FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Click on the frequently asked questions below to view our answers.

Is vibration training a new phenomenon in the fitness and rehabilitation world?

Vibration has been used as an exercise and therapeutic tool since the late 1800s. The research of this technology really began in the late 70’s with the development of a vibration system by one of Russia’s key sports scientists Dr. Vladimir Nazarov. He was an active sportsman, a member of the Soviet gymnastics team and occupied a chair for sports biomechanics at the State College in Minsk. He first introduced this technology to competitive sports, ballet and medicine in the former USSR. The Russian Space Program is currently using the technology with their astronauts suffering from considerable bone loss due to weightlessness. In addition, the European Space Agency and NASA are actively using vibration in ongoing studies for the maintenance of muscle strength, mass and bone density. Since then, and most recently, research into the benefits of segmental and whole body vibration (WBV) has proliferated. Since most whole body vibration systems were developed in Europe, most of the peer reviewed publications have come from Europe. At present there are nearly 100 articles dealing with the effects of and related benefits of whole body vibration.

How does whole body vibration affect the body?

Our platform vibrates in a “teeter-totter” fashion. This produces a corresponding teeter-totter motion at the pelvis resulting in two (2) key actions: one, it simulates the natural, locomotor crossover pattern so common in rehab, and second, it requires active patient participation in postural stabilization. The vibrations activate the involuntary muscle stretch reflex (IMSR). We know that when a doctor taps your patella tendon with a little hammer, there is around 20-25 ms afferent and 20-25 ms efferent response for a total reflex response time of some 40-50 ms. This 40-50 ms circuit corresponds to around 25-27 Hz as a frequency. When exercised at this frequency, the IMSR is activated to the tune of around 1,500 contract/relax cycles per minute. The effects on the circulatory system are enhanced due to the rapid 1,500 contract/relax cycles per minute induced by the IMSR. A strong muscle pumping action is responsible for moving a great deal of fresh oxygenated blood to the working muscles, while flushing out all lactic acid and metabolic waste products.

What is the vibration pattern of the VibraFlex®? Is it patented?

The VibraFlex® is the only internationally patented, vibration device that functions in the specific one-directional, oscillating pattern based on the concept of a center fulcrum and an alternating right/left, up and down motion. The motion is similar to a teeter-totter.

How does that pattern affect my workout or therapy?

The VibraFlex® is the only vibration device that provides for the application of the natural, locomoter, crossover pattern, which is the basis for all functional ambulatory activities, such as walking and running. The result is a more functional workout or therapy session.

What are the advantages to the VibraFlex® vibration pattern?

Simulates the natural locomotor, crossover pattern;
Provides for improved neuromuscular communication;
Provides for better stabilization of the head and spine, resulting in less vibration;
Provides for increased use of the postural muscles;
Properly re-wires the neural pathways;
Provides for larger amplitudes and forces resulting in greater work done, per unit of time

What is the amplitude through which the platform applies force?

The VibraFlex® provides the greatest acceleration and amplitude available for a vibration device. At either end of the platform, there is a displacement of 10.4mm, from lowest to highest point. As a result, the user can expect greater and quicker results from their sessions. (see specifications for displacement and amplitude of VibraFlex® models)

What is the acceleration of the platform as force is applied?

Acceleration is a function of frequency, therefore, the higher the frequency, the greater the acceleration. At the highest frequency of 30 Hz, the VibraFlex® platform can accelerate at 18 times gravity. Another way to state this is 18 times your body weight. Very effective gains, in strength and power, result from this training. (see specifications for VibraFlex® models)

What does 25 Hz really mean?

Hertz is a unit of frequency, equivalent to cycle per second. Depending on your frequency (i.e. VibraFlex®: 25Hz) the targeted muscles are given 25 impulses per second, causing these muscles to contract and relax by natural reflex, 25 times per second.

Can we provide published research done on our system?

The Galileo® vibration technology was used for the majority of the original research done in the field of whole body vibration training. The VibraFlex was designed using that same Galileo® vibration technology. A lengthy and substantive bibliography is available on our website. Others may point to the vibration literature, however, results from one system cannot be implied to another. Since the parameters of vibration can differ, the research must have been done on the system under evaluation.

Do we have appropriate Health Canada classification? Are our marketing claims consistent with that classification?

We are diligent when making claims regarding the technology and communicate only those claims that are supported by science.

