
A Oscillating/Pivotal vs Linear/Vertical Machine
There are basically two different types of vibration machines, and it’s important to understand the differences between the two, especially if you’re looking to buy one for home use. Note: There is actually a third type of vibration machine – but the third–sonar/sound vibration–costs $7,500 to $15,000 so we’ll leave that one out for now.
The two main types of vibration machines are:
- Linear: Also referred to as piston or tri-planar vibration; the popular Power Plate fitness machine uses this type of vibration system.
- Oscillating: Also referred to as pivotal or Triangular Oscillation System (T.O.S.), this vibration can be compared to the action of a see-saw or a teeter-totter. The Noblerex K1 Platinum uses this type of vibration.
Linear / Piston/ Tri-Planar Machines
While many whole body vibration machine companies claim their platforms move in “three dimensions”, these are essentially linear machines. Actually, unless the machine has a fulcrum and an alternating pattern of movement, we’ll refer to the machine as a linear vibration machine.
In fact, any vibration machine that is not pivotal or oscillating needs to move in a slightly three-dimensional manner, otherwise the pure vertical vibrations in the single direction (up and down) would act on the body like a pneumatic drill or jack hammer – an action associated with conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. This up and down, piston-like vibration is the same that truck drivers receive when sitting for long periods, which can cause painful back problems. In addition, the jarring motion can cause damage to joints, ligaments, and tendons.
A linear vibration machine imitates a jump reflex in the user. The muscles on both sides of the body are contracted at the same time resulting in a very high impact on the body – up to 6X (or 600%) the body weight of the user. Repeating this sort of impact makes certain postures on the platform unsuitable, and those with joint or spine issues typically find this muscle contraction uncomfortable or painful. Also, under a linear pattern of movement not all muscles are engaged – it is mainly the larger muscles of the body, so you’re not getting the all-over body conditioning that will bring you the results you want.
Linear vibration training is effective for improving “jump height”, which is why it’s popular with football and basketball teams. However, as a non-sports professional, you’ll likely find more benefits from oscillating/pivotal vibration training.

Movement of the Noblerex K1
Oscillating / Pivotal/ T.O.S. Machines
The original Galileo machine, a precursor to the Noblerex K1 that helped the Russians set world records in space and athletics, used an oscillating, or pivotal, vibration system. More research has been done on oscillating whole body vibration than any other type of vibration. Oscillating machines can support more weight, have less impact on the body, are easier on the organs, can keep the spine more supple and loose, and are generally more affordable in price.
Oscillating/pivotal vibration makes a lot more sense, too. Your body is designed around your spinal column. When you walk, you have to balance your weight from left to right like a teeter-toter. When using an oscillating vibration machine, the affected muscles contract alternately, much like when you’re walking, so the same muscles on both sides of the body are never engaged at the same time. A side-alternating vibration is an extremely important component to improving balance too.
The Triangular Oscillating System (T.O.S.) used by the Noblerex K1 creates a pleasant rocking motion that causes the brain to tell the muscles of the body to actively contract to maintain equilibrium (balance), creating a therapeutic, muscle-toning and strengthening workout. This unique system provides all the benefits of whole body vibration with minimal risk of damage to the joints and tendons, making it a safe and efficient source of exercise, wellness, and therapy regardless of your age.
While both systems create an involuntary stretch reflex in the muscles, the oscillatory vibration of the Noblerex K1 offers safety advantages that linear vibration training cannot achieve, even from a simple standing posture. You’ll find oscillating platforms far more comfortable than vertical vibration platforms, too.

When people first step off the Noblerex K1 they frequently report feeling lighter. This is a result of their standing weight being distributed throughout a larger area of the spine, and also in greater balance over their left and right side.
A Spinal Analysis Machine used by chiropractors and other practitioners for postural exams involves twin scales that show the difference in weight distribution between the right and left sides of the body. Incredibly, spending just a few minutes on the Noblerex K1 can help reduce imbalance in standing weight by up to 100%.
For more testimonials, check out our testimonial page on our site, and don’t hesitate to call us with any questions you might have.
No Tag