Impact of Smovey Vibration Versus Dumbbell Resistance on Muscle Activation in Women

BACKGROUND The Smovey Vibroswing exercise device consists of a circular tube containing 4 steel balls, partly covered by a cushioning handle, to strengthen the arm and shoulder muscles. This study aimed to compare the effects of using a Smovey Vibroswing versus dumbbell exercises on muscle activity and body composition of the upper limbs in 23 women under 30 years of age. MATERIAL AND METHODS Subjects were 23 women under the age of 30 years, residing in South Korea, with no musculoskeletal diseases or shoulder surgeries in the past year. Shoulder flexion-extension and abduction-adduction exercises were conducted using Smovey Vibroswing or 2-kg dumbbells. Electromyography (EMG) was used to measure muscle activity in the upper extremities. Data analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA with repeated measures, considering differences significant at P<.05. RESULTS Exercise using the Smovey Vibroswing provided vibratory stimulation that improved muscle activity, coordination, and stability in the upper arm muscles of women under 30 years of age. Muscle activation in specific muscles, such as the anterior deltoid, biceps brachii, and brachioradialis, was significantly higher during Smovey exercises compared to dumbbell exercises (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS The vibratory stimulation of Smovey was found to improve upper-limb muscle activity and positively affect stability and coordination in women. These findings suggest that Smovey can serve as a safer, more controllable alternative for resistance exercise. This study highlights the need for standardized Smovey exercise programs, especially tailored for varying ages and fitness levels.