VibraFlex and Galileo devices are licensed as Class II Medical Devices by Health Canada.

Can anyone use the VibraFlex®?

Before starting any exercise program, it is important that you consult your family physician. The VibraFlex® should not be operated on a person who is pregnant or has any of the following conditions:

Acute Inflammations in the pelvis and/or the lower extremities
Acute Discopathy
Acute Hernia
Acute Inflammation in the musculoskeletal system
Acute Migraine
Acute Tendiopathy in the trained body regions
Acute Thrombosis
After fresh surgery
Bone Tumors (Osteosarcoma of a long bone)
Epilepsy
Fresh Fracture in the trained body regions
Implants in the trained body regions
Gallstones, Bladder or Kidney Stones
Neoplastic disease of the spine (i.e., multiple myeloma and invasion of the spine, metastasis to the spine, osteosarcoma of a long bone, etc)
Open wounds in the trained body region
Pregnancy
Rheumatoid Arthritis & Arthropathy
Unsupervised children

Does the VibraFlex have different models?

Yes, we have a large model for Sport Performance (VibraFlex® 600) and mid-size models (VibraFlex® 550 and VibraFlex® 450), which are more economical, and all have the optional programmable panel.

In addition, we have added the VibraFlex 450S with remote control for those locations that want a mid-size model without need for a tower.

Our non-commercial units, VibraFlex® Home Edition and Home Edition II utilizes the same patented technology. We also carry the Mini-VibraFlex® series for upper body vibration training (Mini-VibraFlex® & Mini-VibraFlex® plus).

For the hospital and medical setting we have the Galileo® Tilt Table which provides a table with incline from 0 ? 90 degrees for both adults and children. And finally, we have the Leonardo Ground Reaction Plate which can be used to measure power.

See individual products for additional information.

What is the appropriate setting for first time users?

We provide various tools that provide the first time user with a smart and effective approach to whole body vibration. A basic start up protocol:

Foot Position 1 @ 10Hz for 30sec
Foot Position 1 @ 15Hz for 30sec
Step-off the VibraFlex and rest for 1 minute (how do you feel?)
Foot Position 1 @ 15Hz for 30sec
Foot Position 1 @ 20Hz for 30sec
Step-off the VibraFlex® and rest for 1 minute (how do you feel?)

What is the appropriate setting for beginner to advanced?

It is most important that the user be acclimated slowly. Beginners should stay at the lower frequencies, i.e. 5-15 Hz. Once comfortable with the VibraFlex®, the frequencies can be increased to the optimal 25-27 Hz frequency. At this time, the user can increase their duration, or time of the VibraFlex®. Advanced users, such as athletes, can increase the strength training effects by adding additional weight, in the form of a weight vest, or dumbbells.

How often should I use the VibraFlex®?

Training sessions of only 2-3 minutes, three times a week produce measurable results.

What is the optimal frequency range?

25-27 Hz

How can I increase the intensity of my workout?

To increase the intensity of your workout, adjust your amplitude and acceleration. The greater the acceleration and the larger the amplitude, the more work is done by the user. To vary the amplitude, simply widen your stance anywhere from foot position 0 to foot position 4. To vary the acceleration, simply increase your frequency range anywhere from 0-30Hz. This will increase the number of impulses per second, causing the muscles to contract and relax by natural reflex at a higher rate. Weight can be added to further increase the workout.

How can I further develop power for my patients or athletes?

Power is directly related to the ability of the individual to move their mass in response to their immediate need. For the elderly patient, it is the ability to react and move quickly to avoid a fall. For the elite athlete, it is to reach the finish line first by powering out of the blocks at the start. In either case, we must focus on the development of power.

Power is developed by the increased muscle fiber recruitment as a result of the vibration device evoking the involuntary muscle stretch reflex. Through neurological means, nearly all the muscle fibers in the body of the muscle are fired/contracted resulting in the development of new neuromuscular pathways to fibers not normally trained. The individual now has a greater number of muscle fibers to recruit when needed.

To further develop power, the user can use additional weights such as dumbbells and/or weight vest to alter his/her mass.

Can I change my frequency levels during my vibration training program?

Yes, you may program your vibration training session and change the level of frequency at any time during your exercise program.

Does the upper body undergo training while exercising on the VibraFlex® whole body vibration system?

