Exercise is part of living a healthy life, and the best vibration plates can boost bone health, build muscle, and help you lose weight. If you’re not familiar with the device, a vibration plate is a platform that sends high-speed vibrations through your body when you stand on it. This stimulates your muscles, making them stronger.

It may sound like a fad, but there’s some impressive research behind this exercise machine. It’s been shown to reverse Type 2 diabetes symptoms, fight inflammation, and even improve body composition. Before I share our roundup, let’s do a quick deep dive into how they work.

Sometimes called vibration platforms or power plates, vibration therapy has been used since the sixties. But as someone who grew up with the no pain, no gain motto, certain fitness equipment has always hit me as gimmicky. Fat blasting belts and thigh masters? I’m skeptical. Fortunately, that’s not what vibration plates are.

“A vibration plate is often compared to resistance or weight training, but if I had to give a direct comparison, I’d call it accelerated calisthenics,” says Joel Gottehrer, co-founder and COO of Lifepro. “Vibration training or therapy isn’t really its own separate ‘thing,’ [but] a machine that adds stimulation, causing rapid small muscle movements while you do certain exercises, stretches, or even massage positions on it.”

Vibrating platforms work by sending vibrations through the body. To stabilize itself, your muscles jump into action. A small study in BMC Geriatrics showed that the device can trigger muscle fatigue and contractions, which leads to growth. Maintaining or gaining muscle promotes not only strength, but keeps our metabolism from slowing with age.

Vibrating platforms also improve our range of motion. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, researchers found that vibration platforms not only activated muscles but made participants more flexible. There’s also some evidence (from the International Journal of Molecular Science) that they can improve gut health.

In an experiment involving mice, scientists discovered that the vibrations shook immune cells and the microbiome. They noticed that the shaking increased the bacteria Alistipes, an inflammation-fighter. Although researchers are still trying to understand why this happens, it has exciting implications, especially for those with joint issues and Type 2 Diabetes. It’s already been well-documented that inflammation contributes to chronic disease and pain. If these are concerns for you, adding a vibrating plate to your exercise routine may help.

“Vibration training works by creating different low amplitude micro-movements while performing exercises, [such as] stretching positions or slightly modified positions on the surface of the moving platform,” explains Gottehrer. These exercises can include squats, lunges, or crunches.

Most of the best vibration plates include resistance bands to make using the device more engaging. For example, the Fitpulse Vibration Plate comes with loop bands, as well as hand bars. The latter is great for push-ups, and when used with the vibrating plate, you can perform them modified, which is easier on the lower back.

“[Vibrating plates] were initially used for recovery of muscle mass and bone density, but research has diversified to include everyone from beginners and injury-prone users to professional athletes,” says Gottehrer. “Consistency is key to long term gains like anything else, but people really enjoy how it makes them feel, and tend to stick with it.”

According to Science Daily, the best vibration plates can aid weight loss and reduce belly fat. Similar to the best elliptical machines for home or the best upright exercise bikes for weight loss, they offer a low impact workout. Although more research needs to be done, they could be a viable option for seniors who can’t lift weights due to limited mobility. “Certain benefits are immediate and occur whenever using a machine, even [just standing], and some are gained longer term,” says Gottehrer.

“Benefits can include increases in circulation, lymph movement, balance, stability, and even a boost in energy levels can be felt within a minute or two of use. Probably the most notable benefit is that it makes the actual exercises easier, allowing recovery while you do the work. [This is] appealing to users that can’t handle [high] impact or long workouts.”

When shopping for the best vibration plates, pay attention to the plate’s movement pattern and frequency — you’ll see the latter displayed in hertz (Hz).

Some vibrating platforms have a pivotal oscillation pattern. It’s a see-saw motion that offers full body vibration. To maintain balance, you must engage your core. Other vibration plates create a linear movement with the use of a wheel and springs, or offer a combo of both patterns. Having multiple vibration patterns reduces stress on joints and engages more muscles.

Some experts recommend seeking a vibration plate that offers 20 to 45 hertz. At this speed, both large and small muscles around the knee become activated. According to the Journal of Musculoskeletal and Neuronal Interactions the sweet spot for this is 30 hertz.

Vibration platforms that accommodate physical limitations, while offering movement variation or accessories to workout with can help drop pounds. One of the best vibration plates for weight loss is the Lifepro Rumblex 4D. Its frequency goes up to 40hz, includes multiple vibration patterns, and comes with resistance bands. It’s great for injury recovery, promotes circulation, and more. Love it!

