Resistance training interventions aimed at increasing lower-body power and rates of force development have produced varying results. Recent studies have suggested that whole body vibration may elicit an acute post-activation response, leading to improvements in power and force development. This study was done to see the potential of using of WBV between sets of resistance training rather than during training itself. By using WBV between sets it may lead to increased recruitment and synchronization of high-threshold motor units, minimize fatigue potential, and facilitate the chronic adaptation to resistance exercise.
For this study, thirty recreationally resistance trained men aged 18-30 were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: resistance training only, resistance plus whole-body vibration, or active control. An isometric squat test was performed prior to and following a 6-week Smith machine squat program. Whole Body Vibration was applied180 seconds before the first work set and intermittently within a 240 second interest rest period. Subjects were instructed to assume a quarter squat position with their feet directly under their center of mass.
A significant trial effect was seen when expressed as a relative percentage of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). No significant differences were seen for any other force variables from the onset of contraction to MVC between weeks 1 and 7. The data suggest that there was a significant benefit afforded by adding WBV to a short-term resistance training protocol with regard to “explosive” strength expression.
The addition of vibration prior to and between sets of resistance exercise may be a viable alternative to vibration applied during resistance exercise when trying to improve “explosive” isometric strength.
