Can whole-body vibration training affect the flexibility of the pelvis-hip complex muscles?

The aim of this study was the examination of the effect of WBV training on the flexibility of the pelvis-hip complex muscle in adults with generalized joint hypermobility (GJH).

Material and Methods

The research included 33 participants aged 22-25 years (GJH group and the control Group).

1. The first researcher assessed the GJH by use 9-point Beighton test.

2. The second researcher and the third researcher evaluated flexibility of hamstrings during 1) the straight leg rise test (SLR) and 2) the popliteal angle test (PA), and 3) one- and two-joint hip flexors (One-JHF and Two-JHF) flexibility during the modified Thomas test (before and after 2-weeks of vibration training).

Both groups – with and without GJH were trained on the vibration platform. During first week, the vibration frequency was 15 Hz, during second week 30 Hz. Each training consisted of three 3-minute trials with 30-second breaks. The participants’ stand up position was relaxed with knees slightly bent. The participants were barefoot and the feet were positioned on “3” on the platform, reaching 3 mm of the amplitude of the vibration.