Another Lifepro vibrating platform that deserves a mention is the Rhythm Vibration Plate. It doesn’t have a super high frequency, but it has handlebars. As someone who often forgets to stretch and has hurt her knees from running, I sometimes need help squatting deeply. This machine makes that much simpler. Its waves are also strong enough to promote circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage. Anything that gets my blood flowing and decreases the look of cellulite is worth my time.

I’ve already mentioned the Lifepro Rumblex 4D, but it really is one of the best vibration plates you can buy. It offers both pivotal and linear movement, which is challenging, but also smoother then teeter-tottering from one side to the other. However, there are plenty of other vibrating plates that are also good.

The PowerFit Elite Vibration Platform is great for beginners. It includes resistance bands to work your upper body and vibrates in multiple directions. It goes up to 99 in intensity, but even if you keep things low, you’ll still engage your muscles. Alternatively, the BlueFin Fitness 4D Vibration Plate pivots and offers linear and micro-vibration. It comes with loop bands for your arms, and regular resistance bands for your thighs.

Ready to shake, rattle, and roll? See which vibration platforms are our favorites.

Looking for even more options? Check out our other recommendations:

See more of our best product recommendations.

We write about products we think our readers will like. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the supplier.

This is the crème de la crème of vibrating plates, especially if you want to drop pounds. The Rumblex Plus 4D’s frequency goes up to 40 hertz, and according to the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research that’s the perfect number for weight loss. However, this device has a lot more than that to offer. It vibrates in multiple directions, activating your entire frame. The wide base is uncurved for stabilization and joint support. Arm loops for resistance training are included on the machine’s sides, and the anti-grip bottom keeps you from gyrating into another room. A wrist remote allows you to jump between preset programs and increase vibration intensity without pausing your workout.

Promising review:“My husband and I both have back problems, and the use of this on a daily basis has definitely helped with some of the pain. We have also noticed when using it on very low setting later in the day we sleep better. We are using it with resistance training and yoga. I can’t recommend it enough.”

Buy from Amazon, from $114 – Save $30 with coupon on Amazon!

Lymphatic drainage promotes blood flow, improving circulation and helping to prevent fluid buildup. While some people get a massage to make this happen, you can also use the FITPULSE Classic Vibration Plate. Its lowest mode of intensity is designed to detox the system. All you have to do is step on, hold in your core, and let yourself shimmy. Of course, you can take it up a notch and do some squats or even lower crunches. The machine includes not only resistance bands, but also comes with hand bars that are perfect for planks, drips, and semi-reclined moves.

Promising review: “This does an excellent job with moving lymph fluid. I don’t have to wear compression stockings as long as I use this machine. Program nine for 20 minutes.”

You don’t need a lot of space to work out with this machine. The compact Vibration Plate from Best Choice Products offers a combo of high intensity vibration and low oscillating movement that strengthens legs. The loop resistance bands can be used on and off the machine for a multitude of fitness moves, like bicep curls or upright rows. There are 99 speeds and 10 programs to select from. Use before a cardio session, for strength training, or to decompress after a long day.

Promising review: “I have always wanted to start working out and losing a bit of weight, but I have no room for exercise equipment in my home. I was skeptical of this full body vibration platform, but I absolutely love it! After using with the resistance bands I can already feel the burn in my arms.”

Buy from Amazon, $399 – Save $10 with coupon on Amazon!

Remember when I mentioned platforms with multiple vibration patters were best? Well, the Bluefin Fitness 4D Vibration Plate has them all: pivotal oscillating, linear, vertical, and micro. Each targets a different region, making muscles come alive. But the neatest feature is the platform itself: The footrest has magnetic massage balls that activate pressure points, promoting detoxification and relaxation. Not a bad add-on for a sweat session, right? The machine also comes with different resistance bands, and a fitness tracking watch!

Promising review: After the first go using the massage therapy setting, I could feel the tensions easing in my legs and ankles. I now use it for just 10 minutes after every work shift. I no longer have tired aching legs. I’m thrilled with the results!

Not sure a vibration plate can be as satisfying as a jog outside? Let the PowerFit Elite Vibration Platform change your mind. It has three standing positions, each simulating a different workout. Keep your feet in the middle to trigger muscles used in walking. Stepping out further mimics a jog, and placing feet towards the edge is like a run. If you want to keep things simpler, just select from one of the three programs. The machine has up to 99 levels of intensity, and includes a remote for simple operation.

Promising review: “I’m an active 66 years old, but my thighs and hips were bothering me from stiffness and inflammation. After a week, my hips [felt] stronger … I wasn’t looking to lose weight necessarily, but I have firmed up and slimmed my middle.”

