Whole body vibration training: An effective workout?

I've seen a few ads for whole body vibration machines that supposedly exercise your muscles for you while you just stand there. Since I don't enjoy exercise, I'm wondering if this would be a good way to lose weight and improve my fitness.

- Renatta / Illinois

Mayo Clinic physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist Edward Laskowski, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

There's no definitive evidence that whole body vibration provides any fitness or weight-loss benefits, and it may even be harmful for people with certain medical conditions, such as low back pain, or women who are pregnant.

A whole body vibration exercise machine consists of a vibrating platform on which you stand, sit or lie. As the platform vibrates, your muscles are forced to react to the vibration — which supposedly exercises them. Manufacturers claim that training sessions of only a few minutes twice a week can produce measurable effects.

The bottom line is: You can't get the benefits of physical activity without doing any of the work. Passive exercise via whole body vibration isn't an effective means of increasing your endurance, flexibility, strength or stability. It's possible that vibration platforms may help you burn a few extra calories — but they are far less efficient than an activity you initiate and maintain yourself. For this reason, whole body vibration is unlikely to result in any measurable weight loss or fitness gains.

Also, whole body vibration platforms can be expensive, ranging in price from about $400 to $6,000. Physical activity, such as walking, doesn't require any specific equipment — other than good shoes.