Gerakaki, M., Paradisis, G., & Tziortzis, S. (2009). Acute effects of whole-body vibration on sprint running kinematics in sprint athletes. A paper presented at the 14th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science, Oslo, Norway, June 24-27.

This study investigated the acute effects of whole-body vibration on sprint running kinematics in sprint athletes (N = 35). The main hypothesis was that a single session of whole-body vibration would cause neuromuscular enhancement and improved sprint performance. Ss were randomly assigned into experimental (with vibration) or control (without vibration) groups. The experimental group performed a single session of whole-body vibration consisting of two dynamic exercises (half squat, lunge) for 90 seconds. Sprint performance tests over 60 m were performed by both groups, before and after the whole-body vibration session. The time and average velocity at distances of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 m were determined. Step length and step rate during the 40-50 m interval were measured off a video recording.

A single session of whole-body vibration had no effect on either group's 60 m sprint performance. Despite this, time at 50 m increased significantly and running velocity decreased significantly for the vibration group. Step length and rate in the 40-50 m interval was not affected.

Implication. Ninety seconds of continuous whole-body vibration produced no improvement in sprinting 60 m. However, it did interfere with performance by the 50 m mark. Step length and rate in the 40-50 m interval were not affected.

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