Research in Sport Medicine and Technology

In this study, the effects of vibration training on physical fitness factors in elderly
females investigated. 40 subjects with age 61/09±6/24 yrs, weight 65/84±11/98
kg, height 156/99±5/06 cm and body mass index 26/64±4/23 kg/m2 voluntary
participated in this study and were divided in vibration (n=16), non-vibration
(n=14) and control (n=10) groups. The vibration group performed exercises on
the device (JET VIB) for 10 days with 35-40Hz frequency, 12 mm amplitude and
eight positions. The non-vibration group performed the same exercises (in
position, set and time) on the turned off device. The control group did not
exercise during the study. Leg and hand strength (dynamometer), flexibility (sit
and reach), balance (standing time on one leg) and body composition (skinfold
with caliper) were measured. Paired sample t test and one way ANOVA used
for data analysis. In within group analysis, vibration group showed significant
increase in right (p=0/02) and left hand strength (p=0/01), leg strength
(p=0/008), Flexibility (p=0/005) and left leg balance (p=0/006). In non vibration
group just significant increase in right hand strength (p=0/01). There was no
significant change in control group. Between group analysis showed, significant
increase in right (p=0/006) and left hand strength (p=0/003), leg strength
(p=0/004) and left leg balance (p=0/01) in vibration group comparison with to
other groups. There was no significant change in right leg balance (p=0/),
Flexibility (p=0/005) and body composition in any of groups. Due to the results
short term vibration training can improve flexibility, strength and balance in
elderly subjects.