Acute Hemodynamic And Myocardial Responses During Blood Flow Restriction (bfr) Training And A Treadmill Walking Protocol

PURPOSE: To determine the acute hemodynamic and myocardial responses during Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training and a treadmill walking protocol and determine the impact of BFR on cardiovascular workload. METHODS: Thirteen participants (mean age 25 ± 2.81 years) completed a 9-minute treadmill walking session at a constant speed of 3.0 mph and 0.0% grade under two conditions: with and without BFR applied to the proximal thigh. Measurements were taken at rest, during exercise, and recovery. Dependent variables included heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), rate pressure product (RPP), and rate of perceived exertion (RPE). RESULTS: Exercise variables were analyzed with a mixed two-way ANOVA. Significant increases were observed in all measured variables under the BFR condition compared to the non-BFR condition. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were noted at 3, 6, and 9 minutes into the walking protocol as well as 3 minutes post exercise in HR, SBP, RPP, and RPE. DBP and MAP were significantly different at 3, 6, and 9 minutes into the walking protocol, but were not significantly different at 3 minutes post exercise. Heart rate (p<,0.004), Systolic Blood Pressure (p < 0.002), Rate Pressure Product, (p < 0.002), and Mean Arterial Pressure (p < 0.001). Specifically, the BFR condition resulted in a markedly higher myocardial and hemodynamic workload, approximating a two MET increase in intensity. CONCLUSION: BFR training leads to significantly higher cardiovascular and myocardial demands during treadmill walking, indicating an increased workload compared to exercise without BFR. These findings highlight the need for further research to explore normative values and fully understand the risks and benefits of BFR training in fitness and rehabilitation contexts.