Impact of whole-body vibration on anthropometric measurements and body composition in overweight and obese university students: a randomized controlled trial

By
Rokaia A. Toson
Khloud Al-Ruwailiy
Raghad Al-Sarhany
Zeinab A. Ali
Hadeel Alsirhani
Nabeela Kashif
Rabab A. Mohamed
Amany E. Abd-Eltawab
Samaher Alowaydhah
Engi E. Sarhan
Mustafa Shukry
Eman Mohammed Elnashar
Hanan Hassan Alshehri
Rasha Hamed Al-Serwi
Mohamed Mahmoud Abdelfattah Abdelrahman
Nesma M. Allam
June 11, 2026
0 min

Frontiers In Medicine

Overview

This study evaluates the impact of whole-body vibration (WBV) therapy on body composition and anthropometric metrics in overweight and obese university students. Results indicate significant reductions in body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in the WBV group compared to the control group, suggesting WBV's potential in addressing central fat distribution.

Background

The rising prevalence of overweight and obesity among university students poses significant health risks, including increased susceptibility to various chronic diseases. Identifying effective and safe exercise modalities for this demographic is crucial for promoting healthier lifestyles. Whole-body vibration (WBV) therapy emerges as a potential alternative to traditional exercise, particularly for those who may struggle with conventional physical activity.

Data Highlights

Outcome Measure	WBV Group	Sham Group	P-value
BMI	Decrease	No Change	0.028
Waist Circumference	Decrease	No Change	0.003
Body Fat Percentage	No Change	No Change	0.884
Visceral Fat	No Change	No Change	0.290
Lean Mass	No Change	No Change	0.199

Key Findings

WBV therapy led to significant reductions in BMI (p = 0.028) and waist circumference (p = 0.003).
No significant changes were observed in body fat percentage, visceral fat, or lean mass between groups.
WBV may preferentially affect central fat distribution rather than overall body composition.
The study involved a randomized controlled trial design with 30 participants aged 18-25.
WBV was administered alongside selected exercises three times per week over six weeks.

Clinical Implications

WBV therapy may serve as a beneficial adjunct to traditional exercise regimens for overweight and obese university students, particularly in reducing central adiposity. Healthcare providers should consider incorporating WBV into comprehensive lifestyle interventions aimed at improving body composition in this population.

Conclusion

The findings support the use of whole-body vibration as a viable option for improving anthropometric measurements in overweight and obese university students. Further research is warranted to explore its long-term effects on overall body composition.