Latest news with #LauraWilson
CNET
08-05-2025
- Health
- CNET
Do Whole Body Vibration Plates Really Work? We Asked Fitness Experts
You might remember the vibrating belt machines from the mid-20th century that were promoted as weight loss aids. Fast-forward many decades, and now vibration plates are the latest fitness trend, again. Some claim they are an excellent alternative workout method with several health benefits. However, researchers continue to study the potential benefits of vibration exercise. There's a lot of hype around vibration plates, though the facts are harder to come by. That's why we spoke with personal trainers and other fitness professionals to learn more about vibration plates and if you should use them at home. What is a vibration plate? A vibration plate is an exercise machine that shakes rapidly when you stand on it. By using a vibration plate, you're engaging in a whole-body vibration exercise, where your muscles are forced to contract and relax quickly. "The purpose of vibration plates is to generate quick vibrations that cause your body's muscles to contract and relax several times per second," says Dr. Leah Verebes, a physical therapist and assistant professor at Touro University's School of Health Sciences. "At a far greater frequency, this resembles the spontaneous contractions that take place during exercise." "This stimulates a subconscious muscle activation each time the machine moves, meaning your muscles are activating far more than they would on a stable surface," says Laura Wilson, a personal trainer at Life Time Fishers and director of training and curriculum at Power Plate, a company that produces vibrating exercise machines. There are several ways to use a vibration plate, the most common being standing on its rectangular platform. However, you can also perform squats or push-ups on it. Wilson says vibration plates can move in multiple directions: up and down, side to side and front to back. The harmonic vibrations move between 25 to 50 times per second, activating the corresponding muscles. Are there actual benefits to using vibration plates? Yes, there are health benefits to using vibration plates. According to Verebes, some of the advantages may include "improved muscle tone and strength, better circulation, higher bone density, improved flexibility and balance, lymphatic drainage and the possibility of weight loss when paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise." However, experts agree that vibration plates offer the most benefits when used as part of an overall health and wellness plan. In other words, you shouldn't expect to lose weight or increase muscle strength just by standing on a vibration plate -- even if social media makes it seem so. Instead, experts suggest supplementing vibration exercise with other healthy habits, including a balanced diet and aerobic and strength training. "Vibration plates are not a magic bullet or a replacement for traditional exercise," warns Michael Betts, a personal trainer and director at TRAINFITNESS. "The benefits are modest and work best when combined with other forms of training." Still, research indicates that using vibration plates can have positive effects on your health. For example, one 2021 study looked at whether whole-body vibration training could improve muscle strength in older adults, concluding that it "may be an alternative exercise method to boost the effect of strengthening exercise." Similarly, a 2007 study investigated the effects of whole-body vibration training in men over 60 and found that it has the "potential to prevent or reverse the age-related loss in skeletal muscle mass, referred to as sarcopenia." Other research suggests that vibration-based exercise may help improve bone mass density, reduce inflammation, alleviate chronic low back pain and more. Are there any vibration plate risks? urbazon/Getty Images For most, vibration plates are generally safe. However, like any other type of exercise, they come with a few potential risks, including "aggravation of existing conditions, temporary dizziness and joint stress if used incorrectly," according to Betts. There are also certain groups of people who should avoid using vibration plates altogether. "Vibration plates shouldn't be used by anyone with cardiac or circulatory disorders, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pacemakers; pregnant women; people who have just had surgery; and people who have severe osteoporosis," Verebes says. "People with pre-existing disorders, including herniated discs, joint issues or acute inflammation, may experience worsening symptoms when using vibration plates," she adds. "The vibrations may also be disconcerting to people who have inner ear problems or balance abnormalities." Verebes points out that "excessive use or high-intensity vibrations may strain ligaments, muscles or joints." Even if you don't have one of these conditions, it's still a good idea to talk to your doctor before getting on a vibration plate. It's also worth mentioning that a 2015 study discovered a link between regular exposure to whole-body vibration and a higher risk of lower back pain and sciatica. However, the participants in that study