This is the third part in a series about understanding research articles. See Part I here.

Method(s)

The method section of the research report should clearly explain how the study was conducted. However, for the layperson, this will be the most difficult section to read. The methods section may be divided into subsequent sub-headers, such as: participants (subjects), equipment, procedure(s), and data analysis. [Read more...]

This is the second part in a series about understanding research articles. See Part I here.

What is a Research Article?

A research article is one that is published by a peer-reviewed, academic journal. An academic journal is a periodical where researchers publish their work. [Read more...]

This is the first part of a Guide to Reading Research Articles.

Research articles can be very difficult to read. Reading research is a skill that takes quite some time to be proficient at. This is why many people will read the abstract or conclusions of a study apply them with a broad brush, which is inherently invalid.

When attempting to read and understand an article, remember to read the article as a whole. Also, the authors have written it with the audience being scholars and colleagues. Therefore, a certain level of basic knowledge is assumed. Try not to become frustrated when an article to too complicated. You will learn, in time and with much practice, to extract the important aspects of an article without getting lost in the jargon. [Read more...]

Here are the findings from a recent detailed 8 month study on a pivotal machine (Gallileo 2000).

1. The study found significantly positive results for Bone Mass Density increase in post menopausal women using pivotal as compared to lineal machines. (4% increase at the hip;other 8 month studies with lineal machines with variety of protocols had given no significant increment in Bone Mass Density – findings of Torvinen et al, 2003).
2. It also found that this Whole Body Vibration (WBV) protocol was superior than 55 minutes of walking + 5 minutes stretching 3 times a week for developing Bone Mass Density.
3. It found this WBV protocol superior to walking for developing a better balance in the subjects (29% for the WBV group and Nil for the walking group).

[Read more...]