Step on up, and prepare to burn. Lifepro’s Rhythm Vibration Plate is one of the best vibrating plates for seniors or those rehabbing from injuries. Its durable base and handlebars give support, while the machine sends gentle waves through the body. There are built-in heart rate sensors, and the dashboard is large enough for you to skip your glasses. Hold the rails as you begin, and then go hands-free or use the arm bands. Just 15 minutes a few days a week will leave you feeling stronger and looking more toned. It also comes with a lifetime warranty!

Promising review: “I love the machine. I feel as though I’ve had a massage after using it. I’m getting stronger, and can feel it [helping] in my advanced yoga practice. I’m 78-years-old, and want to stay strong and healthy until I’m 100!”

If you’re ready to get fit, but need to ease into things, this vibrating plate from FitNation is for you. It includes a seat, which locks into the platform and makes it great for seated moves, like leg raises or side bends. The device offers full body vibration, five programs, and 10 intensity levels. Remove the seat and use it for calf raises, one-legged lunges, or try one of the two different resistance bands for an upper body workout. A 30-day free Echelon Fit membership comes with it if you download the app. It gives the option of customizing your own routine, and though there’s a control panel on the platform, a remote is included.

Promising review: “This really seems to give you a good workout, and you can feel it working your muscles. I love that you can do 10 quick minutes and increase the speed to whatever you want.”

You’ll want to kick off your shoes for this vibration plate. Its platform includes magnets to trigger pressure points as the machine vibrates. This helps promote blood flow, release toxins, and could help weight loss efforts. Vibration speed goes up to 120. Crank it up and do a set of squats — your tush will definitely burn. You’ll probably feel so motivated after your session, you may want to take your workout outside. Fortunately, this device includes a fitness tracker, perfect for on and off the platform. Capable of holding 350 pounds, it’s a great choice no matter where you are in your fitness journey. Resistance bands are included, and there are five preset programs to select from. Hundreds of Amazon customers love it!

Promising review: “After one month of usage, I can clearly see changes in my body. I lost almost 3.3 pounds just by standing on it…the free fitness tracker is the cherry on the cake!”

If you suffer from stiff joints, you know how soothing heat is. What we love about the Waver Enhance Vibration Plate is that its base heats to 107 degrees, making it extra therapeutic. Whether you’re using the included resistance bands or just standing, you’ll feel invigorated as muscles contract and release. The device can be programmed to stay on for 25 minutes, and offers three preset programs. The screen lights up for easy viewing, and with 100 speeds to choose from, you’re sure to feel the vibrations from your head to your toes.

Promising review: “This is an excellent machine. Arthritis pain in my feet and upper thigh and hip areas are gone!”

This vibrating platform isn’t as portable as other models. However, it’s seriously supportive, and perfect if you’re just getting into bodyweight training. Place a foot on the sturdy base and do single-leg lunges or — my personal favorite — standing leg raises. The handlebars offer support as you lower into a squat or perform kickbacks. The machine’s frequency goes up to 60 hertz, so it’s also great if you want to lose weight while strengthening muscle. The large dash has three programs, and there are 50 speeds of vibration. More than 2,000 folks on Amazon give it five stars!

Promising review: “Finally, an exercise machine that works for me! I’m noticing a difference after less than a week of using for 10 minutes a day. The [changes] I’ve noticed are greater energy, muscle toning, a subtle sense of better core strength, and slightly improved mood. I’m 62-years-old and moderately active, but I don’t go to the gym… I’m very pleased with this purchase.”

If you can’t move a muscle without musical motivation, you’ll love the IDEER LIFE Vibration Platform. It has USB port and speakers, so you can listen to your favorite tunes while toning. Select from one of the five preset programs, then choose your vibration speed. Whether you want to just feel it in your lower half or your entire body, there are 99 settings to choose from, so you have options. Keep track of your progress on the base’s display, and control your settings with the remote. Arm bands are included, but what we really love is that the machine is made with lightweight ABS material and nontoxic rubber. Anything that lets us do something good for ourselves and the planet has our vote.

Promising review: This is amazing! I’ve been using it for about a month, and everything has improved. My circulation, balance, muscle strength, and range of motion have dramatically increased. I don’t normally have extremely high stress levels, but I can tell it has helped with every day stress as well. I highly recommend it. My husband even uses it and is seeing benefits.

Part of the A360 Media Women's Service Group. Copyright © A360 Media LLC 2022. All Rights Reserved