Entertainment Ireland

29 January 2010 (Fitness)

Words: Alicia Coyle

So, there is a new kid on the block. Well, not very new but it's new enough that not many of us folk have had the chance to check it out yet. Well, I got a call one afternoon, (and am I glad I picked up the phone that day), to see if anyone here in Entertainment.ie towers wished to try out this revolutionary piece of equipment. In need of being kicked into shape, I dutifully said yes.

Here's a general bit of information on the Power Plate itself. The official definition is that it is a premium vibration device that stimulates the bodies natural response to vibration. These vibrations send waves of energy through the body, which then cause your muscles to contract. It is said that the workout, which consists of a number of different exercises lasting 30-45 seconds and lasts a total of 30 minutes, is just as good, if not better, then an hour pumping at your local gym.

So, off I went for my first class. Excited, I thought, 'This is going to be great.' A nice easy way to tone up, lose some inches and I don't have to sweat it out on a treadmill. Happy days. Well, I shouldn't have been so eager. I soon realised that this took some determination and stamina, both of which I didn't have much of. As I joined the small class of six, I had a trainer to myself showing me the ropes. Everyone made it look so easy. As I tried my first position which was a leg squat, I began to giggle with the vibrations, then came a slight tension in the thighs, then the feeling that they were about to cramp, then the burning sensation and finally the notion that I wouldn't be able to walk for a few days. Next, the press ups... Oh God, what have I got myself in to. However, as I was told, it would take time to get used to it, but in the end, it would be worth it. Finally, I was instructed to lie down and relax as the machine massaged my weary legs. I was advised, ladies this one is for you, that by doing this, the Power Plate can reduce cellulite too. As I sat back into the car and tried my best to drive home with jelly like legs, I soon felt a slight urge to go back again. These were the endorphins kicking in.

And so it went on. Three classes a week for four weeks. As every class ended, I loved the Power Plate even more, and honestly I looked forward to my next one. I monitored myself to see if there was any difference in my muscles and in my weight each week. Although there wasn't a dramatic change, I did feel that I was becoming slightly toned, I was able to withstand all the exercises and I was feeling much better within myself. Gladly a few pounds were lost, but that would increase the more I continued. I attended the BodySmart Studio in Mount Merrion and the staff there were friendly and courteous, and were always on hand to assist you while on the plate. It was never a hassle to cancel or reschedule classes, this in turn made the entire experience fantastic.

There were a few cons for the Power Plate, however. It is only based in a few dedicated Power Plate gyms in the city. Classes are to be booked in advance; therefore you can't just show up at any time of the day. But, these too can be benefits. All classes are small, which means that you can get more of a 'one to one' with the instructors. They are able to monitor you while you work out and will correct your body position, if needs be, so you can get maximum benefit. Also, this genius piece of technology is a great way for athletes to train and work purely on building their muscles strength and their body's endurance.

In the end, would I recommend the Power Plate? Absolutely, 100 percent, undoubtedly... yes. It is hard at the beginning but stick with it and you will reap the benefits. It may not be the quickest way to tone, but it sure as hell gets you on the right track, and soon you'll be amazed that you can do 30 sit ups without even blinking an eye.

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To get more information on the Power Plate you can log onto www.bodysmart.ie or call 1800 700 777 to speak to a BodySmart representative. The BodySmart studios are located in Mount Merrion, Grand Canal Square, Marriot Hotel Asbourne and the Spainish Parade in Galway.
 

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