Effect of Blood Flow-Restricted Strength Training on Body Composition: a Randomized Controlled Study of Patients with Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. Low-intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction is an effective strategy for increasing muscle mass and strength, as well as reducing excess subcutaneous and visceral fat deposition. In recent years, this method has been used in various populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of low-intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction on anthropometric parameters and body composition in men with metabolic syndrome.
 AIM. To evaluate the effect of low-intensity strength training with blood flow restriction on anthropometric indices and body composition in men with metabolic syndrome.
 MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study involved 60 untrained men (mean age 38.7 ± 5.6 years) who meet the criteria for metabolic syndrome due to health reasons. Participants were divided into three groups according to resistance training regimens: low-intensity resistance with blood flow restriction; high-intensity training; low-intensity training without blood flow restriction. Before and after 12 weeks of training, the groups were assessed for body mass index, fat mass, visceral fat area, musculoskeletal mass, waist circumference.
 RESULTS. There was a statistically significant decrease in fat mass, visceral fat area, waist circumference and an increase in musculoskeletal mass (p 0.05) in the groups of low-intensity strength training with blood flow restriction and high-intensity strength training. In the parameters of men belonging to the group of low-intensity strength training without blood flow restriction, no statistically significant changes were found (p 0.05).
 CONCLUSION. In summary, the study found that low-intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction effectively altered the body composition of men with metabolic syndrome.