this is easy to do because people do not seem to be aware of neural fatigue.

John T. Weatherly

Watching the video of Dr Mercola on the machine is scary.  The Powerplate isn’t a strong machine yet Dr Mercola can’t hold the positions that he’s recommending for fitness for elderly people.  He looks like he’s never used a machine even though he’s been selling them for over a year.

But, I’m going to say I would never recommend elderly people try those poses on any machine.

 Instead follow a SAFE, CONTROLLED program – The IVTRB SAFETY PROGRAM  (http://www.vibration-training-advice.com/consumer-guide-and-safety-program/lineal-and-pivotal-safety-programs)

 - The positions are held completely static (not moving) and are very balanced and supported. (even better on a Vibra-Train in a studio as we have side vibrating handlebars used for added support in squats BUT the program is great used with any machine)

NancyG,

I have corresponded with Lloyd for quite a few years now.  His knowledge is vast.  He knows more about the different vibration modalities than anybody I have encountered and I know quite of few researchers and other conditioning specialists.  I have not had the opportunity to use his machines yet as he is in NZ but believe what he says.  Vibration equipment I have used would be Vibraflex and some other platforms along with the Exervibe.  It depends on your goals and needs.  For older people looking for one machine that can do a lot, I agree with Lloyd that Exervibe is  the top choice for a personal purchase.  You can use it for vibration and as a climber.  The VersaClimber by itself is a tremendous piece of equipment but add vibration on top of it like you get with Exervibe and you have a unique tool.  And the equipment VersaClimber makes takes a beating.  It is high quality.

John T. Weatherly

Hi Lloyd,

How often is the maximum amount of times I can got a week, I am a weekly payer at my local studio and want to make full use of it without over doing it. I am also going to start doing weight training 2 times a week, when would be best times to do this

THanks

Casey

Thanks Di and Lloyd your advice is much appreciated.

Hi Laura

Just jumping in ahead of Lloyd here

Yes, some people tense their neck and shoulders which can bring on a headache. Training can elevate blood pressure (tense, unused to exercise, obese). This usually resolves after a few short sessions and using the methods you’ve already tried – eating a full meal or a banana before training and being adequately hydrated. Some people rush into the studio and others who walk a distance to the studio need to sit down and rest before their session.

These are the Steps I Try
A rest before training (and the usual, banana and hydration)
 An aspirin just before the session (if the person is okay with that and it’s not contraindicated by other medication they are taking. Their doctor can advise on this)
 Ensure their position is perfect including head down (not held up). In the squat also make sure they are balanced and not pulling back on the handlebars (water-skiing)
Short time periods – 30 seconds instead of 60 seconds, realising this is not going to give training results but I use it to get the person comfortable with the machine. I also stick with upright poses, with rest between, and leave out the pushup – the 2^nd position (IVTRB Safety Program).

If they still get headache or you think they are really tensing up, I use a therapy pose – sitting them in a chair with their feet on the edge of the machine (put a mat on the machine first). Make sure they know this is not exercise; it’s just to get them used to the feel of the vibration. Do this for 2 sessions, trying just one minute at a time and repeating that a few times.  Add in a few squats when they are ready – session 3 maybe.

I n the end though, vibration training isn’t for everyone

Look at this article : http://www.vibration-training-advice.com/consumer-guide-and-safety-program/articles-41---50/headaches-when-vibration-training-reasons-and-cures

Thank you, Lloyd.  WBV it is. 

And thank you, John.  My husband and I will be spending several days in Orange County next week before we head to Los Angeles.  I will see what I can learn about Exervibe.  Good timing.  Much appreciated. 

NancyG,

I used to consult with VersaClimber which is in Orange County south of LA.  Check out the Exervibe they make.  Dr. Phil Wagner, who runs Sparta Performance Sciences in SF Bay area  and works with many elite athletes including the U of Kansas Athletic Department and the Colorado Rockies, is very happy with the Exervibe.  They are in your area if you are in LA.  Dan Charnitski is the GM.  You can mention I told you about them.

John Weatherly

Thank you, Lloyd.  Helpful answers.  I will use the info you have provided to help me make a decision.  I have pretty good intuition about people as well.

My husband suggested I Google Fitness Expo which I did.  A large one is being held next week in Los Angeles.  Good timing.  Will try to go.

Not sure if this is a fair question, but trying to cover all the bases.  If I could have only one piece of exercise equipment in my home, would I be better off getting a good treadmill or a WBV machine if I want to build or preserve bone and muscle.  From what I have learned here, it seems that I could get the same benefits, except perhaps cardio, in a shorter time using WBV. 

Again, thanks.