were regularly exposed to vibration as part of their jobs, so the results may not apply to vibration plate users. How long and often should you use a vibration plate? If you're new to whole-body vibration training, it's important to start slowly. "To allow the body to adapt to vibrations, beginners should start with 5 to 10 minutes at a low intensity," says Verebes. "Moderation is key, as excessive use may lead to fatigue or injury." As a beginner, it's best to limit yourself to two to three sessions per week, says Betts. Over time, you can work toward longer and more frequent sessions. "As your body adapts, you can increase to 15- to 20-minute sessions up to 3 to 4 times a week," he says. "Never go over 30 minutes, as this can cause fatigue and joint stress." For proper recovery, Betts also recommends leaving at least 24 hours between vibration plate sessions. "Listen to your body and adjust accordingly," he advises. "Quality of movement matters more than duration." LordHenriVoton/Getty Images Exercises you can do on a vibration plate To use a vibration plate, you can simply stand in place with slightly bent knees. You can also engage in other exercises -- like squats or push-ups -- while using the machine. "Incorporating exercises such as squats, lunges, planks, push-ups and core workouts enhances results by engaging more muscle groups and boosting calorie burn," says Verebes. If you're up to the challenge, here are three vibration plate exercises to try, as recommended by Wilson: Push-ups "Push-ups work your chest and shoulders -- and doing them on a vibration plate activates many more muscle fibers per second than if you were to do them on the floor," says Wilson. To perform a push-up on a vibration plate, follow these steps: Get into a high plank position by placing your palms flat on the platform and stretching your legs long behind you. Lower into a push-up position slowly. 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.
Buzz Feed
20-03-2025
- Buzz Feed
30 Travel Products From Amazon Our Readers Are Loving In 2025 So Far
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. Beloved items to make your time away from home even sweeter. 1. A pack of Tide sink packets for anyone who's well-versed in the language of travel laundry. With these little guys around, you won't need to head to the store to get way more detergent than you need and can wash a few unplanned loads of underwear and socks (or unplanned loads if you unexpectedly stain something) hassle-free. Tide Each pack comes with three packets. And because they *are* liquid, they'll easily slide into the side of your toiletries bag. Promising review: "Taking these out of the country to wash under-things is exactly the right size." — Laura Wilson 2. A set of Sea Bands to target an acupressure point on your wrist in order to help reduce nausea. According to reviewers, they're worth trying whether you suffer from car sickness, sea sickness, or any other travel tummy ailment. 3. A sleep mask with molded eye cups so you can get some real shut-eye without your eyes literally held shut by a traditional mask that presses on them. Ahhh nice and comfy. 4. A pack of soft silicone earplugs to help you drown out the late-night yammering at a hostel or strange new noises while you're staying at a hotel. Either way, night-night! You're gonna be sleeping soundly. Promising review:"These are the very best earplugs. Would not be without them. Because they are silicone, they fit well over the ear canal, stay in place, and make a huge difference in noise reduction. I take them everywhere as I'm a light sleeper. Tried MANY brands, and these are by far the best. Excellent product." — Mareo Check out our full review of Mack's earplugs for more details. 5. A few anti-pickpocketing clips attach to your luggage zippers, so it's trickier for anyone to get into your precious cargo without you noticing. Amazon Promising review: "Perfect for international travel! Easy to use and protect against theft/pickpockets. Used it on my recent trip to Europe!" — Rachel Bristol 6. A mini white noise machine to help you drown out noise from the room next door, the city below, or even the snoring partner beside you. You love them, but BOY can they honk-shoo. Promising review:"I'm always striving to carry fewer things with me whenever I travel. But a sound machine is a MUST-HAVE for me! This little dude packs a powerful punch! Easy to slip into a tiny spot in your bag, takes very little space on the nightstand but provides a great sound and volume and will last all night. I purposely bought a bright color so I wouldn't accidentally leave it behind because it's so small." — websaver 7. A set of silicone toiletry containers so you can decant all of your favorite products and bring them along for your many adventures. I can't wait for your Tatcha moisturizer to experience the beauty of Florence! The set comes with four bottles, four jars, two spray bottles, scoopers, a funnel, a cleaning brush, and a clear zippered bag. Promising review:"These are easy to fill, and I like that they're different colors, so I know what's what. Usually I have to use permanent marker, so it was nice to not have to do that. Having