Evaluation of the Effects of Systemic Vibration Therapy on Thermogenesis, Cardiovascular Parameters, Endocrine-inflammatory Markers, and Physical-functional Performance in Adults With Obesity.

Obesity is characterized by the excessive accumulation of body fat and triggers systemic impacts. Currently, it affects 1 in 8 people worldwide, with projections of generating global costs of US$ 3 trillion per year by 2030. In Brazil, prevalence may reach 30.4%. Central obesity is associated with chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, metabolic dysfunctions, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which are the leading causes of death globally. Low-grade inflammation and alterations in the autonomic nervous system also exacerbate cardiovascular risk. In this context, brown adipose tissue, with its thermogenic function, has been studied as a potential ally in body mass control. Excess fat combined with muscle mass loss accentuates functional impairments. Although physical exercise is essential, low adherence among individuals with obesity requires viable alternatives. Systemic vibration therapy (SVT), which utilizes mechanical vibrations through vibrating platforms, emerges as a promising strategy, with evidence of effects on reducing body fat, increasing muscle strength, and modulating hormonal and neuromuscular responses. However, conclusive evidence regarding the best protocols is lacking, justifying further studies.This study aims to evaluate the effects of SVT on thermogenesis, cardiovascular, endocrine-inflammatory parameters, and the physical-functional performance of adults with obesity by applying different protocols. Individuals aged 18 to 59 of both sexes, with a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² and WHR ≥ 0.50, will be included. Recruitment will take place at HUPE, PPC/UERJ, the general community, and social media. The sample size calculation indicated a need for 30 participants, accounting for potential dropouts. Personal information will be collected, and biochemical, endocrine-inflammatory, vascular, cardiovascular risk, body composition, muscle strength, electromyography, physical-functional tests, eating behavior, quality of life, cognition, sleep, vital signs, and perceived exertion assessments will be performed.Interventions will occur twice a week, with a 72-hour interval, for 6 and 12 weeks. Two types of vibrating platforms will be used: vertical displacement (VVP) and side-alternating displacement (AVP). Three protocols will be applied: the GAVP will use the AVP with a frequency of 30 Hz and an amplitude of 2.5 mm or 5.0 mm; the GVVP will use the VVP, also at 30 Hz with "low" amplitude; and the SG (Sham Group) will perform the same movements with the platform turned off, simulating the vibration sound. In all groups, participants will be barefoot, in a static squat with knees at $50^\circ$, for 1 minute of exposure followed by 1 minute of rest, repeated 15 times, totaling 29 minutes per session.