Power Plate gets modern makeover in classroom setting

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Fifteen years ago, vibration sensation Power Plate came to America, offering to change the way we or even stars workout.

The machine was originally designed as a medical device to rehab Russian cosmonauts' bone and muscle atrophy after spending time in space.

"The machine is actually moving up and down, front to back, and right to left. You're having to stabilize every muscle in your body in order to stay on the machine," said Rachel Blumberg, owner of Platefit.

Alia Anais, an instructor at Platefit, said the machine contracts your muscles 30 to 50 times per second.

That's not achievable in other workout settings. Studies indicate vibration training increases circulation, strength and flexibility in a host of age groups.

Faster results can mean a shorter workout time. A 27-minute Power Plate class fits in a variety of different workout formats. Classes average about $25 a session.

"We offer boot camp fit, we offer dance fit, ballet fit, boxing, kick boxing, sport fit and a cellulite class, yoga stretch," Anais described.

"As a working mother of two, I found that in half an hour, I could get just as solid of a workout as I was getting in an hour," said Jessica Postigo of Los Angeles.

The vibration is initially jarring, but the varied movements on the plate's pad help users overcome their fear.

"We kind of let them know, 'Don't worry if you feel tingly and itchy, it's just the blood flow,'" Anais said, adding that vibration settings can be adjusted.

Blumberg said the Power Plate is also good for those who have MS, Parkinson's disease, lupus or arthritis.

However, using a Power Plate is not allowed if you are pregnant. So mom-to-be Blumberg is taking time out.

Power Plates or other vibration copy cats are found in many gyms, but they're pricey. Platefit appears to be the first studio to try group classes.

"Retail, these run around anywhere from $12,000 - $15,000 depending on the model," Blumberg said.