The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a vibration training protocol and a conventional strength training program consisting of similar exercises on knee extensors and flexors strength and postural sway in middle-aged women. 38 women were randomly assigned into a vibration group (n = 12, static and dynamic exercises on a vibration plate, frequency 15 to 25 Hz, amplitude 2 to 12.8 cm), a strength group (n = 16, same exercises without vibration) and a control group (n = 10). Both experimental groups trained for 12 weeks (3 sessions/w). Static balance was assessed in 3 tasks of increasing difficulty: normal quiet stance, sharpened tandem, and one-legged stance. Postural sway was evaluated using the Centre of Pressure variations in the anterior-posterior and medio-lateral direction. Eccentric and concentric strength of knee extensors and flexors was recorded using a Cybex dynamometer. After vibration training, postural sway significantly decreased in both directions for the vibration group in all tasks (p < 0.05), whereas no significant differences were observed for the other groups. Isokinetic strength significantly (p < 0.05) increased for both experimental groups at selected angular velocities. It was concluded that side-alternating vibration could have beneficial effects on static balance control for middle-aged women. Gains in isokinetic strength were quite similar for both experimental groups.

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