Scientists Found a Third State of Life. It Begins After Death.
Mind-blowing new research shows that, at least for some cells, death isn't the end, but the beginning of something entirely unexpected—and it all manifests in the form of strange little creatures called xenobots.
Watch Pop Mech editors Andrew Daniels and John Gilpatrick dive into these tiny clusters of frog stem cells that scientists have designed to move, heal, and even organize on their own. They're not technically alive, but they're also not completely dead.
Andrew and John unpack how these 'living robots' challenge our understanding of evolution, consciousness, and even what it means to be human.
Along the way, they raise a wild possibility: Could the cells in your body think for themselves? Does consciousness exist not just in brains, but in tissues and organs? Some scientists say yes. Others call it pseudoscience. For now, the debate rages on.
Watch the full episode above now, and find more installments of the Astounding Pop Mech Show on PopularMechanics.com.
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Your chest should come close to touching the platform. Perform three sets of 10 reps, taking 30 seconds of rest between each set. High plank holds You can also use a vibration plate to perform a high plank hold, which is "great for your core and upper body strength," says Wilson. Here's how: Get into a high plank position by placing your palms flat on the platform and stretching your legs long behind you. Hold for 30 seconds. Perform three sets, taking 15 seconds of rest between each set. Tricep dips "This exercise works the back of the arm as well as the shoulder," says Wilson. "You're going to experience much more muscle activation when doing it on a vibration plate machine." Here's how: Sit on the edge of the platform. Place your palms on the platform (just outside of your hips). Keep your feet flat on the ground with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Scoot forward until you're hovering in front of the platform, only supported by your arms and legs. Lower your hips toward the ground by bending at the elbows, stopping when your elbows reach 90 degrees or when you can't lower your hips further. Push through your palms and return to the starting position. Perform three sets of 10 reps, taking 30 seconds of rest between each set. urbazon/Getty Images Do vibration plates work if you just stand on them? You don't need to perform exercises while using a vibration plate, but experts say moving your body -- rather than standing still -- will help you get more out of the machine. "Actively moving while using the plate maximizes its benefits, even though simply standing on it can support circulation and balance," says Verebes. Betts agrees, adding: "Standing still on a vibration plate provides some stimulus through the muscle contractions, but adding movement increases the benefits. Static positions can help with circulation and muscle activation, but dynamic exercises will give you strength gains, balance improvements and overall training effects." If you've never used a vibration plate before, you could begin by standing in place or squatting while you're on the machine. As you get more comfortable, you can incorporate different exercises and positions. Or you can alternate between standing still and exercising, suggests Betts. "Combine both approaches -- use static holds to build comfort and awareness, then move for optimal results," he says. "Form and progression are key regardless of whether you're moving or holding positions." The bottom line Simply scrolling through social media, you might get the idea that vibration plates are an easy, low-commitment way to transform your body. While it's true that vibration plates offer some compelling benefits, they aren't a shortcut to fitness. To get the best results from your vibration plate training, experts also recommend following a healthy diet and participating in other forms of exercise. It's also a good idea to speak with your doctor before you start using a vibration plate -- especially if you've had blood clots, joint issues or other health conditions.