Yes, the whole body undergoes vibration training. Various positions from our VibraFlex® Challenge exercise poster target certain muscle groups. When performing a certain position, the vibrations are concentrated on the targeted muscle groups, but also vibrate in nearby muscles, joints and tendons. However, to achieve optimal benefits of vibration in the upper body (neck, shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand), we suggest training with the Mini-VibraFlex®. The Mini-VibraFlex® was tested with excellent results in sports and fitness centers, tennis and golf clubs, and physical therapy.

What are the major injuries trainers see in their practices/teams?

Most sports injuries typically are of the ankle, knee, and shoulder. This is hardly the full gamut as nearly every joint is susceptible to injury, either traumatic or from overuse.

Why use whole body vibration to treat the injury?

WBV is an invaluable tool in treating the injury as there are indications tied to protocols that can improve limitations in nearly every objective measurement. These include pain, swelling, ROM, stability, endurance, strength, power, and quality of movement pattern.

How does it help in speeding recovery and healing?

The primary effect of WBV that improves recovery time and healing is the increase in blood flow that is generated. As we gain hundreds of muscle contractions followed by relaxations using our protocols, we gain the squeezing and relaxation of the blood vessels that traverse all of the target musculature. This milking effect of the vasculature can be achieved through other modalities such as intermittent compression or retrograde massage, but not nearly as fast or reliably. This increase in blood flow to the sub-acute or chronic staged injuries will courier valuable nutrition to improve the remodeling phase of an injury as well as fuel muscle cell metabolism. There is also likely a yet-to-be-determined mechanism that WBV activates at the cellular level. Much like Shockwave (high-energy ultrasound) and Cold Laser therapies, there is a metabolic "jumpstart" that WBV seems to generate at the cellular level. These modalities have amazing literature that show efficacy, but the deeper mechanism has yet to be determined. WBV is suspected to be in the same boat, but there is no research to support this yet.

When and, most importantly, how do we use whole body vibration?

Perhaps the best way to answer when to use WBV is to answer when NOT to use it. We must respect WBV much like other thermal modalities and not use it in fresh acute injuries. 72 hours from onset is a fair timetable before even considering usage. The increase in blood flow can add to the fluid of Inflammatory Phase and prolong its time frame. Beyond this stage of an injury, we likely should also consider Weight Bearing status of our individual. We should always follow a physician's weight bearing orders, but we can still use WBV within these parameters. Beyond these or the medical conditions (see can anyone use the VibraFlex®), we can use WBV with expansive clinical indications. The "how" of WBV includes weight bearing positions of the arms and legs for the VibraFlex® only limited by your own creativity to the movement pattern you choose to challenge. The Mini-VibraFlex® allows you to challenge your open-chain upper extremity motions. How we manipulate the time and frequency allows us to treat as a warm-up, cool down, lactic acid flush, strengthening modality, power modality, bone density improvement modality, hormonal profile modality, remodeling or wound care modality, among others.

Sprain/'Strain of a peripheral joint

    1. Clear the 48-72 hours in the acute inflammatory phase

Don't make matters worse. Thermal modalities, for all of their value, can also be very powerful in negative ways if used poorly.

    2. Establish Weight Bearing Status

Research has shown quicker weight bearing to improve healing times. We must however bear weight with a great movement pattern, or we run the risk of creating imbalances that will cause problems later on. We can only use great clinical judgment and physician direction as to how aggressive we want our patient or client to weight bear. If they weight bear on the floor at any percentage, that same percentage is appropriate for WBV. ROM limitations in the open-chain using the Mini apply with the same discretion.

3.   Address the problem(s)

Choose what measurement/problem you want to use WBV for, and use the appropriate protocol.

4.   Supplement or improve training

Incorporate this chronological progression using the appropriate protocols (time, frequency) in accordance with or without a superimposed movement on top of the reflexive contraction WBV creates. Depending on the exercise, movement pattern, and of course the injury, any exercise where any part of the body is in contact with the floor or table is appropriate to be in contact with the platform of the VibraFlex®.

---Develop great movement pattern
---Train Stability
---Train Endurance
---Train Strength
---Train Power/Agility

What is the ChipCard package?

The programmable chip card reader comes with ten (10) cards and acts as your own virtual trainer. Simply program an exercise session specifically tailored to your client's needs onto a card. You set the parameters: time, frequency and amplitude. Your client simply follows the exercise program by inserting the card into the slot located on the control panel. Make the VibraFlex® work for your business by billing time using this brand new feature.

