There are numerous types of motions that vibration machines can operate at but the most common are Pivotal /Oscillation, Lineal / Vertical, Tri-planar, and Sonic. All these types of vibration machines essentially tries to do the same thing: induce rapid stretch-reflex and contractions on your muscles to engage them much more rapidly then conventional exercises.

For example, if you pick the best machine from each type of vibration motion and compare them to each other, you will soon realize that there is no one particular type of vibration technology that is more “superior” than others, since there is no one vibration motion that suits everyone. Because each persons tolerance to vibration is different, along with different fitness goals and fitness levels. Buying a $20,000 machine for yourself doesn’t necessary mean its more suited for your body than using a $2000 machine.

Regardless of your purchasing decision, it is more important that you have a solid understanding of the terms used to describe a whole body vibration machine, so that you can compare the machines side by side to make an informed decision. What’s been happening in the industry is that a lot of the brands, big or small, rig their machine’s specification to make the machine appear stronger, faster, better than their competitor (usually bigger, faster, stronger = better, right?). Some of the specs that are posted by these companies are just out right bogus, as it is technically impossible to have such specifications. We will write another post on the bogus specs that manufactures say in another post. For now, lets assume the world is great and everyone, yes, including the manufacturers and their marketing people are perfectly honest.

After considerable use, a whole body vibration machine will be less efficient than it once was. A machine may start requiring more and more current (amps) to drive the motor. Cheaper machines using inferior parts that required 10 amps may require 15 amps 5 or 6 years down the road. This can be prevent by selecting a machine from a reputable manufacturer that uses quality components. Typically, you can expect your machine to run upwards to 5 years without a single issue with continuous usage.

Over time, unless a vibration machine’s motor was designed with low friction, it will develop a higher amount of friction due to mechanical wear and tear. It is quite normal for your machine to sound a little bit noisier after considerable use. Unless it is knocking like crazy, it is nothing major to worry about. Sonic vibration virtually eliminates this problem because they don’t have a motor.

Vibration absorption describes vibration that is either absorbed by you or by the ground. Good quality machines have adjustable feet that allow you level the machine to prevent shaking the floor. Avoid models that don’t have adjustable feet because you will drive your downstairs neighbors crazy! It is also best to set the machine on an area that is hard and flat. Carpet may or may not work because it really depends what kind of carpets you have since some are thicker, lighter, fluffier, etc… Some of our customers have mixed results with some machines shaking uncontrollable even when the feet were all touching the carpet, while others don’t shake at all and performs just like it will on hard floors. If carpet is a must, you can try placing a wood underneath the platform and ensure the feet makes contact.