Acceleration Transmission from an Oscillating Vibration Exercise Platform in Different Postures: A Pilot Study

Whole-body vibration exercises (WBVE) are a physical activity modality, promoted by mechanical vibrations generated in oscillating/vibratory platform (OVP). Used in the squatting-posture, but under limiting conditions, an alternative is sitting-posture. The objective was to evaluate acceleration transmission in specific body regions in: (I) squatting-posture; (II) sitting on chair with a free or (III) perpendicular ankle angle to the platform. Four volunteers performed single OVP protocol. An accelerometer was used on knee, lumbar, sternum and head to measure vertical displacement. The root-mean square (RMS) was computed for each signal, as well as the RMS-transmissibility (TRMS). TRMS varied for different parts of body: knees, head and lumbar spine were lowest in seated postures; there was an amplification of the vibration (TRMS > 100%) on the knee in all postures analyzed; a greater attenuation was observed in sternum. Seating positions seem to reduce vibration transmissibility for the upper parts of the body.