Deviations in Whole-Body Vibration Training Devices: A Narrative Review

Research regarding whole body vibration training (WBVT) and its use in practice might be hindered by the fact that WBVT devices generate frequencies and/or amplitudes and/or modes of vibration different to preset adjustments. Considering the to date available research results it can be stated, that significant divergences between the preset frequency and the actual applied frequency in WBVT devices used in practice and scientific research must be expected, whereas divergences regarding the mode of vibration are not to be expected. According to the available published literature, no published research results regarding potential divergences of the actually applied amplitude were identified. As a result of divergences of more than 10% it will be difficult to identify the most effective range of frequencies for specific intentions in research. In practice, divergences of more than 10% can cause that assumed effective training parameters for WBVT do not result in an improvement of the pathology of a patient or expected training effects in athletes and healthy people. Accordingly, a cause for the lack of effectiveness of an intervention with WBVT can be an inexact applied frequency. Based on these results it is strongly recommended that user in practice and research should analyse their WBVT devices regarding the applied frequency and mode of vibration. Future research should investigate possible divergences regarding the actually applied amplitude and possible causes for divergences in WBVT devices.