Whole Body Vibration and External Load Exercise Training on Cardiovascular and Autonomic Function in Obese Individuals

The unloaded-WBVT intervention consists of four leg exercises performed dynamically over a vibrating platform 3 times/week for 6 weeks. Dynamic movements were performed with controlled movements starting from an upright position into a 90 and 120 degree knee angle, wide-stance squat, and maximal heel elevation. The training volume increased progressively by increasing the intensity of the vibration (30-35 Hz; low-high amplitude), duration of exercise (30-60 sec), number of sets per exercise (2-8), and total during of training session, while decreasing the rest periods (60-30 sec).

The loaded-WBVT intervention consists of four leg exercises performed dynamically over a vibrating platform 3 times/week for 6 weeks. Importantly, an external load was applied to a weight vest to account for the necessary weight to perform a specific number of repetitions (progressed from 15-8 repetitions maximum during the 6 weeks). Dynamic movements were performed with controlled movements starting from an upright position into a 90 and 120 degree knee angle, wide-stance squat, and maximal heel elevation. The training volume increased progressively by increasing the intensity of the vibration (30-35 Hz; low-high amplitude), duration of exercise (30-60 sec), number of sets per exercise (2-8), and total during of training session, while decreasing the rest periods (60-30 sec).