Fjeldstad C, Palmer IJ, Bemben MG, Bemben DA. Whole-body vibration augments resistance training effects on body composition in postmenopausal women. Maturitas, April 20, 2009 (Epub ahead of print).
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Age-related changes in body composition are well-documented with a decrease in lean body mass and a redistribution of body fat generally observed. Resistance training alone has been shown to have positive effects on body composition; however, these benefits may be enhanced by the addition of a vibration stimulus.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of 8 months of resistance training with and without whole-body vibration (WBV) on body composition in sedentary postmenopausal women.
METHODS: Fifty-five women were assigned to resistance only (RG, n=22), vibration plus resistance (VR, n=21) or non-exercising control (CG, n=12) groups. Resistance training (3 sets 10 repetitions 80% strength) was performed using isotonic weight training equipment and whole-body vibration was done with the use of a vibration platform three times per week for 8 months. Total and regional body composition was assessed from the total-body DXA scans at baseline (pre) and after 8 months (post) of training.
RESULTS: In the VR group, total % body fat decreased from pre- to post-time points (p<0.05), whereas the CG group had a significant increase in total % body fat (p<0.05). Both training groups exhibited significant increases in bone-free lean tissue mass for the total body, arm and trunk regions from pre to post (p<0.05). CG did not show any changes in lean tissue.
CONCLUSION: In older women, resistance training alone and with whole-body vibration resulted in positive body composition changes by increasing lean tissue. However, only the combination of resistance training and whole-body vibration was effective for decreasing percent body fat.
Source: Foundation for Chiropractic Education and Research. The Week in Chiropractic, Wednesday, May 5, 2009.
