Short-Term Vibration Training and Female Jump Performance: A Feasibility Study Investigating a Relatively Low-Cost, Side-Alternating Platform

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of a short-term vibration training intervention, using a relatively low-cost side-alternating platform, on the jump performance of a young recreationally-active female population. Following institutional ethics approval, 22 recreationally-active females (mean: age = 21.1 ± 0.6 years; height = 1.66 ± 0.08 m; mass = 68.1 ± 9.8 kg), recruited via a convenience sampling method, were randomly assigned to a whole-body vibration training (WBVT) or control group. The WBVT group performed static squats and lunges, once-per-week over a six-week period, on a side-alternating vibration platform. The control group followed an identical training protocol without vibration exposure. Lower-body muscular power was assessed before and after the intervention using three maximal vertical countermovement jumps (VCMJ), performed on a contact mat. Results of a repeated measures t-test revealed the WBVT group significantly improved their VCMJ performance (P = 0.012) over the six-week intervention. The control groups’ performance remained relatively stable with no significant increase in jump performance (P = 0.68). The current study supports the inclusion of vibration training as part of an exercise regime to increase jumping performance in a recreationally-active female population. As findings show comparable improvements to those from other studies following similar training protocols, using more expensive vibration platforms, further investigation is now warranted to ascertain responses to vibratory signals received from the variety of low-cost, vibration platform types currently available.