Whole Body Vibration (WBV) training, especially when done using the Power Plate, has been gaining attention for its potential benefits to both the body and brain. Recent research suggests that it could play an essential role in slowing down cognitive decline, a finding that may bring hope to those at risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. But how does this work, and what exactly is the science behind it? Let’s dive into the study and what it reveals about the effects of WBV on brain function.
What Is Power Plate Whole Body Vibration at the Gym?
Power Plate is a type of device that delivers Whole Body Vibration (WBV). We have several Power Plates at AFAC gym for our members to use. When you stand, sit, or perform exercises on a Power Plate, the machine vibrates, causing your muscles to contract rapidly. These vibrations improve circulation, strengthen muscles, and even enhance balance and coordination. But recent studies are showing that the benefits may go beyond just physical fitness—they may also help the brain.
Understanding Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Before we get into the details of the study, it’s important to understand what Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is. MCI is a condition that sits between normal age-related memory loss and more severe forms of cognitive decline, like dementia. People with MCI may notice problems with memory, speech, or even vision, but they can still go about their daily lives without much trouble.
Though not everyone with MCI will develop dementia, it’s often seen as an early stage of the disease. According to a survey by the Alzheimer’s Association, 82% of Americans either don’t know about MCI or have little understanding of it, despite the fact that over 10 million Americans suffer from it. MCI typically appears in people around the age of 70, but it can happen earlier.
The big question is: can something be done to stop MCI from turning into full-blown dementia? This is where the Power Plate and Whole Body Vibration training come into play.
The Study: How WBV Affects Brain Health
A groundbreaking study conducted by Dr. Ikuo Odano and his team at Miyagi Koseikyokai Izumi Hospital in Japan, in collaboration with Tohoku University’s Department of Aging Research and Geriatric Medicine, looked at whether Whole Body Vibration could help people with Mild Cognitive Impairment. Their research focused on how WBV, using the Power Plate, affected the brain, specifically by increasing blood flow in certain regions.
Sixteen participants with an average age of 63.5 years, all of whom were experiencing forgetfulness, took part in the study. For four weeks, the participants performed WBV exercises on the Power Plate. Each session consisted of 30-second intervals of vibration, followed by 30 seconds of rest, and lasted for about 20 minutes. The vibration frequency was set between 35 to 40Hz, with a low amplitude to ensure safety and comfort.
The researchers used advanced brain imaging technology to measure changes in blood flow in the brain, particularly in areas related to memory and cognition, such as the parietal and occipital lobes.
Key Findings: WBV Increases Blood Flow and Enhances Cognitive Function
The results of the study were exciting. The researchers discovered that WBV significantly increased the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in the parietal and occipital lobes of the brain. Why is this important? These areas are crucial for processing visual information and spatial awareness, functions often impaired in people with MCI.
Increased blood flow to these regions means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to brain cells, which may help improve brain function and slow down cognitive decline. In fact, six of the participants who underwent 24 weeks of WBV training showed notable improvements in cognitive function, as assessed by neuropsychological tests and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).
These findings suggest that regular use of Power Plate for WBV exercises may help slow the progression of MCI to more severe forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Why Is Increased Blood Flow Important?
One of the main reasons behind cognitive decline in conditions like MCI and dementia is reduced blood flow to key areas of the brain. Without enough blood, brain cells don’t get the oxygen and nutrients they need to function properly. Over time, this can lead to memory loss, trouble concentrating, and difficulty performing everyday tasks.
WBV helps improve circulation throughout the body, and this study shows that it also enhances blood flow in the brain. By keeping brain cells healthy, WBV could help protect against the worsening of cognitive symptoms.
The Broader Impact of WBV on Aging
The benefits of WBV aren’t limited to just improving brain health. Whole Body Vibration is already well known for its positive effects on physical health, particularly for older adults. It can help improve muscle strength, balance, and flexibility, which are all important for maintaining independence as we age.
Power Plate’s ability to improve blood flow could also help prevent conditions like vascular dementia, which is caused by impaired blood flow to the brain. This makes WBV a versatile tool for promoting overall health in older adults.
What This Means for the Future of Cognitive Health
While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of WBV on the brain, this study provides strong evidence that it could be a valuable tool for people with MCI or those at risk of dementia. The fact that something as simple as standing or exercising on a vibrating platform could slow down cognitive decline is promising for future treatments.
The key takeaway is that early intervention matters. If we can use tools like the Power Plate to improve brain health before MCI progresses into something more serious, we may be able to reduce the number of people who develop dementia in the future.
A New Way to Fight Cognitive Decline at the Gym
Power Plate Whole Body Vibration is more than just a tool for physical fitness; it’s a potential game-changer for brain health, too. With its ability to boost blood flow to important areas of the brain and improve cognitive function, WBV may offer a new way to fight against the progression of cognitive decline.
For anyone concerned about memory loss or cognitive health, incorporating WBV exercises into their routine could be a simple yet effective way to protect their brain as they age. As more research unfolds, we might see Power Plate and WBV become common tools in the fight against dementia.
If you’ve been searching for the perfect local gym that has Power Plates for your use, we hope you’ll stop by AFAC to take a tour of our gym and speak to our team about our affordable memberships. AFAC gym is committed to supporting your health and wellness efforts, so you’ll see the results you’re working so hard for. That’s why we were voted the best gym in Thornton, Colorado, and have hundreds of 5-star reviews.
To learn more about our top-rated gym and our incredible array of strength training and cardio equipment — as well as our unique offerings and amenities like daily group classes, cryotherapy, InBody 770 assessments, hydro massage, and our rock climbing wall and cave — we hope you will contact us or visit for a personalized tour. Our team will be happy to help you. For more information and assistance, you can also contact our gym owner, Susan, at 720-849-0245 or susan@adventurefitness.club.
