Bloodflow Restriction Training Effects on Blood Pressure

Bloodflow restriction training (B2RT) is linked to musculoskeletal health improvements and vascular adaptations including blood pressure (BP). B2RT involves restricting arterial blood flow and diminished venous drainage restricted in working muscles which affects metabolic waste removal and vascular plasticity. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate if B2RT alters BP.METHODS: Recreationally fit college-aged participants (n=42, 20±1.7 years, 25±4 BMI, upper SBP 117/±11mmHg, DBP 72±7mmHg; lower SBP 126±15mmHg, DBP 75±7mmHg) were recruited through campus announcements and word of mouth. Participants in the B2RT group completed 7-weeks of training with squats, Romanian deadlifts, bench rows, and bench presses with restriction at 50% of occlusion pressure and 20% of one-repetition maximum, 3 times a week, 4 sets of 30, 15, 15, and 15 reps.RESULTS: No significant differences were seen in upper or lower blood pressures, but male B2RT group showed significant reduction in lower occlusion pressure than a control group (-9.12%±2.88% vs. 9.99%±3.37%, p CONCLUSION: This difference might be explained through segmental body composition changes in the males who participated in the training. Significant proportional changes in tissue make-up of the extremity including increased lean and decreased fat could alter the occlusion mechanics. This aids in the conclusion that blood flow restriction reduces lower extremity occlusion pressure which could be associated with decreased risk of cardiovascular disease.