Vibration plates get a lot of hype, and most of it is overstated. But for people who are deconditioned or just starting out, the research shows real gains in strength and balance with very little barrier to entry. Here’s an honest look at who they help, who they don’t, and how to use one wisely.

Massage guns got popular faster than the science could keep up. The research supports short-term flexibility gains in large leg muscles, but not much else, and there is no good evidence for using them on the spine, neck, or small muscles. Here is what the studies show, where they fall short, and where you should keep the gun away.

Everyone loves a good story, and I’ve quite a few from my marine science days. Here is a good one of a shark attack I witnessed in Florida back in the 90’s.