Good vibrations at Activity Haven
There’s a new type of exercise studio in the city that crams an hour’s worth of workout into 10 minutes.
VT Studio celebrated its grand opening in Activity Haven on Tuesday.
The studio has eight vibrational technology (VT) machines and is open to the public.
The machines look similar to stair climbers, but with a flat plate. Users stand on the plate, which then vibrates from side-to-side to simulate walking.
The VT machines can be set to various speeds, with different outcomes achieved depending on the pace. For example, a high speed is good for circulation and massage and a lower speed is meant for toning and tightening.
Heather Leveck is the interim executive director of Activity Haven.
She said that in addition to weight loss, VT also offers a number of health benefits.
It flushes out the lymphatic system, removes toxins from the body, improves digestive issues, helps build bone density, increases metabolism, and enhances balance, she said.
Leveck said VT is ideal for anyone, especially the “busy person.”
“Somebody who can’t make it to the gym on a regular basis but can find 10 minutes in their day to drop in and get some exercise and feel better,” she said.
However, because it’s effortless, it’s also great for anyone with joint pain, arthritis or osteoporosis.
“It’s really geared towards everybody,” she said, with one exception: People with pacemakers can’t use it.
Activity Haven purchased the VT machines last month so they could offer an alternative way for members and the public to keep fit.
The non-profit seniors’ centre is located in a former public school on Barnardo Ave. and offers more than 85 programs for people over 50. It has about 1,400 members.
But VT Studio is open to all ages and non-members.
“We believe in the power of vibrational technology and feel everybody should have a chance to give it a try,” said Leveck.
She’s experienced VT’s weight loss benefits firsthand, losing 17 pounds and 22 inches in six months.
VT Studio is offering a free oneweek trial for anyone who’s interested it trying it out. Activity Haven members can use the equipment for $2 per session and it’s $4 for non-members. Monthly passes are available for $30.
NOTE: Activity Haven is located at 180 Barnardo Ave. The phone number is 705-876-1670