Latest news with #NicWilson
Economic Times
20-07-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Old-school weight loss machines are going viral again. What's behind the 'vibration plate' trend?
Synopsis Vibration plates, once a forgotten fad, are making waves again on social media as an easy weight-loss solution. Though some research supports their benefits—like improved circulation and fat loss—experts warn they aren't a standalone fix. For those unable to hit the gym, these buzzing machines offer emotional relief and gentle workouts, but with limitations. iStock The vibration plate trend is back, promising quick fat loss, better balance, and muscle toning through passive movement. While studies show some benefits, experts say it's no magic solution. (Image: iStock) In a world where fitness trends often come and go like viral TikTok dances, one seemingly passive workout method is making a loud, rumbling comeback — quite literally. It's called vibration plate training, and it promises muscle tone, better balance, fat loss, and even stress relief. But is this buzzing weight loss trend the real deal or just another flashy fad? A deeper look reveals a mix of intrigue, science, and skepticism. The idea behind vibration plate machines, also known as whole-body vibration platforms, is surprisingly simple. Stand, squat, or do light exercises on a platform that vibrates, and let your muscles do the work reflexively. That involuntary contraction — said to happen up to 30 times a second — supposedly mimics the effects of exercise in a shorter span of time. As fitness trainer Nic Wilson told Fox News Digital, these machines 'force the muscles to contract more frequently,' potentially improving strength, balance, and coordination. In our time-starved lives, this low-impact, 10-15 minute option seems like a dream — especially for busy people or those with mobility issues. The machines first gained popularity years ago but are trending again thanks to social media influencers touting dramatic before-and-after results. A WebMD medically reviewed guide notes potential benefits such as increased bone mass, better circulation, reduced cortisol (the stress hormone), and decreased post-exercise soreness. A 2019 review highlighted in Healthline examined seven studies with 280 participants and found that vibration training did lead to a significant fat loss. However, it didn't make much difference in overall body fat percentage unless the program lasted longer than six months. Another study in 2016 showed that combining vibration training with diet resulted in comparable fat loss to an aerobic workout-and-diet combo — offering some promising hope to those looking for variety in their fitness routine. Despite the buzz, experts caution that vibration training is no silver bullet. 'They're no substitute for the basics of good health, like regular exercise and a healthy diet,' WebMD warns. Wilson echoed this sentiment, saying the machines don't burn large amounts of calories and are not a stand-alone solution for weight loss. There are also safety concerns. People with joint problems, cardiovascular conditions, or those who are pregnant are advised to consult doctors before hopping on. And while some users claim benefits like pain reduction and better cognitive function, Mayo Clinic stresses that comprehensive long-term research is still lacking. For many, the appeal of vibration plates lies in the emotional and physical accessibility. Not everyone enjoys intense cardio or lifting weights at the gym. For someone anxious about movement or recovering from injury, the gentle hum of a vibration platform may feel more welcoming than a spinning class. As one fitness enthusiast shared online, 'I feel like I'm doing something good for myself — even when I'm standing still.' The answer: Yes — but with conditions. Vibration plates can be a beneficial addition to a well-rounded fitness routine, especially for muscle stimulation and bone health. But they shouldn't replace traditional exercise or diet. Think of them more as a side dish, not the main course, on your weight loss plate. In the end, the vibration plate trend may not shake up the fitness world entirely, but it's certainly got people standing up — and maybe, just maybe, slimming down.
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Old-school weight loss machines are going viral again. What's behind the 'vibration plate' trend?
