No Sweat Fitness - A Myth?

My son does pushups, on his toes, claping his hands behind his head. Remember when life was all about how well your body worked? What happened? We use to be so healthy. Now, no matter how much weight I loose, I still look round.


The new fitness sales pitch is the guarantee to create a great shape without breaking a sweat. Millions will shell out cash in hopes of an effective sweat-free workout.

Remember the old fitness machines from the 60s? You stood on a pad and a band wrapped around your butt? Well - this type of machine is still making a come back in different forms.

The latest product is the Power-Plate. The machine that looks like a large scale and vibrats while you execute a few squats, lunges, push-ups and sit-ups. The vibrating plates, causes the muscles to contract up to 50 times per second, which they claim leads to an increase in muscle strength.

Is it possible?

Some studies suggest that vibration machines improve balance in the elderly, bone density, strength, and flexibility among people who are already active, while other publications imply better success with a traditional workouts.

Pierre Blanchet, a Montreal-based fitness co-ordinator, was intrigued. And while skeptical of new fitness gadgets, he decided that his clientele, many benefit from it. So far, the Power-Plate has been kept out of the gym.

"The machine requires some knowledge to use," Blanchet said. "If you don't follow the right progressions, it can be uncomfortable."

Some people have complained of headaches, nausea and an increased urge to use the bathroom. Despite theis, Blanchet is happy with the results of those trained to use the machine. The feedback from clients, including professional athletes, is that it's easy to underestimate the workout. The exercise routine doesn't feel difficult while in progress, but once you step off the machine, your muscles tell a different story. Post workout fatigue sets in quickly.

I translate this to mean that it will be hard on older bones and muscles unless the person is already active. But, if you do need something to help your body keep up with your expectations - this type of machine may do the trick/