(control group) and a WBV exercise plus squat training group (squat training group). Squat training was performed on the rocking platform of a Galileo machine (G-900; Novotec, Pforzheim, Germany) during a 4-minute WBV exercise session. The study period was 6 months. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were transiently prescribed for subjects who needed pain relief because of knee osteoarthritis and/or spondylosis. The WBV exercise and squat training were supervised and performed in the clinic on two days per week. Because the study was strictly conducted by physical therapists, adherence, ie, compliance and persistence with the exercises and training, was 100%. All participants completed the 6-month trial. The physical activity level at baseline was considered to be comparatively low in all participants because none had been laborers or engaged in any regular or leisure sporting activities. Further, no home exercise was prescribed for any of the participants. Informed consent was obtained from each of the subjects prior to participation in the study. The protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Takakuwa Orthopaedic Nagayama Clinic.