Effects of the training with vibro platform in sportsmen of high performance

Abstract

The aim of this study is determine the effects of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) in jumping ability and flexibility in high performance gymnasts. Seven male gymnasts of National Team of Spain (21.5 ± 5.5 years, 67.1 ± 3.9 kg, 166.3 ± 2.7 cm), performed WBV (Power Plate pro5, Modelo AIRdaptive HP), three times a week for three weeks. The vibration training consisted of 5 sets of 1 minute, 1 minute recovering actively (smooth running), at 45Hz with amplitude of 1,8 mm peak to peak in squat at 45º. Before and after of the WBV period, the gymnasts were tested for the jumping ability in Squat Jump, Countermovement Jump and 30 seconds rebounds. Also the flexibility of gymnasts was tested with “Seat and Reach” test. There were no statistically significant differences in jump performance; none of the three types of jump but there were statistically significant improvements in test “Seat and Reach” flexibility. In conclusion in gymnast tested, WBV with the characteristics described above, does not improve jumping ability but flexibiity.