the spray nozzle separate is wonderful, so it won't leak. I like that it comes in the clear quart case, making it TSA-friendly." — Adell Gray 8. Expandable hangers for anyone who likes to unpack when they get to their destination but never sees what they need when they open the closet. Alternatively, these are perfect for folks who will need to hang dry laundry on the road — garments just dry so much faster and more evenly when hung up. Promising review:"Hotel rooms and cruise ships never have enough hangers. Taking these along made a huge difference in closets and fold up to practically nothing. Lightweight. Love them!" — sb44 9. A luggage scale to ensure you're on track to meet the weight requirements of your next flight. Pro tip: Bring it on your trip so you can make sure you're set for your return flight post-vacay shopping spree, too. Promising review:"The Etekcity luggage scale is a must-have for any traveler! It's compact, easy to use, and provides accurate weight readings for your suitcase. The digital display is clear, and the hook makes it simple to weigh your luggage without hassle. I love that it helps avoid overweight baggage fees, especially when traveling with several bags. Lightweight yet sturdy, this scale is definitely a game changer for stress-free travel. Highly recommended! I have been using it for almost seven years now." — Kevin 10. An Airplane Pocket tray cover for staying organized, entertained, and hydrated on long-haul flights. A secondary benefit of keeping your hands from rooting around in the seat-back pocket that's always kind of sticky. Bleh. BuzzFeed Editor Emma Lord:"I used this on a roundtrip from NYC to Tokyo, both with connecting flights in Canada, and cannot sing its praises enough. It fit all four of the different tray tables I used it on and was so ridiculously handy for keeping track of all my littler odds and ends like AirPods, the plane's headphones, earplugs, a sleep mask, a book, gum, a scrunchie, and little snacks. The hanging end of it easily tucked into the built-in sleeve of the seat in front of me for takeoff and when other passengers needed to scoot past me in my aisle seat. Usually, I feel like a hot mess and get frustrated rooting around in the grimy sleeve for my stuff, and this was such a refreshing solution! Several flight attendants even asked where I got it to buy one for themselves!" 11. A travel pouch that attaches right to your bra to avoid any pickpocketing and simply to travel hands free. Not having a bag to worry about is a freedom like no other. I know that sounds dramatic, but I genuinely mean it! Promising review:"As a solo woman traveler, this is by far the best. Whether you are running through congested markets or enjoying a night at the club, it's a great way to hide your money and cards without worrying about carrying a shoulder bag and leaving it here and there to dance or wondering if it will be snatched. Loooove it." — Melia 12. A clear toiletry bag so you can see exactly what you've packed. It's also like giving your favorite toiletries the window seat on a plane, and that's just nice. Promising review:"No more quart-size plastic bags for me. I can't believe how much stuff I was able to put inside this bag. It measures the perfect size for TSA requirements. Zipper works well. Material is a little on thin side but seemed sturdy enough for my needs. Able to see all my liquid items clearly. Fits 2–3-ounce bottles easily, plus much more. I like the fact that it has a handle too. Very travel-friendly." — Nisi 13. A vacuum-free, space-saving set of compression bags for wrangling your fluffiest coats and sweaters into that carry-on. It's a battle against volume, and you shall prevail. Promising review:"I bought these for a family trip to Europe. We were determined to bring only a small carry-on suitcase and a small backpack each for a weeklong trip. We were able to do that due to these compression bags. They really worked well after we played around with them for a few minutes and figured out the best way to get the most air out. Everything stayed sealed, and we sealed and unsealed our bags about four times. We each used three bags in our suitcases. I was able to bring three pants, one skirt, six tops, one sweater, two bras, seven underpants, seven socks, and two belts all in my suitcase thanks to these bags." — fun and challenging 14. A simple luggage strap that'll give you another spot to clip travel essentials like neck pillows, packable jackets, zippered pouches, or anything else you'd rather transport hands free. Promising review:"I love this little gadget. I used it to attach my jacket and computer bag to my luggage on an extended business trip. It made my airport walks so much easier. Now that I'm back home, I've been using it daily to attach my jacket or cardigan to my work bag or purse." — Michele 15. A Trtl neck pillow with a soft but structured place to lay your head to help you and your plane neighbor avoid a most dreaded fate: you nodding off onto their shoulder. Former BuzzFeeder Ciera Velarde: "I've used this for the past few years and swear by it! Before this, I always found traditional neck pillows uncomfortable and would end up ditching them halfway through the flight and getting frustrated. The Trtl pillow is adjustable — you wrap the pillow around your neck and secure it with Velcro, and if you find it's too loose, just make it a bit tighter! I've truly never slept better on a plane than with this pillow." 