In a world where fitness trends often come and go like viral TikTok dances, one seemingly passive workout method is making a loud, rumbling comeback — quite literally. It's called vibration plate training , and it promises muscle tone , better balance, fat loss , and even stress relief. But is this buzzing weight loss trend the real deal or just another flashy fad? A deeper look reveals a mix of intrigue, science, and skepticism. A Trend That's Got Everyone Buzzing The idea behind vibration plate machines, also known as whole-body vibration platforms , is surprisingly simple. Stand, squat, or do light exercises on a platform that vibrates, and let your muscles do the work reflexively. That involuntary contraction — said to happen up to 30 times a second — supposedly mimics the effects of exercise in a shorter span of time. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category As fitness trainer Nic Wilson told Fox News Digital, these machines 'force the muscles to contract more frequently,' potentially improving strength, balance, and coordination. In our time-starved lives, this low-impact, 10-15 minute option seems like a dream — especially for busy people or those with mobility issues. The Science Behind the Shake The machines first gained popularity years ago but are trending again thanks to social media influencers touting dramatic before-and-after results. A WebMD medically reviewed guide notes potential benefits such as increased bone mass, better circulation, reduced cortisol (the stress hormone), and decreased post-exercise soreness. A 2019 review highlighted in Healthline examined seven studies with 280 participants and found that vibration training did lead to a significant fat loss. However, it didn't make much difference in overall body fat percentage unless the program lasted longer than six months. Another study in 2016 showed that combining vibration training with diet resulted in comparable fat loss to an aerobic workout-and-diet combo — offering some promising hope to those looking for variety in their fitness routine. You Might Also Like: Man credits ChatGPT for his 27 kg weight loss in 6 months but learnt a bigger lesson for life iStock The machines first gained popularity years ago but are trending again thanks to social media influencers touting dramatic before-and-after results. (Image; iStock) But There's a Catch Despite the buzz, experts caution that vibration training is no silver bullet. 'They're no substitute for the basics of good health, like regular exercise and a healthy diet,' WebMD warns. Wilson echoed this sentiment, saying the machines don't burn large amounts of calories and are not a stand-alone solution for weight loss. There are also safety concerns. People with joint problems, cardiovascular conditions, or those who are pregnant are advised to consult doctors before hopping on. And while some users claim benefits like pain reduction and better cognitive function, Mayo Clinic stresses that comprehensive long-term research is still lacking. The Emotional Pull of a Quieter Workout For many, the appeal of vibration plates lies in the emotional and physical accessibility. Not everyone enjoys intense cardio or lifting weights at the gym. For someone anxious about movement or recovering from injury, the gentle hum of a vibration platform may feel more welcoming than a spinning class. As one fitness enthusiast shared online, 'I feel like I'm doing something good for myself — even when I'm standing still.' You Might Also Like: Sara Ali Khan's 45 kg weight loss plan had one meal per day: Her exercise routine, diet secrets for fit body So, Does It Work? The answer: Yes — but with conditions. Vibration plates can be a beneficial addition to a well-rounded fitness routine, especially for muscle stimulation and bone health. But they shouldn't replace traditional exercise or diet. Think of them more as a side dish, not the main course, on your weight loss plate. In the end, the vibration plate trend may not shake up the fitness world entirely, but it's certainly got people standing up — and maybe, just maybe, slimming down.
Fox News
20-07-2025
- Health
- Fox News
People are using vibration plates for weight loss: Do they work?
A new fitness fad is all about catching a vibe. Vibrating plates, or vibration plate machines, have been trending on social media as a potentially effective method for losing weight and burning fat. The fitness device uses whole-body vibration to stimulate the muscles, according to a medically reviewed guide by WebMD. The constant contracting and relaxing of the muscles through vibration is also said to help improve strength, flexibility, circulation and bone mass. Vibration treatment can also decrease post-exercise muscle soreness and lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol, according to WebMD. "But always check with your doctor before you use them," the guide noted. "They're no substitute for the basics of good health, like regular exercise and a healthy diet." Vibration machines can sometimes be found at gyms, but have become popularized for at-home use. Nic Wilson, a fitness trainer at F45 Training in Hollwood, California, confirmed in an interview with Fox News Digital that vibration plates can improve muscle activation by forcing the muscles to "contract more frequently," which could help with strength, balance and coordination. Even short, 10- to 15-minute sessions can provide benefits, according to Wilson, making the plates appealing to those who have busy schedules or are looking for low-impact options. Some studies have also suggested that vibration training may support improved bone density, especially in older adults or people with limited mobility, according to the expert. Wilson did note that there are some limitations to vibration training, including the fact that they don't burn a large amount of calories. "While they can enhance muscle activation, vibration plates alone are not a high-calorie-burning workout and won't replace traditional cardio or strength training for weight loss or conditioning," he told Fox News Digital. "It's not yet clear if whole-body vibration provides the same range of health benefits as exercise you actively engage in." The fitness expert also stressed that this method of exercise is not for everyone. "People with certain medical conditions — [like] joint issues, pregnancy or cardiovascular problems — should consult a healthcare professional, as the vibrations can potentially aggravate these [circumstances]." A Mayo Clinic forum on whole-body vibration noted that while advocates back these benefits, comprehensive research is "lacking." "It's not yet clear if whole-body vibration provides the same range of health benefits as exercise you actively engage in, such as walking, biking or swimming," the clinic wrote. For more Health articles, visit "Some research does show that whole-body vibration may help improve muscle strength and that it may help with weight loss when you also cut back on calories." Other research has shown that whole-body vibration, performed appropriately under medical supervision, could help reduce back pain, lower blood pressure and improve cognitive function. Those interested in trying the alternative therapy should consult with a medical professional to ensure safe usage.
Irish Independent
10-06-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
‘My mum's postnatal depression was so severe it tore our family apart – then the same thing happened to me'
As a child, Nic Wilson was nearly put into care due to her mother's paralysing mental and neurological issues. But it was only as an adult that she began to understand what her mum went through Today at 21:30 When I was three years old, my brother and I came within a cat's whisker of being taken into care because of my mother's postnatal depression and chronic illness. As a young woman, Mum had been dismissed by medical professionals as a malingerer and denied help for undiagnosed ME/CFS (a debilitating multi-system neurological chronic fatigue condition). When she had us, she developed severe postnatal depression on top of this.