What is included with the ChipCard package?

1 CD containing the ChipCard Editor software and all necessary hardware drivers for the ChipCard Reader module.
1 ChipCard Reader hardware SCR 3311
1 ChipCard Editor User Manual
10 blank ChipCards

Can I purchase a VibraFlex® first and then add the ChipCard package?

Yes, the control panels can easily be swapped.

After exercising on the VibraFlex® my legs and calves feel itchy and have reddened. Is this normal?

Users commonly report itching erythema, due to enhanced blood flow, following the use of the VibraFlex® exercise system. This effect usually subsides in minutes, as blood flow returns to normal. This effect is a positive benefit of the VibraFlex® as circulation to the lower extremities is improved.

Can I use the VibraFlex® as a warm up and/or cool down?

Yes, by adjusting the amplitude and frequency, you can accommodate the level of vibration training to your needs. Whether training with the VibraFlex® or simply using it to warm up and/or cool down, the vibrations of the VibraFlex® warm up the muscles as they contract and relax due to natural reflex. There is an increase in blood circulation and oxygenation flushing out the metabolic waste products of ammonia & lactic acid. The VibraFlex® is your personal trainer. You program it according to your needs.

What are the benefits of training on the VibraFlex®?

The message is quite simple regarding the benefits of the VibraFlex® – four KEY benefits as follows:

Increase in Strength and Power During a VibraFlex® session, the muscle fibers are firing neurologically, not voluntarily as they do during a normal training or rehabilitation session. As a result, users develop neuromuscular pathways to muscle fibers not normally reached during traditional training. Regular use of the VibraFlex® will groove these pathways allowing for the recruitment of these additional muscle fibres when needed. In addition, the consistent and functional firing of the muscle fibers during a VibraFlex® session has been shown to improve both inter and intra neuromuscular communication. This improved communication between agonist and antagonist muscle groups allows for improved neuromuscular coordination enhancing performance and the potential for reduced injuries. Additional strength benefits can be achieved by wearing weight vests, holding dumbbells, etc. during the VibraFlex® session. With consistent use of the VibraFlex®, muscle strength and tone results.

Stronger muscles usually means stronger bones and helps fight osteoporosis through exercise.
Improves postural reflexes.
Improves balance and coordination.
Helps develop explosive power essential in sports such as baseball, basketball, football or hockey.
Exercises and/or redevelops the postural muscles, joints, and reflexes after injury or disease.
Exercises the perineal muscles of patients with incontinence.

Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility With the high muscle contraction rate of 1,500 contractions per minute with a VibraFlex® session, it becomes difficult for the connective tissue or fascia to retain its hold on the fibers. This “release of connective tissue” allows the fibers to elongate resulting in a greater range of motion and flexibility. This will result in enhanced performance, reduce the chance of injuries, or speed rehabilitation for the user.

Increases flexibility and range of motion essential in sports such as golf, tennis, baseball or hockey.
Improves mobility in an inactivity senior population enhancing their quality of life.
Reduces the pain and disability associated with osteoarthritis.

Enhanced Circulation The effects on the circulatory system are enhanced through a VibraFlex® session due to the rapid 1,500 contract/relax cycles per minute induced by the involuntary muscle stretch reflex. A strong “muscle pumping” action is responsible for moving a great deal of fresh oxygenated blood to the working muscles, while flushing out lactic acid and metabolic waste products. This “muscle pumping” action is a strong factor in the movement of fluids throughout the vascular and lymphatic systems enhancing circulation.
Improves blood flow warming/cooling the muscle before or after a game or rehabilitation.
Improves leg circulation for people with diabetes.
Brings in nutriented and oxygenated blood to injured areas to speed recovery by aiding in the healing process.

Improved Hormone Profile Due to accelerated muscle fiber activity, in 30-60 seconds on the VibraFlex® users are able kick up levels of testosterone and human growth hormone, and reduce levels of cortisol. Vibration training:

Raises testosterone levels (7%) which allows fast-twitch white muscle fibers to fully recover at a quicker rate.
Raises growth hormone level (361%) essential to repairing and regenerating tissue.
Lowers cortisol level (32%) which helps minimize the effects of stress.

What are the differences between the VibraFlex® and your competitors?

