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Blood Flow Restriction Training for Athletes: A Systematic Review
Ryan J Wortman1, Symone M Brown2, Ian Savage-Elliott2
1School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.
The American Journal of Sports Medicine
|November 16, 2020
Summary
Blood flow restriction (BFR) training enhances strength, muscle size, and athletic performance in athletes. Combining BFR with resistance training optimizes results and promotes athlete health.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a technique using a cuff to restrict venous return while maintaining arterial flow.
- This method is increasingly explored as a supplement to traditional training regimens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the literature on BFR training in healthy athletes.
- To evaluate the efficacy of BFR as an adjunct to resistance training.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted.
- Studies were identified via PubMed and OVID Medline, with reference list analysis.
- Inclusion criteria focused on randomized controlled trials of BFR in athletes' resistance training.
Main Results:
- Ten studies met the inclusion criteria from an initial 237 articles.
- Significant strength increases were observed in 78% of studies using BFR.
- Fifty percent of studies reported increased muscle size, and 75% showed improved sports performance markers with BFR.
Conclusions:
- BFR training shows promise for improving strength, muscle size, and sports performance in athletes.
- Integrating BFR with resistance training may enhance athletic outcomes and health.
- Further research is needed to determine optimal BFR pressure for maximizing training benefits.
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