Vibration Training Improves Strength in Stroke Survivors
Study shows improvement in leg muscle strength and bone retention.
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Fitness professionals who incorporate vibration training into their programs will be interested to learn that new research substantiates its value for those coping with stroke. Increasing muscle strength and preserving bone density are important priorities for stroke survivors, as many clinical exercise specialists can attest.
Chinese researchers from Hong Kong Polytechnic University conducted a study with 84 male and female stroke survivors ages 53–65. Participants trained with whole-body vibration three times a week for 8 weeks at either 20 or 30 hertz (cycles per second). Data analysis showed that both protocols improved muscle strength and bone retention; however, the 30-hertz protocol was more effective in developing paretic eccentric leg strength.
The study is available in Scientific Reports (2021; 11 [121]).
Shirley Eichenberger-Archer, JD, MA
Shirley Archer, JD, MA, is an internationally acknowledged integrative health and mindfulness specialist, best-selling author of 16 fitness and wellness books translated into multiple languages and sold worldwide, award-winning health journalist, contributing editor to Fitness Journal, media spokesperson, and IDEA's 2008 Fitness Instructor of the Year. She's a 25-year industry veteran and former health and fitness educator at the Stanford Prevention Research Center, who has served on multiple industry committees and co-authored trade books and manuals for ACE, ACSM and YMCA of the USA. She has appeared on TV worldwide and was a featured trainer on America's Next Top Model.