We have independent research which compares us to our competitors and shows that we are substantially superior. Please review our site for the comparative study, which substantiates our claims. One way to try to understand the differences in the Vibration Platforms is to compare them to an exercise rep scheme. For example, you will get a different effect on your body if you do 8-12 reps rather than doing 50 reps. Reps and weight choice is critical for your improvement and we all rely on performance research to inform us which reps, loads, and intensities are the most effective. The VibraFlex® frequency (reps) and displacement (weight) is the most effective exactly as 8-12 reps is superior than 50 reps for strength training. Our competitors use higher frequencies, assuming more is better but the research clearly shows us to be the most effective.

The VibraFlex® is based entirely on the physiology of the stretch reflex. Which is why the majority of strong research has been done on our platform series (Gallieo®). The research shows the EMG firing highest at about 20-27Hz. We use 0-30Hz. Our competitors use at high as 50Hz.

Who are some of the VibraFlex® users?

Some of our high profile users are The Miami Heat, The Chicago White Sox, Duke Basketball, West Virginia Football, and The Rusk Research Institute in NYC, Yale, and The St. Louis Blues; we have 32 total teams. .As well as leading Trainers, Gunnar Peterson, Juan Carlos Santana, Kathy Smith, Mike Boyle & Mark Jenkins. Please note that our users have purchased our unit. Some of our competitors have given away their unit to help add credibility to their technology. We are proud to say that our users have bought our equipment after serious research and thought on what is the best Vibration science. For a list of users, see our reference list.

Does the VibraFlex® have different models?

Yes, we have a large model for Sport Performance (VibraFlex® 600) and mid-size models (VibraFlex® 550 and VibraFlex® 450), which are more economical, and all have programmable panels. Our non-commercial units, VibraFlex® Home Edition, VibraFlex® Home Edition II, and VibraFlex® Home Edition II Plus utilizes the same patented technology. We also carry the Mini-VibraFlex® series for upper body vibration training (Mini-VibraFlex® & Mini-VibraFlex® plus). For the hospital and medical setting we have the Galileo® Tilt Table which provides a table with incline from 0 – 90 degrees for both adults and children. And finally, we have the Leonardo Ground Reaction Plate which can be used to measure power. See individual products for additional information.

What are the maximum force and maximum acceleration during VibraFlex® training?

Unfortunately, in public discussion the device internal forces and the forces applied to the user by the device are often confused. The device internal forces are substantial higher than the forces transmitted to the user during VibraFlex® Vibration Training.

The maximum forces transmitted to the user during VibraFlex® Training are about +30% of the Body Weight (assuming training without extra weight).

The following graph shows the typical maximum forces per leg during VibraFlex® (Galileo) Training and those during every day motions.   The results prove how low the maximum forces in fact are during VibraFlex Training compared to every day motions like walking, getting up from a chair, stair climbing, jumping on one leg and jumping on both legs (The maximum forces are expressed as multiples of the body weight - 1g is equivalent to one times the body weight).

The following graph shows the typical maximum accelerations during VibraFlex® Training at head, hip and knees compared to those during the same every day motions as listed above.

Measurement Results in Detail (time resolved):
The graphs listed below show the sum of maximum forces during VibraFlex® Training (sum of the ground reaction forces of the left and right leg); A value of 100% is equivalent to the bodyweight.   Hence, standing still results in a force on both legs equivalent to the Bodyweight - for a person with a weight of 80kg, this would result in a force of roughly 800N.

• Maximum Forces during VibraFlex® (Galileo® )Training:   ca. 130% of Body Weight

• Maximum Forces during Walking: ca. 150% of Body Weight

• Maximum Forces when Rising from a Chair: ca. 190% of Body Weight

• Maximum Forces when Jumping on one Leg: ca. 320% of Body Weight

• Maximum Forces when jumping on both Legs: ca. 600% of Body Weight

The following Graph shows the Measurement Results in direct comparison:

How does the VibraFlex® compare to vertical platforms?

The side-alternating up-down-function of the VibraFlex® platform simulates human gait, which makes VibraFlex® Training a 100% physiological training method unlike training platforms with a pure vertical up-an-down function.

Only the patented motion of the VibraFlex® Training device enables a side alternating stimulation of the tilt of the pelvic which stimulates the spine in a physiologically correct manner like during human gait - unlike a purely vertically moving platform which constantly compresses the spine.
Plus, the side-alternating movement of VibraFlex® reaches all the up into the spinal and abdominal muscle groups and this is not feasible with purely vertically moving training platform.

