The Acute Effects of Ischemic Preconditioning on Power and Sprint Performance

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) has been shown to induce positive effects on skeletal muscle resulting in enhanced physical performance. Data display that IPC positively impacts both aerobic and anaerobic performance. However, there is inconclusive data exemplifying IPC's effects on power and sprint performance. We hypothesized 15 minutes of bilateral lower limb IPC, applied 25-45 minutes prior to power and sprint activity, would enhance power and sprint performance.

Using a randomized crossover design, 14 NCAA Division II athletes received IPC (100 percent occlusion) and sham (50 mmHg) treatments followed by either a 0 minute or a 20 minute rest. A Delfi Personalized Tourniquet System (PTS) for blood flow restriction with an internal doppler radar was used to occlude blood flow to the lower extremities. Followed by IPC treatment, power and sprint performance was assessed using a vertical jump, reactive strength index (RSI), broad jump, flying 10m dash, and pro-agility. Each of the fourteen subjects in the experimental group received all four protocols.

Using an ANOVA, no statistical significance was found between the type of treatment (i.e., sham 0 min, sham 20 min, IPC 0 min, IPC 20 min) and the performance tests: vertical jump (p=0.97), RSI (p=0.73), broad jump (p=0.98), flying 10m dash (p=0.99), and pro-agility (p=0.90). In addition, no statistical significance was found between the order of treatments and the performance tests (p=0.97).

Despite previous research suggesting IPC enhances anaerobic and anaerobic performance, the current results indicate IPC doesn't significantly enhance power and sprint performance in highly trained athletes.