16. A car registration and insurance holder so you can rest assured that you and your vehicle are up to snuff on long roadtrips. But I'm SURE you would never get pulled over for speeding. That doesn't sound like you. But it's good to be prepared just in case. Amazon Promising review:"I got pulled over once and just handed him this whole thing. Made the whole process easy, and I'm pretty sure that's why he didn't give me a ticket. 😂 Either way, it saves space and looks so neat." — Roxi 17. A passport holder and travel wallet with an RFID-blocking shield material to keep all of your travel documents and cards in one handy place, making airport navigation much easier. And with space for five passports, there's enough room for the whole family's docs and tickets. Promising review:"This worked perfectly for our family trip to keep everything together! The size is great for the passports, tickets, and any other docs needed for your trip. The pen loop was a great idea to have a pen handy because we needed it several times during our travel to and from Mexico! Definitely recommend!" — Amazon Customer 18. Or an RFID-blocking stash wallet that you can wear as a cross-body and tuck right under an outer-shirt or jacket to keep all of your essentials safe from prying eyes and and hands. Promising review:"Have used several times when traveling, and it can be worn over my shoulder, across my body, or I can just carry it if safety isn't an issue. New larger passports easily fit inside. There are two zippered compartments, and I use one for coins and the other for paper bills." — sgbmom 19. A luggage-mounted cup caddy because chances are your hands are gonna be full no matter where or how you're traveling. No need to forego a tasty bev with this handy dandy invention around. Promising review:"So handy. We travel all the time, and this is perfect for holding drinks while we are at the airport. Love it." — Bruce V. Hartley 20. A wheeled carry-on bag small enough to qualify as a personal item — a huge relief if you need a little more space than just a carry-on to pack *or* if you're looking to ditch the carry-on altogether and downsize. I know I'm always happier, the less I bring. Promising review: "This works out so well for me. I'm a flight attendant, and I've had an infinite amount of day trips over the summer. I got tired of carrying around my regular TravelPro spinner, so I finally ordered this. SOOOOO MUCH BETTER FOR ME. It's light, has enough pockets, and can easily fit under a seat if needed. The ONLY picky thing I can think of is how loud it sounds going across rough concrete. The wheels aren't as silent as others, but that won't stop me from buying another." — Kayla T. 21. A hanging toiletry bag if stuffing all of your travel items into a well-organized bag has been a pipe dream so far. This baby has TONS of pockets, so all of your tools, makeup, skincare, fragrances, and other toiletries can have their own little place. Promising review:"This toiletry bag is much better than I expected! It holds everything I need with some room to spare, yet it isn't terribly bulky. Previously, I used a large plastic bag, and I was always rummaging around in it to find what I needed. When my bodywash leaked out and got all over everything (including my toothbrush), I knew I needed something better than a plastic bag. This toiletry bag is big enough to hold everything I need and keeps everything organized, and if something leaks, it is contained within one compartment. The hook is great to hang it up and have everything visible. The clear plastic is clear and not clouded (at least not yet), unlike for some other reviewers. Hopefully, it stays clear. So far, I am VERY happy with this purchase." — cg128717 22. A pack of LeakLocks Toiletry Skins so you can rest assured you won't open your suitcase only to discover everything is covered in your best lavender shampoo. A true tragedy. Promising review: "These covered various sizes of products — hair care, body wash, etc. Nothing leaked out of these whatsoever, even after a lid popped open during a flight. These prevented it from leaking out on the other contents of my luggage. Easy to use. Not flimsy. Very flexible. LOVE THESE!" — TAG 24. A set of compression packing cubes to help you stay organized and squeeze just a few more items in. I used to roll my eyes at packing cubes, but once I tried them I saw the truth: Nothing can keep my suitcase from looking like tornado vomit quite like these. Promising review:"I used these packing cubes for a week-long trip to Puerto Rico and was able to get everything into a carry-on because of them! The material is nice, the colors are pretty, and I like the variety of sizes of the bags. I'm glad I got them!" — jlcutter Price: $39.99 (available in 20 colors or smaller pack sizes) 25. A backseat hook for organizing your backseat more elegantly during road trips. It may seem like a small change, but honestly getting