One main aim during human movement is to keep the head in a still and upright position, as the human equilibrium and visual system require motionlessness to function properly. VibraFlex® patented architecture assures that no significant vibration is transferred to the head, as VibraFlex® platform simply imitates human gait where the body is easily able to maintain the upper body and head in a still position.

Will VibraFlex® Training help with fall prevention and is it appropriate for the elderly?

VibraFlex® Training provides the same stimuli as in human gait which not only enhances basic muscle function but also muscular interaction, which results in an increase in muscle power. Especially in the elderly, muscle power is the key factor when it comes to fall prevention - and falls are the main reason for hip and femur fractures. VibraFlex® Training puts very low stress on the cardiovascular system which makes it perfectly suitable for elderly patients.

Does higher amplitude cause more vibration to the head during VibraFlex® training?

Only VibraFlex® employs the patented, side-alternating seesaw movement. This physiological movement elicits a training effect for the trunk muscles just like in gait, walking or running. The amplitude and thus the forces transmitted into the body via the feet are easily selectable by altering the foot position on VibraFlex® footplate. Even at high training frequencies, no significant vibration is transferred to the head, as this is inhibited by the pelvis and trunk muscles just like in gait.

Which muscles are affected by VibraFlex® training?

VibraFlex® Training always affects all muscles of the legs up into the trunk. However, training emphasis may be put on certain muscle groups by body posture, joint angles, and body stiffness.

The more upright the body posture and the stiffer the legs during VibraFlex® Training, the more the gluteus, back, and abdominal muscles are affected. The less stiff the legs, the more the training effect concentrates into the lower limbs.

Are "vibrations" harmful?

It is often said that vibrations, as in truck driving and in jackhammer work, are harmful to the human body. However, these kinds of vibrations are not at all comparable with the vibration of the VibraFlex®. VibraFlex® differs in frequency, amplitude, and oscillation pattern and in how the force is transmitted into the human body. For example, when sitting in a vehicle, forces are directly transferred into the spine, which is not the case with VibraFlex® Training.

The patented movement of the VibraFlex® training platform is a seesaw movement rather than a simultaneous up-and-down of the right and left side. This makes the VibraFlex® movement a partial circular movement affecting the left and right body part alternately affecting flexor and tensor muscles.

VibraFlex® pattern is adopted from human gait - right and left legs as well as the trunk muscles are always activated alternately - tensor/flexor action.

Compared with truck driving and work with heavy tools, there are no harmful high frequencies applied in VibraFlex® Training. VibraFlex® elaborate mechanical construction guarantees a constant, pure sinusoidal force transmission into the body, whereas only the set frequency and amplitude (chosen by the foot position) affect the body. VibraFlex® frequencies are derived from muscle physiology and VibraFlex® Training is individually adjustable via frequency and amplitude settings.

What is a stretch reflex?

Stretch reflexes are initiated within the muscle when it is tensed - i.e. in squatting or standing position - and simultaneously stretched within a very short time (typ. around 50ms). The stretch reflex is a quick muscle contraction of the stretched muscle and occurs autonomously via the spinal cord. A commonly known example is the patellar tendon reflex when the doctor slightly pounds below the kneecap with his hammer and consequently the leg straightens.

How can VibraFlex® training stimulation reach into the trunk muscles?

During the side-alternating movement of the VibraFlex® platform, forces are transmitted into the body via the feet and legs. Due to the side-alternation, the position of the pelvis is altered - like during gait - and simultaneously stabilized with back and abdominal muscles. This is the reason why the stimulation of VibraFlex® Training reaches up into the trunk muscles unlike a simple vertical up-and-down movement.

How is the right frequency selected?

The training frequency directly impacts the effect of VibraFlex® Training and must be chosen with respect to the training target. Blood circulation, vascularisation and micro circulation however, increases significantly within the trained body parts - independently from training frequency - which accelerates healing processes and relieves circulatory disorders.

Low Frequencies (10 to 20 Hertz)
Low frequencies between 10 and 20 Hertz (oscillations per second) serve basic muscle function training.

The time span between two reflex cycles is approx. 67 milliseconds (thousandths of a second) at a frequency of 15 Hertz. This time span between two contraction cycles - induced by the stretch reflex - is long enough for the muscle to completely relax. The average physiological time for a complete contraction-/relaxation cycle is approximately 50 milliseconds. Performing complete contraction-/relaxation cycles is very important when the basic functions of a muscle fail such as the contraction-/relaxation ability as well as intra- and inter-muscular co-ordination.

