Superimposed vibration confers no additional benefit compared with resistance training alone

Abstract

Eighteen participants (22-43 years) were randomly allocated to one of two groups: resistance training combined with vibration (VIB; five males, four females) or resistance training alone (CON; five males, four females). Each participant trained three sessions per week (three sets of 10 seated calf raises against a load, which was increased progressively from 75% of one repetition maximum (1RM) to 90% 1RM for 4 weeks. For the VIB group, a vibratory stimulus (30 Hz, 2.5 mm amplitude) was applied to the soles of the feet by a vibration platform. The two groups did not differ significantly with respect to the total amount of work performed during training. Both groups showed a significant increase in maximum voluntary contraction and 1RM (P<0.01) with training. There were no significant changes in measures that assessed the rate at which force was developed. Countermovement jump height increased for the CON (P<0.01) but not for the VIB group. Comparisons between the groups revealed that they did not differ significantly from one another with respect to any measure of performance, before or following training. It appears that vibration superimposed upon resistance training does not alter or augment the increase in strength induced by resistance training alone.