Many articles have been written about the importance of starting in, and remaining in correct position on the vibration machines throughout the entire 60 seconds of each pose.
Despite perfect position on machines being non-negotiable in Vibra-Train studios some customers still complain, telling me that standing with feet hip width apart and straight (toes pointing ahead) is not possible, not natural, or not “some other excuse”. I agree that it feels “odd” for those who have done dancing, military training or stood “at ease” for long periods of time at school assembly, outdoors, in the hot sun, daydreaming about the cute new boy in biology class instead of listening to the Headmaster, but correct foot position is essential so that in the squat the body is symmetrical and balanced allowing the vibrations to target the muscles accurately.
Being out of position on a High Force Vertical Vibration Platform has the potential to be dangerous. If the knees are forward of the toes in a squat position the vibrations are not targetting the girth of the muscles, as purposed, but are affecting the knees.
Recently I’ve experienced how “being out of position” can even affect Trainers. Somedays I help new customers by placing my right leg up onto the machine for stability while I help them with the superman squat, supporting their balance by holding their arms up for the last 10 or 20 seconds of the position. This should not cause me any discomfort but somedays I’ve developed a sore knee. I have a cartilage tear in that knee and healing is helped by the vibration of the machines so I’ve been puzzled why it has been painful. It was very simple - by placing my foot onto the platform at a slight angle rather than straight in front of my body, I was “out of position”. Trainers must be aware, at all times, never becoming complacent or careless around the machines. I’ve corrected and have no knee pain.