Thanks to the great repetition numbers with VibraFlex® Training (3 minutes of VibraFlex® Training at 18 Hertz: 3240 cycles!) the improvement and recovery of muscle function is reached within a fraction of conventional training time.

Another crucial factor for the success of VibraFlex® Training is that muscle activity is not deliberately controlled but reflex-based, which assures that the closed-loop-systems consisting of muscle/tendon/sinew/cartilage/nerves may recover and optimize autonomously.

VibraFlex® Training at low frequencies (below 20 Hertz) serves the following training targets:
•    recovery and enhancement of muscle function, especially after immobilization and injuries

•    relaxation of tense muscles

•    muscle training for incomplete paraplegics and neuronal muscle diseases

•    stress incontinence due to functional disorder

•    unspecific back pain

•    muscular imbalance

High frequencies (20 to 30 Hertz)
High frequencies between 20 and 30 Hertz are applied to increase muscle power.

When high frequencies are applied, muscle physiology restricts the complete relaxation of the muscle within the short time between two cycles. Moreover, the muscle is forced to re-contract right when it is about to relax or already partially relaxed.

The higher muscle tone at high frequencies enhances intra- and inter-muscular co-ordination within these very short time spans (at 30 Hertz: 33 milliseconds) which results in an increase in muscle power.

Even short immobilization periods of a few weeks in healthy people, (i.e. after an accident) causes massive local muscle and bone loss as the forces applied to the bone by the muscle dictate the bone's shape, architecture and mass. Caused by the greater forces during VibraFlex® Training at higher frequencies, muscle and therefore also bone, is re-established very quickly to pre-immobilization state.

VibraFlex® Training with high frequencies (20 to 30 Hertz) serves the following training targets:
•    Increase in muscle power

•    Re-establishment of pre-trauma muscle force after immobilization periods (plus indirect effect on bone recovery)

Frequencies below 10 Hertz
At frequencies below 10 Hertz the movements of the Galileo training platform are not fast enough to provoke stretch reflexes, which makes frequencies below 10 Hertz rather suitable for "warm-up and cool-down".

Can VibraFlex® Training help to rebuild bones and muscle?

Muscle and Bone are very closely linked.

The principle of bone development is that different sorts of cells work together. Bone is a dynamic tissue that is constantly being reshaped by osteoblasts, which build bone, and osteoclasts which resorb (breakdown) bone. (Osteoblast cells tend to decrease as individuals become elderly.)

The process is regulated by the strength of the muscles which mould the shape of the bones. No stable bones can be formed without sufficient movement. The more active and/or sporty a person is, the more the muscles stimulate bone growth. Osteoblasts add external matter so that the diameter of the bone increases and therefore becomes thicker and stronger.

When individuals are wheel chair bound or suffer from inactivity due to disease or illness, the system is not used. Due to the lack of movement, the muscle begins to atrophy and the bones are not used enough. This sends a signal to the osteoclasts to remove bone material. It will be taken away from the inside of the bone.

This cooperation between muscle and bone makes biological sense. For this reason, bone and muscles are a functional unit. In nature, the functions that are used are built up, are strengthened. The functions that are not used are metabolized because they are not necessary.

Bone does adapt during our lifetime based on the maximum strain caused by forces which are applied during every day living. Astonishingly, these forces are not mainly caused by external influences but are caused by the muscle.

If the stress on the bone is above a certain threshold level, this results in a slight bone growth on the outside. This is due to the need for higher stability (the ability to withstand higher forces with less deformation) of the bone. If the stress on the bone is less than a certain threshold level, then bone is resorbed from the inside. This is due to the bones requirement for less stability. This way the primary function of the bone is optimized during an individual’s lifetime. However, resorption and especially formation (growth) of bone is a matter of several months and even years.

To prevent or even to compensate for bone resorption due to disuse , the stress on the bones has to be above the lower threshold level during every day living. VibraFlex® Training can be used to regain muscle power, and in some cases muscle force, and hence stimulate bone adoption. VibraFlex® training can be implemented in a fraction of the time of conventional training methods and implemented with individuals who have reduced mobility and have no ability to participate in conventional training methods.