3 ways elders benefit from using vibrating machines

When you say vibrating machine, the first thing that comes into one’s mind is a platform that vibrates and helps one lose weight, right? Well, vibrating machines are not designed for people who want to drop pounds – or not only for them, as weight loss isn’t the main benefit these fitness devices offer.

A vibrating platform sends energy waves through your body, and depending on your position on the moving surface, these energy waves are absorbed by different muscles. The intensity of workouts can vary depending on the used frequency and on how you position the feet on the platform, and all these factors can influence the final results you get from working on this fitness device.

So a vibration machine is not for overweight people only. In fact, athletes, fitness enthusiasts, young people trying to get more active, as well as elders and people following rehabilitation programs, can all benefit from such a machine. And we’ll start by discussing three excellent effects a whole body vibration platform can have on an elder’s body.

1. Vibrating machines improve circulation

As we age, our bodies get tired, and our heart does the same, so circulation problems are quite frequent in elders. Besides causing them fatigue, cold extremities and problems with body temperature regulation, poor circulation can lead to more serious health issues, such as vascular disease or leg ulcers.

The overall health state sometimes prevents elders from doing classical cardio or strength exercises, but this doesn’t mean they can’t take care of their circulatory system and prevent the risks associated with poor circulation. Whole body vibration therapy has been proven to improve blood flow and to relieve pain, discomfort and swelling caused by an impaired blood and lymph circulation.

2. Working on a vibrating machine improves joints health

Another common health problem in elders is the poor lubrication of joints, which leads to stiffness and pain, and reduces their overall flexibility. With painful joints, it’s harder to exercise, and this is another reason why elders prefer adopting a more sedentary lifestyle. But just like poor circulation, the limited flexibility of joints can also be solved through whole body vibration.

This form of therapy sends vibrations which are absorbed by muscles and joints. As the energy reaches the joint capsule, the production of synovial fluid increases and the bone surfaces forming the articulation are better lubricated. This means a higher range of motion, an improved flexibility and a lower risk of joint pain while moving and exercising. 

3. WBV improves muscular stability

A third very important benefit of vibrating machines for elders is the ability of WBV training to improve the muscle tone and strength, not only in movement muscles but also in posture muscles. This is especially useful for improving the body posture and balance, for reducing the risk of spinal deformities, for restoring normal gait and preventing pain caused by misaligned joints.

So not only does WBV improve one’s physical appearance, but it also improves the functioning of muscles, joints and cardiovascular system. All these benefits can significantly improve the quality of life in elders, and this is a good enough reason for people aged 60+ to try exercising on a vibrating machine at least 3 times a week.