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Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Cardiopulmonary Function and Body Composition: A Systematic Review with
Kun Yang1, Chen Soon Chee1, Johan Bin Abdul Kahar2
1Department of Sports Studies, Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia.
Journal of Human Kinetics
|March 2, 2026
Summary
Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) moderately enhances pulmonary function and muscle hypertrophy in athletes. However, it shows no significant impact on cardiac function or general body measurements. Optimal benefits are seen in younger, trained individuals with specific training protocols.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) is increasingly utilized by athletes and active individuals.
- Its effects on cardiopulmonary function and body composition require comprehensive synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis investigating the impact of BFRT on cardiopulmonary function and body composition.
- To synthesize evidence from high-quality studies involving athletes and active participants.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search adhering to PRISMA guidelines across four databases.
- Methodological quality assessed using the PEDro scale.
- Meta-analysis and subgroup analyses performed using RevMan 5.4 software.
Main Results:
- BFRT significantly improved pulmonary function (ES = 0.81–0.88) and muscle hypertrophy (ES = 0.73–0.74).
- No significant improvements were observed in cardiac function (ES = -0.30–0.35) or anthropometric measures (ES = 0.02–0.04).
- Subgroup analyses indicated moderator variables significantly influenced outcomes (ES = 0.55–1.74).
Conclusions:
- BFRT positively influences pulmonary function and muscle hypertrophy in athletes and active individuals.
- Cardiac function and anthropometric measures were not significantly affected by BFRT.
- Optimal BFRT benefits were observed in young, trained participants with shorter intervention durations and lower frequencies.
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