your purse off the floor frees up room for more storage. Amazon Promising review:"So easy to install and increases functionality by 1,000% — so great to not have to throw my purse at whoever is in the passenger seat. I also love that my purse doesn't spill every time I stop or turn. Such a simple thing, but it makes a huge difference." — Rachael Price: $5.99 for a set of two (available in two colors and also as a four-pack) 26. A Drop Stop to prevent food, coins, your phone —anything! — from getting lost between your car's seat and center console. Heck, you could probably pay for the whole trip with the amount of change you'll eventually rescue. The Drop Stop is squishy and can squeeze into almost any vehicle. Promising review:"I have to admit, my expectations weren't very high. I thought it was more of a joke when my husband got this for me for Christmas. Little did I realize it would be one of my most favorite gadgets ever! I don't know if I realized just how many things went missing in my seat gap. It has really saved a lot of things from disappearing into that black hole. It was easy enough to fit into my car, and it's soft! It's just like an extension of my seat, except it fits every curve of my seat! There really isn't another product that compares to this." — Tessa Forbes Price: $24.99 for a set of two 27. A combo packing cube and hanging organizer you can simply unfurl when you get to your hotel, and voila! You have a shelf system full of folded clothes ready to go. Might wanna go ahead and get a cape and top hat too because you'll feel like a magician. Promising review:"I am the type of traveler who likes to hang things up and put clothes in drawers. I just traveled in Europe for a month using a European airplane-sized bag for carry-on. This fit in the suitcase quite well with room for an extra pair of shoes. I also purchased two metal hangers that fit over a door for when there wasn't a closet to hang it. This was a wonderful addition to my travel life, reducing the stress of rummaging in my suitcase. I used the lower zipped section for laundry. I highly recommend!" — R. R. McDonnell Price: $22.99 (available in nine colors) 28. A portable safe that can help assuage some of your worry when it comes to traveling with valuables, especially solo. Equipped with a four-digit code and a cable to affix it to a secure spot, hopefully, this'll allow you to feel comfortable enough to take a dip in the pool or ocean while leaving your essentials behind. Amazon, Promising review:"This safe has become a MUST-have on all our vacations. We no longer travel without it. We put two iPhones, cash, and car keys in this little safe, locked it to a beach cabana, threw a towel over it, and took off for an hour of snorkeling. Never once worried about our belongings. We now use several of these as room safes AND as 'hide a key' lockboxes outside our vacation condo for teens who come and go throughout the day. They are invaluable!" — KeepIT Reel Price: $19.38+ (available in two colors) 29. A travel scarf with a hidden storage pocket to keep can't-lose documents and cards on your person and incognito while also staying warm *and* accessorizing? What can't this scarf do? Amazon, Waypoint Goods is a small biz that specializes in travel accessories. Promising review: "I took my scarf on a recent trip to England, and I was so happy I brought it! It kept me warm on the days it was cold, and when it warmed up, I could wrap it loosely around my neck for a pop of color. I typically wear all black when I travel, so this was a bit outside my comfort level, but soon, I realized how a little color brightens up my face. The added benefit of this scarf is the built-in secret compartment. When I was running out for a few things, I was able to pop my room key and a few credit cards in there and feel like they were safe and that no one would know where they were (keeping them hidden for pickpockets)." — Bonnie Rubin Price: $35+ (available in five patterns) 30. A 2-in-1 mini hair tool that ingeniously combines a curling iron and flat iron so you can keep your bulkier tools at home for easier packing. Not having to sacrifice your favorite curly or straight hairstyles in the name of vacation? A huge beauty win. Amazon, Promising review:"Don't be fooled by the tiny price or size. This little baby is serious. If you are looking for a small travel option rather than lugging your big straightener and giant curling iron around the world, then I think you'll love this. It performs really well, turning my frizzy, wavy hair into a smooth and sleek style. The curling iron option also creates shiny, silky, lasting curls! It's easy to transition between both. I also like the grippy handle and the fact that the curling iron clip is a different color than the straightening bars because that helps me see how I should maneuver it around. The voltage goes up to 240m, so you are good at using it internationally without a converter (but you will need an adapter just to fit it into various foreign outlets). At this price, definitely give it a try and flaunt your tresses abroad." — Christine Price: $39.99 (available in two colors) Reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
