Effects of whole-body vibration training on resting blood pressure in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.
Yan Pan, Ping Luo, Binbin Jia et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis assessed whole-body vibration training (WBVT) and resting blood pressure in adults, pooling 14 randomised controlled trials with 490 participants. Compared with control conditions, WBVT was associated with reductions in systolic blood pressure (WMD = -6.57 mmHg, 95% CI [-8.84, -4.29]; p < 0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (WMD = -3.01 mmHg, 95% CI [-4.32, -1.71]; p < 0.01). Subgroup analyses found larger reductions among participants with higher baseline blood pressure, those overweight or obese, and those undertaking protocols with combined movement patterns.
Key findings
- Across 14 RCTs and 490 adults, WBVT reduced systolic blood pressure by WMD = -6.57 mmHg (95% CI [-8.84, -4.29]; p < 0.01).
- Diastolic blood pressure fell by WMD = -3.01 mmHg (95% CI [-4.32, -1.71]; p < 0.01).
- In participants with higher baseline blood pressure, subgroup estimates were -11.34 mmHg for systolic and -6.15 mmHg for diastolic pressure.
- Combined-movement protocols were associated with reductions of -7.12 mmHg in systolic and -3.30 mmHg in diastolic pressure.
Why it matters
Resting blood pressure is a clinically relevant cardiovascular risk factor, and the pooled reductions suggest WBVT may merit further evaluation as an exercise-based approach. The subgroup results indicate that baseline pressure, weight status, and movement protocol may influence the observed response. These findings are relevant to considering exercise options, but do not establish effects on cardiovascular events or long-term outcomes.
What to keep in mind
The authors call for further high-quality RCTs; the pooled evidence comprises 14 trials and 490 participants.