The tripod ensures only that especially rapid turning movements are performed smoothly and without torsion. It filters any bumps and vibrations that are already inevitable in subdued transition. But then the pendulum is too short and installed no suspension. Anyone who thinks that one acquires a Steadicam-like product for the mobile sector will be disappointed. Here the 2 or better 3-axis sprung settled motors products must take drastic action, but currently (Jan 2015), almost all of niche manufacturers come (Just enter "GoPro Gimbal tripod" in the search with part of inferior quality from China, just mostly sold Feiyu ).
Conclusion: Anyone else used a tripod, it may try. I have achieved better results in more flexible handling, as I have placed my monopod tripod (eg B00CKPCJNO) fully extended over the arm, have made and balanced the camera mount the GoPro on "down". There are about this technique also several videos on the internet - Just enter "how to film Steady With Pole".