title: Whole-body vibration training as complement to programs aimed at weight loss.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Whole-body vibration training (WBVT) has been shown to be an extremely useful tool for increasing muscle mass, bone tissue, muscle power, flexibility, and strength, among others. However, to date, there are few studies on the effects of WBVT on energy metabolism and whether this tool could be able to enhance weight loss in addition to a nutritional plan and/or exercise.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this review is to analyse the most recent studies on vibration training in order to determine whether this method constitutes a reliable complement to programs aimed at weight loss.
  
  
  METHODS
  An updated literature search was conducted using PubMed, SciELO and SPORTDiscus. In addition, a detailed search was also performed from references given in selected studies.
  
  
  RESULTS
  WBVT appears to be associated with three pathways involved in weight loss: inhibition of adipogenesis and reduction of fat mass, increased energy expenditure, and increase in muscle mass. After analysing the literature, none of the results for the proposed pathways are consistent, and indeed are often contradictory.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Further in-depth research is required on this subject. However, WBVT would appear to be a safe method, and may possibly yield benefits, mainly as regards muscle mass, which in turn might promote weight loss when combined with a nutritional plan and a traditional exercise program.
authors.affiliation: GICEFYD, Grupo de Investigación en Ciencias de Ejercicio Físico y del Deporte. Universidad Viña del Mar. Chile.
authors.forename: Carlos
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Cristi-Montero
authors.forename: María J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Cuevas
authors.forename: Pilar S
authors.initials: PS
authors.lastname: Collado
mesh_terms: D050156:Adipogenesis; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D006801:Humans; D009765:Obesity / Q000378:metabolism / Q000628:therapy; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D014732:Vibration / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015431:Weight Loss