The power plate hit the gym floors in 1999 and came swiftly into the public eye. Have fitness fanatics, after over a decade of power plate usage by both gym bunnies and those using the machines in their own homes, concluded that it has been worth the hype?

Its unique attribute is that it vibrates. While the user does exercises such as push ups, squats and crunches, the vibrating element contracts their muscles from 30 to 50 times a second. This intensifies the workout leading to faster results. The normal number of contractions per second is, in contrast, once or twice a second. The workout can be altered with different speed levels.

Interestingly, the method and technology that led to the invention of the power plate was conceived by a Russian scientist named Vladimir Nazarov. The apparatus was created in order to help astronauts to maintain their muscle mass while on board space ships. It was then developed for commercial purposes by Guus van der Meer. Results of its original purpose indicate the technologies proficiency. The Russian crew lasted 240 days in Space, whereas the US who used standard exercise machines only made 120.

The promoters of the power plate state that doing 10 minutes of exercise on the machine is equal do doing 60 minutes of ordinary exercise. This clearly has advantages in terms of a time/benefit ratio. The power plate is also beneficial for weight loss. While it is primarily for toning rather than for cardio exercise, having a greater muscle mass burns more calories in day-to-day activities and even in periods of rest. Doing a mixture of compound exercises and isolation exercises also increases its all round effectiveness.

It can also be very useful for sport specific training of certain muscle groups. The user positions themselves into their sport specific stance such as standing as if swinging a golf club. They will advance these specific muscles.

It is stated that the elderly can use the machine to gain a good workout with gentle movements. It is thought by some that it is even beneficial for those with multiple sclerosis and other diseases in which the patients are at risk of osteoporosis. Therefore it is not only beneficial for the young and super fit, but can bring a positive impact to those who are less able to partake in rigorous exercise.

Using the equipment properly is of utmost importance in order to reduce potential risks. Plenty of water must be drunk before, during and after the workout. The increase in muscle contractions requires good hydration. The user must also adopt the correct positions to reduce strain on their joints.

Though the cost of machines is high, buying a cheaper brand can dramatically reduce the price of a machine with this technology. They are available in many gyms as well, so you do not need to fork out a huge sum to get its benefits. So, will this investment of time and money yield results?

Many celebrities endorse this product. Included among them are Elle MacPherson, Rachel Weisz and Courteney Cox. Though scientific evidence has not conclusively substantiated claims by makers, evidence has proven that it is an effective exercise tool, and surely worth three 15 minute blasts a week.

An Exercise Equipment Toronto store provides a wide variety of fitness equipment including Treadmills Toronto, Ellipticals, and Power Plate. Physical Assets-The Fitness Equipment Store 110 Avenue Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 2H4, Canada 416-925-2021

An Exercise Equipment Toronto store provides a wide variety of fitness equipment including Treadmills Toronto, Ellipticals, and Power Plate. Physical Assets-The Fitness Equipment Store 110 Avenue Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 2H4, Canada 416-925-2021 . Visit http://www.physicalassets.com .

Author Bio: An Exercise Equipment Toronto store provides a wide variety of fitness equipment including Treadmills Toronto, Ellipticals, and Power Plate. Physical Assets-The Fitness Equipment Store 110 Avenue Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 2H4, Canada 416-925-2021

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Fitness, health, equipment, beauty, exercise, society, hobbies, sports, recreation, nutrition