Whilst exposure to vibration is traditionally
regarded as perilous, recent research has focussed on
potential benefits. Here, the physical principles of forced
oscillations are discussed in relation to vibration as an
exercise modality. Acute physiological responses to isolated
tendon and muscle vibration and to whole body
vibration exercise are reviewed, as well as the training
effects upon the musculature, bone mineral density and
posture. Possible applications in sports and medicine are
discussed. Evidence suggests that acute vibration exercise
seems to elicit a specific warm-up effect, and that vibration
training seems to improve muscle power, although the
potential benefits over traditional forms of resistive exercise
are still unclear. Vibration training also seems to
improve balance in sub-populations prone to fall, such as
frail elderly people. Moreover, literature suggests that
vibration is beneficial to reduce chronic lower back pain
and other types of pain. Other future indications are
perceivable