Stride forth with poles.

Whole-body vibration (WBV) has been suggested to have a beneficial effect on muscle strength. Manufacturers of vibration platforms promote WBV as an effective alternative or complement to resistance training. This study aimed to review systematically the current (August 2005) scientific support for effects of WBV on muscle strength and jump performance. MEDLINE and SPORT DISCUS were searched for the word vibration in combination with strength or training. Twelve articles were included in the final analysis. In four of the five studies that used an adequate design with a control group performing the same exercises as the WBV group, no difference in performance improvement was found between groups, suggesting no or only minor additional effects of WBV as such. Proposed neural mechanisms are discussed.

Exercise↗

PubMed2007

Physical activity and weight management across the lifespan.

This review discusses key findings and recommendations related to the role of physical activity in weight gain prevention, weight loss, and weight-loss maintenance across the lifespan. For weight gain prevention, epidemiological and clinical studies suggest that regular physical activity is critical, with increases above the recommended 30 min daily for health (e.g., to 45 to 60 min daily) potentially desirable for curtailing weight gain. For weight loss, clinical studies suggest that physical activity interventions alone usually produce only modest results. Combining physical activity with dietary interventions increases the chance of success, especially at higher levels of physical activity (e.g., 200 to 300 min or more weekly). For weight-loss maintenance, high levels of physical activity (e.g., 40 to 90 min daily) may be necessary. To manage weight across the lifespan, a comprehensive approach to physical activity is needed supported by public policy interventions that help make physical activity a part of daily life.

Exercise↗