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Neuromuscular Responses to Failure vs Non-Failure During Blood Flow Restriction Training in Untrained Females
Christopher E Proppe1, Taylor M Aldeghi1, Paola M Rivera1
1School of Kinesiology and Physical Therapy, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA.
International Journal of Exercise Science
|April 28, 2023
Summary
Blood flow restriction (BFR) during resistance exercise impacts muscular adaptation. Both BFR-75 and BFR-F protocols showed similar neuromuscular fatigue responses, suggesting maximal motor unit excitation is reached quickly.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Neuromuscular Physiology
Background:
- Blood flow restriction (BFR) enhances muscular adaptation during resistance exercise.
- Direct comparisons of BFR's effects on neuromuscular function are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare surface electromyography (sEMG) amplitude and frequency responses between two BFR protocols: BFR-75 (75 repetitions) and BFR-F (sets to failure).
Main Methods:
- Twelve women performed unilateral leg extensions with BFR on one leg (BFR-75) and the other (BFR-F).
- Legs were randomly assigned to BFR-75 or BFR-F protocols.
- Isokinetic, concentric-eccentric leg extensions were performed at 30% maximal strength with sEMG recorded.
Main Results:
- More repetitions were completed in BFR-F set 2 (21.2 ± 7.4) than BFR-75 (14.7 ± 1.2) (p = 0.006).
- Normalized sEMG amplitude increased across the first three sets, then plateaued.
- Normalized sEMG frequency decreased across the first two sets, then plateaued.
Conclusions:
- BFR-75 and BFR-F protocols elicit similar acute neuromuscular fatigue responses.
- Maximal motor unit excitation and metabolic buildup may be achieved within two to three sets of either BFR protocol.
