EFFECTS OF VIBRATION TRAINING ON FORCE PRODUCTION IN FEMALE BASKETBALL PLAYERS

Fernandez-Rio, J, Terrados, N, Fernandez-Garcia, B, and Suman, OE. Effects of vibration training on force production in female basketball players. J Strength Cond Res 24(5): 1373-1380, 2010-The goal of this research project was to investigate the long-term effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) training on force production. Thirty-one female basketball players were randomly distributed in an experimental group: VG (vibration) and a control group: CG (no vibration). Both groups participated in the same training program; however, the experimental group (VG) performed a set of exercises on a vibration platform (Power Plate (R)) at 30-to 35-Hz frequency and 4 mm amplitude, whereas the CG performed the same exercises at 0 Hz. Muscle performance of the legs was tested on a contact-time platform (Ergojump (R), Finland) through several tests: squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and 15-second maximal performance jump; squat leg power (knee extension) was also evaluated using an Ergopower machine (R) (Bosco, Italy). After 14 weeks, there was a significant increase (p < 0.001) from initial to final tests in both groups (CG and VG) in SJ, CMJ, 15 seconds, and squat leg power. However, there were no significant differences between the VG and the CG for any of the parameters evaluated. The findings of this study indicate that WBV training has no additive or discernible effect on the strength development of female basketball players after several weeks of use, suggesting that the application of this technology has no advantages over traditional strength training methods.